I've got a client who is not so in love with her bedroom. She and her husband are so tired of a boring and bland bedroom and are ready to create a tranquil getaway. They want a space that makes them feel like they are in a secluded hotel, away from the rest of the world. Can you translate that vibe into a New York City teeny apartment? Absolutely. With just a few tweaks, you can totally transform your space to feeling like a lovers b + b. Here is how you can do it...
First things first. I believe that dark walls have a sort of essence that lends itself to romance. I tend to like softer shades of black, not stark black but an almost black or dark grey. You don't have to go that dark, but I do find that light looks softer when cast off a darker wall color. If you can't stand the idea of going too dark, go for a warmer, softer version of another color. Browns or dusty pinks work too. Stay away from blues and greens, as those are more tranquil colors and will get you feeling more like rest and not romantic. The headboard used in the photo above is the Bristol headboard I've used in a few clients' homes. It's romantic and so glamorous. Perfect for any bedroom.
I'm also a HUGE fan of anything mirrored. Not only do mirrored pieces look glam, they also reflect candlelight so well and there is something very elegant and romantic about that. Mirrors work well too. They say in feng shui that you shouldn't have mirrors that face the bed because it may keep you from deep sleep. However, I find that mirrors just enchant a bedroom and keep it feeling romantic and glamorous.
Canopies, four poster beds, fabric around the bed, etc. All of these attract an element of escape and privacy. Do you ever notice that most period films have canopied beds in the chambers where all of the romance scenes are shot. There is something very romantic about fabric. Feel free to layer up especially over the bed. No way you can have a canopy bed? Cool. Make sure that your window treatments are extra long. There is something very romantic about billowing fabrics just brushing the floor.
The right lighting is essential in a romantic bedroom. You might want to consider adding a gorgeous chandelier to add drama and elegance to the space. Next, ensure your bedside lighting is low and be sure to use soft bulb wattage. Candles. Candles. and more candles. If you don't like the fire, get the pillar candles that are LED and battery operated. I love these, you can leave them on all night and not worry about a fire. Candles just scream romance so no romantic bedroom would be complete without them. I really like candles in groups, they can replace any regular light fixture when done this way. Placing them in hurricanes also adds light and refections.
If you have enough room and you don't already have one, add a faux or electric fireplace. I can't say enough how dramatic and romantic this turns a room. It's like an 'escape in an instant'.
Faux fur just screams romance so feel free to add a touch to your bed. A throw or pair of pillows will work. The more fabric and texture, the better.
I also want to encourage you to err on the side of less art, more plant life. You've got to be very careful about the art you put on your walls because it evokes a mood. Flowers, nudes or scenes are the only ones I would deem suitable. Anything else could distract your eye or your vibe. You want to feel the energy of life and love. That's why I love greenery in a bedroom, it gives the room life and energy. Orchids are my favorite flowers for a bedroom as well.
Now, who's ready to get the romantic bedroom look? I know I am.