35 Bedroom Design Do's and Don'ts

Even the most decorated houses often have a dirty little secret: a dull and dreary (or cluttered and chaotic) bedroom. Because it's a private space, this room is sometimes the last to get our decorating attention. However, this is a place you should love to spend time in, an indulgent oasis and welcoming haven from the stresses of the day. "The bedroom should not be overlooked; in fact, it should be the best room in the house," interior designer Shelly Riehl David asserts. "You deserve to come home to a beautiful, relaxing space where you can close the door to the world."

Color is a powerful design tool, and should absolutely be used in the bedroom. But experts advise opting for restful shades and a soothing, monochromatic palette to keep the mood subdued. Soft greens, blues and lavenders create a feeling of calmness and serenity, while rich, lush hues like persimmon, brown and amber envelop you in cozy warmth.

Save the bright reds, yellows and oranges for other rooms. "Anything too vibrant will distract from the relaxing feeling you're trying to create," says Aimee Kim, a Los Angeles-based interior designer known for her luxe, yet peaceful, bedrooms. "Use toned-down versions of your favorite colors in the bedroom." That might mean choosing mauve instead of eggplant, or pumpkin instead of tangerine.

Don't lie in bed gazing up at a bland, blank ceiling. Add an eye-catching hue to visually lower the ceiling and give the space a feeling of comfort and intimacy. Or try this: designer Shelly Riehl David likes to paint the ceiling a slightly lighter version of the wall color. "Ask the paint store to knock down the color 20 percent for the ceiling," she suggests.