With this in mind, we turned to some of our favorite designers to find out what common design mistakes they notice in people’s bedrooms and how to fix them. Designer Megan Molten agrees, noting that nightstands are a particular problem area. “I always see a pile of stuff on nightstands," she says. “We always try to source nightstands with adequate storage for our clients so they can keep them free and clear of clutter. Keep styling on top of the nightstands practical with a tray for small jewelry, picture frames of loved ones, and a small candle to set the mood.” One suggestion from Rivka Davidowitz of Restoring Minimal: put your dresser in your closet. “This hack has saved not only me, but countless of my clients,” Davidoqitz says. “With a wide, low dresser that fits in your closet, you’re going to emphasize managing that clutter.” “Please don’t add your elliptical or treadmill into your bedroom,” Malek Barney says. “This is a place of rest and relaxation.” Molten also suggests getting rid of your desk if possible—by having it present, you’re creating an opportunity for work stress to linger after 5 p.m. “While I know it’s hard to put away the electronic devices before bed, I prefer not having a TV in the bedroom,” John McClain of John McClain Design says. “Placing a big black rectangle on your wall does nothing for the space aesthetically, and the blue light it gives off isn’t great for your sleep cycle, either. In place of the TV, try incorporating unique pieces of artwork.” Amy Youngblood of Amy Youngblood Interiors agrees. She notes that many people overlook lighting in the bedroom and suggests adding a decorative flush mount or a pair of lamps. “Stick with a theme or color throughout the space,” Youngblood adds. “If there’s blue on the rug, find a blue accent pillow for the bed.” “Make sure that your pieces are equally distributed throughout the room,” she says. “Creating a cohesive bedroom is not only about design, but more about how you feel in the space.” Laura Pankonien of The Pankonien Group agrees. “We notice most often that furnishings are not scaled properly in the bedroom, such as a nightstand or a rug that is not appropriate for the size of the room and bed,” she says. Davidowitz agrees. “I’m all for things matching and uniformity, but there is no need for your entire furniture set to be identical,” she tells us. “Stick to matching nightstands, at most.” McClain points out that corners are often overlooked, too. “Regardless of the size of a bedroom, I find corners are often left bare and forgotten,” he says. “For smaller corners, incorporating plants or a floor lamp can be an easy way to add color and visual height to your room. For spacious corners, consider adding additional seating, lighting, and even a well-chosen side table.” Opt for crisp white bedding, a beautiful and functional table lamp, and black-out window treatments in a neutral linen fabric, Pankonien suggests. These are all easy ways to start your cohesive bedroom design.
