Sleep and the Bedroom: Crafting Your Perfect Sanctuary for Rest

Ah, sleep. That beautiful, elusive necessity we chase every night. Sleep is fundamental to life, like food and water, yet often overlooked. But not by me! As someone who unapologetically adores sleep — eight hours a night, thank you very much — I can confidently say that rest is sacred.

In fact, for me, sleep is more important than most other things. And no, I’m not ashamed to admit it. In a world where everyone’s hustling and glorifying sleepless nights, I’m standing tall in my truth: I need my rest, and I’m not here to downplay it. And why should I? Sleep is essential for our mental and physical well-being. There’s a growing awareness of this in recent years, but maybe I’m just inching closer to the “uncool” age of 40, where going to bed at a reasonable hour isn’t just a goal; it’s a necessity.

But enough about how many hours I clock in at night — let’s talk about the space where it all happens—your bedroom. As an interior designer and someone who spends nearly one-third of her life in this room, I’ve learned that what surrounds you when you sleep can significantly impact your rest. Just because your eyes are closed for most of the night doesn’t mean the décor or design doesn’t matter. It does. The bedroom should be a peaceful oasis, your hideaway where you can unwind, relax, and recharge.

The Bedroom: Not a Storage Unit, Not an Office

Let’s get one thing straight: your bedroom should serve two primary purposes — sleep and storing your belongings (clothes, jewellery, perhaps a few keepsakes). That’s it. It’s not an office, not a hobby room, and not a catch-all for the clutter you’re too tired to put away. When you step into your bedroom, you don’t want to be reminded of emails that still need responses or the laundry piling up in the corner. It would be best if you left your work and worries outside.

This is your sanctuary — a place where you and maybe your partner can just be. Nothing more.

While every person is unique, with preferences and quirks, there are a few universal tricks to making your bedroom feel like a restful retreat. Here are my top tips for transforming your bedroom into your desired sleep sanctuary.

1. Soft, Calming Colors

The colours you choose for your bedroom walls and bedding are crucial to setting the mood. Soft, muted tones like light blues, greys, soft pinks, and earthy neutrals create a calming atmosphere. Bold, bright colours have their place — but trust me, it’s not in the bedroom. You want to walk into your room and feel at peace, not overstimulated.

2. The Right Mattress

We spend a third of our lives in bed. Let that sink in for a minute. Now, ask yourself — is your mattress doing you any favours? A comfortable mattress is non-negotiable. It’s one of the best investments you can make for your well-being. You need something that supports your body and aligns your spine so you wake up refreshed and without aches and pains. Take your time to research and try different options, whether it’s memory foam, innerspring, or a hybrid. Your body will thank you.

3. Supportive Pillows

Speaking of support, your pillows matter just as much as your mattress. No one enjoys waking up with a crick in their neck or a sore back. Choose pillows that keep your head, neck, and spine in alignment. Like your mattress, this is an area where quality matters. Whether you’re a back sleeper, side sleeper, or stomach sleeper, a pillow is designed to support you perfectly.

4. Natural Fiber Bedding

When it comes to bedding, natural fibres are the way to go. Think cotton, linen, bamboo — materials that breathe and feel luxurious against your skin. Not only are these fabrics more comfortable, but they also help regulate your body temperature while you sleep. No one wants to wake up in the middle of the night drenched in sweat because their bedding doesn’t breathe. Choose materials that are soft, breathable, and gentle on the skin.

5. Simple, Neutral Bed Covers

This might be a controversial opinion, but I stand by it: a bed with a simple, neutral cover looks far more inviting than one covered in busy patterns or loud prints. A solid, neutral bedspread in a soft fabric creates a serene and cohesive look without competing for attention in a space meant for relaxation. And it’s much easier to style your bed this way — a couple of throw pillows, a cosy blanket, and voilà, you’ve got a beautifully made bed with minimal effort.

6. A Table or Shelf for Essentials

A small but important detail is having a bedside table or shelf to keep a glass of water, your current book, and your phone. Please keep it simple and uncluttered. The last thing you want is to feel overwhelmed by a pile of things falling off your bedside table every time you reach for something. A tiny tray for odds and ends can help keep it neat.

7. Cosy Lighting

Good lighting is essential for creating a relaxing atmosphere. A soft, warm bedside lamp can make all the difference. Avoid harsh, bright overhead lighting at night; instead, opt for something dimmable or with softer hues to set the mood for winding down. I recommend a small bedside light that gives off a warm glow — it’s calming and perfect for pre-sleep reading.

8. Natural Fiber Pajamas

Just as with your bedding, what you wear to sleep matters. Opt for pyjamas made from natural materials like cotton or linen. These fabrics are breathable and comfortable and won’t leave you feeling sticky or sweaty in the middle of the night. The goal is to feel relaxed and at ease in your sleepwear, so skip the synthetics and go natural.

9. Aromatherapy and Soothing Scents

Your sense of smell plays a significant role in how relaxed you feel. Incorporate aromatherapy into your bedtime routine with essential oils, candles, or sprays. Lavender, chamomile, and eucalyptus are famous for promoting relaxation and sleep. A spritz of linen spray on your pillows or a softly scented candle can create a calming atmosphere that soothes you to sleep.

10. Good Storage Solutions

Nothing kills a peaceful vibe like clutter. Good storage is vital to keeping your bedroom tidy and organised. Ensure you have a place for everything, whether in drawers, closets, or baskets. When everything has a home, it’s easier to keep your space clutter-free, which in turn helps your mind feel less chaotic. If you have space, add a chair or a basket for the clothes you plan to wear again before laundry day. Living in your space is okay, but a little organisation goes a long way.

The Importance of a Cleaning Routine

You might have the most serene bedroom in the world, but if it’s dirty or cluttered, it won’t feel like much of a retreat. I recommend cleaning your bedroom at least once a week. This includes changing your bedding, dusting, vacuuming, and removing accumulated clutter. A clean, fresh-smelling room is far more inviting than one with last week’s laundry still on the floor.

And yes, make your bed every morning. It sets the tone for the rest of your day, and coming home to a neatly made bed feels… right.

A Bedroom Designed for You

Ultimately, your bedroom is your space and should reflect your style while promoting rest. Keep it simple, functional, and cosy. Focus on comfort and calm, and remember — less is more. When you craft a space that feels like an oasis, you’ll find that sleep comes more efficiently and waking up feels a little less painful. Your bedroom isn’t just where you sleep; you restore yourself and retreat from daily life's chaos.

So go ahead — prioritize your sleep. Unapologetically. Create a bedroom that feels like the restful, dreamy haven you deserve. After all, in a world that never stops, sleep should be your sacred pause.