Why your bedroom feels off—and how to instantly fix it
8th Apr 2025
We’ve all been there, your bedroom starts out as somewhere you want to be, an escape from the world.
But over time, the world starts to encroach, it slowly morphs into a dumping ground for laundry, half-finished books, and that one chair buried under a pile of clothes that you’re not 100% sure are dirty, clean, or somewhere in between. Instead of feeling like a place to relax, it becomes a space you avoid.
The good news? You don’t need a full renovation to bring it back to life. With a few simple, affordable tweaks, you can create a bedroom that feels put-together, stylish, and uniquely “you.”
Let’s break down how.
Common Decorating Problems (And How to Fix Them)
Before we get into solutions, let’s address the common mistakes that make a room feel unfinished or uninspired:
● You feel like decorating isn’t worth your time – So your space looks like you never really tried
● No defined style – Everything feels mismatched but not in a cool, curated way
● Good elements, bad execution – You’ve got some beautiful pieces, but there’s something just not quite right. Maybe your colour palette is off, everything is too matchy-matchy, or your room is drowning in clutter
Sound familiar? Let’s fix it.
1. Define Your Style (Without Overcomplicating It)
Your bedroom should feel like you—not a showroom or a trend that’ll be out of style next year. Instead of trying to fit into a single design label like “Scandi” or “Minimalist,” focus on what makes you feel comfortable and inspired.
Here’s an easy way to get started:
✔ Think about what you love – Do you prefer calming neutrals or rich, cosy tones? Soft and relaxed bedding or crisp and tailored? Do you want your space to feel light and airy or warm and cocoon-like?
✔ Find inspiration – Flip through home magazines, scroll Pinterest or Instagram, or take note of colours and textures that catch your eye (even in nature, fashion, or art)
✔ Pull it together – Jot down a few words that describe your ideal space. Maybe it’s “calm and cosy, fresh and inviting,” or “warm, layered and artsy.”
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Final Step: Choose a Simple Colour Palette:
A well-chosen colour palette makes your bedroom feel effortlessly put together. An easy formula to follow is:
● Main colour (60%): The base of your room, like walls, large furniture, or your main bedding colour
● Secondary colour (30%): Adds depth and contrast—think throws, cushions, or an accent chair
● Accent colour (10%): The fun pop! This could be a piece of art, a decorative vase, or even fresh flowers
Example Look:
● Relaxed & Timeless: Soft beige, warm white, and natural textures like linen and wood
● Fresh & Serene: Sage green, earthy neutrals, and plenty of soft layers
● Cosy & Inviting: Deep charcoal, caramel tones, and plush, textured fabrics
By keeping your choices simple and intentional, your space will naturally come together in a way that feels stylish and personal.
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2. Make Your Bed the Star of the Show
Your bed is the focal point of your room, so let’s dress it like it deserves.
● For a luxe hotel vibe: Choose crisp, high-quality sheets like Mille 1000 thread count—soft, smooth, and effortlessly elegant
● For a relaxed, lived-in feel: Opt for the Vintage Softwash range—perfectly rumpled with that effortlessly cool aesthetic
● For an eclectic mix-and-match look: Layer in patterned Modella for depth and interest
● For a little extra cosiness: Try adding a coverlet for an easy and instant upgrade to your current bedding
Want to mix it up? Play with textures (colour vs stripes), mix and match pillowcases, or try tonal layering—shades of the same colour for a sophisticated, layered look.
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3. Get the Other Elements Right
Texture is Key
Texture isn’t just about adding a fluffy throw—it’s about mixing different materials to create warmth and depth. A room that’s all smooth and shiny can feel too cold, while too much texture can be overwhelming. The trick? Balance.
● Mix soft with structured – Think crisp cotton bedding with a chunky knit throw, or a smooth wooden bedside table with a textured linen lamp shade
● Break up flat surfaces – A rug, woven basket, or textured ceramic piece can stop a space from feeling too plain
● Get the Scale & Proportion Right – A few small tweaks can make a huge difference in how your room feels:
● Curtains hung too low – Mount them high and wide to make ceilings feel taller and the room feel bigger
● Artwork placed awkwardly – Hang art so the centre sits at eye level or just above. If doing a gallery wall, aim for the cluster centre to be at eye level
● Tiny rugs – A rug should sit under at least two-thirds of your bed for a balanced look
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4. Light: The Secret to a Cosy, Inviting Space
The “big light” should NEVER be your main source of lighting—especially in the bedroom. Overhead lights are harsh and unflattering, but don’t worry, it’s an easy fix!
✨ Use multiple light sources – Bedside lamps, wall sconces, floor lamps, candles—they all contribute to a warm, layered glow
✨ Opt for warm bulbs – Cool white light feels sterile, while warm light creates a soft, inviting atmosphere
✨ Style your lighting – Lamps and sconces aren’t just practical—they’re also decor pieces!
Pro Tip: Candles instantly add cosiness without breaking the bank
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5. The Styling Secret: Balance Personality & Simplicity
Too much clutter? Your room feels chaotic.
Too minimal? It lacks warmth.
The key is curated styling—decorate with things you love, but don’t let them take over.
✔ Declutter & Store Smart – Use stylish wardrobe organisers, storage baskets, and bedside tables with drawers to keep surfaces clean
✔ Find art that speaks to you – Mix paintings, photography, and sketches for a collected-over-time feel
✔ Cushions: The Secret Weapon – A well-styled bed isn’t complete without them! Layer different sizes, mix textures, and use complementary colours for an effortless, designer feel
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At the end of the day, your bedroom should be a place you want to spend time in. By defining your style, choosing a cohesive colour palette, nailing your bedding, and getting the details right, you can transform your space into something that feels designed—but still functional and still “you.”
Ready to refresh your bedroom? Explore Canningvale’s timeless bed linen & decor essentials here.