Bedding Bible

The luxurious bed piled high with plush cushions or the low set futon with minimalist pillows, there is an art to the perfect bedding.

Lindy Evans from Windemere Interiors says the higher the bedhead, the more the bedding. "It's not a hard and fast rule, but it's a good place to start," she said. "Decide first on a theme for your bedroom and that will probably also dictate the type of bed and bedhead."

Once your bed and bedhead are decided, then you can start with the basics. Good quality, high thread count sheets in a neutral such as white, cream or taupe is a good base. If the bed is an ensemble, a simple matching valance will complete the basics.

The feature of your bedding should either be the quilt cover or the cushions. If your feature is your quilt cover, there are many styles, fabrics and textures to suit your bedding theme. For an opulent theme, choose a luxurious quilt cover in a rich dark silk or for a beach theme try a fresh linen quilt cover in a bright breezy colour. Some plain cushions will finish this look.

If you choose for your cushions as your bedding feature, the theme will dictate the style of cushions. For a modern vintage bedroom, choose an eclectic variety of cushions in a number of textures and colours. For an elegant bedroom, a mixture of plain and limited patterned cushions will create a sophisticated theme over a plain coloured quilt cover. A throw at the end of the bed will complete the look.

Lindy says the higher the bedhead the more cushions you can use. "A high bedhead will look great with a variety of European cushions, ornate cushions and standard pillows. A low bedhead or futon can still have at least 4 standard pillows," she said.

Inspiration Gallery

Glitz & Glamour Theme

Natural Elements Theme

Urban Living Theme

Rural Retreat Theme

Rural Retreat Theme

Tribal Rhythm Theme

Rural Retreat Theme

Beach Life Theme

Beach Life Theme

Master Bedrooms and Retreats

Master bedrooms and retreats are evolving from a bedroom with an ensuite to havens to escape the world, and maybe even the household. Today's new designs include retreats, private balconies and reading nooks to create a little sanctuary for parents.

Lindy Evans from Windemere Interiors, says you should see your master bedroom as a retreat and not just a place to sleep. "Think of your master bedroom as your haven where you can spend quality time for yourself," she said, "a little thought into how you decorate this room will go a long way later."

If you're redecorating a master bedroom, Lindy has a few tips to turn the space into a private sanctum.

Don't be afraid of using dark colours on the walls. It's the only room that you can get away with this. Charcoals, chocolates and burgundies create a feeling of opulence and luxury.

Invest in a good quality bed and high thread-count linen. If you are going to spend precious time here then invest in quality for these essentials. It will last longer in the long run. 

Create a retreat. Even if you only have a small space, you can set up a reading chair and lamp for some time out.

Ensure you have appropriate storage. Don't clutter your retreat space with clothes and books. Build or create shelves and storage to keep the area clear and relaxing.

Use dark window treatments. Heavy, sun blocking drapes or blinds will help you get a restful slumber.

Master Bedroom and Retreat Inspiration Gallery from Windemere Interiors