Making Spaces

Hello Reader,

Holy smokes, here we are at Week 4 in the Bedroom Challenge Series! (Missed previous weeks? No worries, l'll link them all at the end....)

I'm tackling my own bedroom right along with this series and will share some updates soon. But, I'm 99% sure a wall will be painted black before the week ends...

Speaking of paint, that's what we're addressing today - Bedroom Paint Color!

Remember - read to the end to see actual reader bedroom spaces and my decor tips for them!

bedroom with neutral home decor — Stock photo here - but lovely examples of a neutral/warm green wall color

Bedroom Paint Color

When decorating a bedroom, choosing paint feels extra important. It’s one space that’s ultra personal and also needs to function really well.

So, you know I love neutral colors. And you probably know that when I say neutral I don’t just mean any old white or gray color.

No sirree. I’m talking white, grays, and blacks with minimal undertones. Meaning, you’re not surprised when your gray wall looks pink in that mid day sunshine.

However, whether you stick with neutrals or go for colors, there are a few bedroom color traps to avoid:

Imagine how differently the bedroom above would look without the hanging pendant, tall curtains, or shelf + vertical art print! ☝️

1. Ice Cold

So often people want calm and soothing colors for the bedroom. Great!

What's the issue? Well, they end up choosing colors way too far on the cold undertones scale. (And when I say they, this means me too...)

And why is this is an issue? Cool colors can quickly feel sterile, cold, and icy.

So if you want blue or green hues, try to choose ones that still have some warmth to them to prevent the doctor's office vibes.

(I go over this in my paint guide linked t the end!)

2. So Emotional

Avoid committing to certain “feelings” – trust me, I know.

Can you believe I used to love yellow? Yep, in my early 20’s it was all bright, sunshine yellow – the color of happiness!

My bedding, clothes, walls, and even hair (blame it on the Sun In). But guess the problem with sunshine walls?

Well, when my anxiety kicked in – I did NOT want to sit in a room beaming yellow bliss. It was kind of obnoxious.

Instead, had I gone for something more (dare I say) neutral – this would’ve been great in any season of life.

3. Same 'Ol Same 'Ol

When I say neutral, you say... boring?! No! When I say neutral, you say contrast!

In bedroom spaces, I often see layers of sameness. Like gray walls + gray lamps + grayish rugs + well, you get it. And then it all feels a little monotone.

Look for ways to add contrast, meaning mix of the colors, textures, shapes, and patterns.

(My personal style is white + black + wood/natural + plants)

Shop My Favorite Neutral Rugs

Real Bedroom Spaces:

First, let me say that I am SO honored many of you trust me enough to share your personal spaces with me.

Today, I'm sharing two different reader bedrooms along with some styling suggestions.

bedroom with bed, headboard, and decor — Such a gorgeous bedroom! Those ceilings!

same large room, different angle - toddler bed will be moving

Bedroom #1:

Ground the space: With such a large, open space furniture can seem like it's "floating." Ground with a rug and if choosing a new headboard, go for one that takes up more solid space
Add height with wall sconces (or taller lamps)

Define Space: In addition to the rug, define corners with a tall plant and vertical artwork

Replace toddler bed with a large, comfy chair to create a lovely reading nook

bedroom with bed and curtains — Bright bedroom basement

Bedroom #2:

Use rug to define the space: I'd go for a low profile, neutral pattern
Consider moving artwork: Use tall vertical prints above bed (higher above frame), shift large print, leave some open space above lamps
Add round shapes to soften space. Use wall baskets, round chairs, baskets, etc.