Creating Dreamy Bedroom Spaces on a Budget

Published: 21/11/2010 by Patsy Hamilton for HomeImprovement411.ca

It is possible to create dreamy bedroom spaces on a budget. Often, furnishings are the most expensive part. If your existing furniture is in good condition, the best way to save is to work with it.

There are many things you can do to existing bedroom furniture to improve the appearance or comfort. Remember that an investment in a good mattress pays off in terms of improved sleep and good health.

For those who have trouble sleeping, doctors often recommend improving sleep hygiene. That’s an interesting term that has to do with the sounds, lighting and even the smells in your bedroom.

Even people who are not insomniacs will find that they sleep better when their mattresses are in good shape, their rooms are quieter and their lighting is softer. Assuming you have a good mattress, the first step in any bedroom remodel is to look at the floor.

While hardwood or tile might look nice, it is less soundproof. It feels better to slip into or out of bed from a carpeted floor and the room will be much quieter.

If you already have hardwood or tile, carpeting over it is not a good idea. You always have to think about future resale value. Installing carpet can damage expensive hardwood or tile and decrease the resale value. But, you can buy area rugs.

Area rugs are inexpensive and can even be used on existing carpeting. They can add color, romance and comfort to a room, especially when the existing carpet is not the softest available.

Old carpeting can be a source of allergens. It collects dust, mites and molds. Even careful cleaning may not be able to remove those things. Replacing an old carpet could help you create your ideal sleeping space without blowing your budget.

If you have allergies, choose a hypoallergenic material. Synthetics are usually better than natural fibers in that respect. Ask the installation experts about the material they use during installation. Ideally, you would want to avoid smelly glues. It takes months for the smell to evaporate.

Walls and window treatments would be the next items on your remodel list. Choose soft paint colors, not too dark, not too bright. Consider a wallpaper border to add interest at the top of the room. You will enjoy looking at it as you wake up and before you fall asleep.

For window treatments choose soft materials, thick enough to keep out the light. Mini-blinds are a practical necessity in some areas to keep out light and sound, but they are more expensive than sheer panels. Using multiple panels can keep out the same amount of light, cost less and be more pleasing to the eye.

Except for a bedside lamp for reading, other lights should be subdued. Glaring overhead lights are not the ideal choice for a bedroom. Recessed and accent lighting can be used as nightlights and to draw attention to artwork.

Kid’s bedrooms are fun to decorate. With wall treatments you can create a wonderland for your child at a relatively low cost. Vinyl wall decorations are easy to install, clean and remove. They come in a wide variety of themes, suitable for kids old and young.

Closet doors are often overlooked, but they can add or detract from the appearance of any bedroom. Decorator closet doors don’t cost that much more than the plainer varieties.

You can use decorative screens to separate your sleeping area from your desk or bedroom office. They are inexpensive and require no installation.

If your bedroom furnishings are dark in color, you will want to choose lighter colored bedding and throw pillows to contrast and give the room a little light. While darkness is best for sleeping, people also use their bedrooms for dressing and relaxing. If it’s too dark, finding clothes and getting dressed can be a chore.

On dressers and chests, you can use light-colored linen runners to brighten the room. Table lamps or wall lanterns can be used placed or installed next to mirrors to make it easier to get dressed.

Inside the closet could be another area for improvement. If you are tired of searching for clothes or your storage space seems too small, consider a closet organizer. You can buy some simple ones that require no installation or you can contact a contractor to get something custom-made. It all depends on your budget.

The temperature in the bedroom is another factor that affects your ability to get a good night’s sleep. You might consider having a ceiling fan installed. The final effect can be reminiscent of a tropical isle. The improved air circulation can make breathing easier and reduce the temperature just enough to make sleeping easier.

Ceiling fans are available in a number of styles and colors, with or without lights. You can choose one to suit any décor and you’ll find that electricians charge very little to install them.

If your room feels cluttered with furniture, consider getting rid of the night stands. You can sell them at a yard sale and use the proceeds to help with your bedroom remodel. Bedside or behind the bed shelving can take the place of night stands and make the room feel less crowded.

Here’s a final thought. You really don’t have to spend a fortune. High-end furnishings are not as popular as they once were. Unless your furniture really needs to be replaced, keep it.

If you do need furniture, focus on comfort and durability. Think small. Large chunky furniture costs more and ends up crowding the room. Less is better when it comes to your bedroom.

I hope these ideas have helped some. If you still feel lost, consult and interior decorator. They have a knack for determining what you want and making your dreams a reality.