Hello Reader,

Alright, who's ready to start a brand new series?! I am! After all your votes, we're tackling bedroom design challenges.

It’s just a bed, dresser, and a few tables -what could be so hard? So many things! With awkward layouts, windows, or room size, and all of a sudden it becomes a puzzle.

Well, after styling my share of tricky bedrooms, I’ve gathered up some tried & true tips to share. Over the next several weeks, I’ll walk you through how to style your bedroom by going over:

• layout
• room size
• paint colors
• organization
• over the bed artwork

Plus, read to the end to find out how to get design help for YOUR bedroom!

Bedroom Layout

Ok, today we’ll tackle one of the biggest challenges for decorating a bedroom- the layout. As in, where do we put things?

I like to start with a clean slate. Most people get caught up thinking where thing “should” go. Instead, put that aside & keep these key tips in mind:

1. Furniture Placement

It’s easy to get stuck here. I say focus on what functions best. Always.

I suggest starting with the bed and then build from there. Often, people think the bed *must* be the focal and so it goes on the biggest wall. Not so.

Go with what works in that space.

2. Symmetry v. Balance

Symmetry in home design needs a big 'ol asterisk.

In general, symmetry is when two sides in a space feel equal.

And whoa nellie, we can take this way too far. With matching nightstands, table lamps, artwork, the bedroom can lose its authentic cozy factor.

Instead, think about how to balance the overall “weight” of the space. Like if one side has a tall plant, maybe the other side could use vertical artwork.

Balanced but not identical.

3. Flow

When placing bedroom furniture consider the flow of the room. Before committing, try walking around (and imagine what it’s like in the dark!) and avoid blocking pathways with furniture.

This seems obvious but so many times we put a bench, chair, or bookcase and then only spend our days bumping, going around, or silently cursing it.

4. Rug Size

In my research, 99% of bedrooms (not scientific data, but you know), benefit from a rug. And not just any rug. But one that is a proportionate size to the bed.

It will help ground and define the entire space so pieces don’t seem like they are floating.

Bedroom rugs work best when they are partially under the bed with room on each side. See my handy little graphic below.