Wichita, Kansas | July 2009
Bedroom, Makeover, Interior Décor, Budget, Design
Writtn by: Maylene Fletcher

If you haven’t updated your bedroom in a while, chances are it is as tired as you are at the end of a long day. You spend nearly one third of your life in this room, so it is important to make it one of the most relaxing, visually appealing spaces in your house.

It should welcome you home at night and help you start each day with a renewed sense of well-being. This is your own private retreat from the world, a place very few people are invited to share.

Fortunately, it is also one of the easiest and least expensive rooms to update.

According to Cindi Ward, owner of Littell’s Design Studio, you need to do three things to get started; determine your budget, find your style and locate that one anchor piece that will inspire your creativity.

Paint is fairly inexpensive and has an immediate impact. If your budget is very tight, you can make a dramatic difference just by putting a new color on the walls, changing out the throw pillows on the bed and adding a few candles and complimenting accessories.

With more generous funds to work with, you may want to replace the window coverings, bedding, furniture, and maybe even the functionality of the space.

“Today the master bedroom has become a retreat. More and more people are adding coffee bars and mini fridges,” says Cindi. “They’ll have a comfy chair with a lamp and that’s their reading area.”

The main thing is to decide what is most important to you, then work within your budget to make that happen. An interior decorator can help in many ways. Not only can they give their clients guidance and direction, they have the knowledge and resources to save them time and money.

They also know things the average consumer does not. For instance, if you want to save money on new bedding, but you want the matching sham, throws and duster, check out the displays at furniture stores and model homes. It’s almost always for sale and it is discounted because technically it is no longer new. Cindi says you can sometimes get as many as 9 pieces for $250-$300.

“I always recommend that people tear pages out of magazines and start a file of the things they like,” says Cindi. “Not only does this help you set your budget, you’ll also end up finding your style and determining your color palette. As people do this on their own, they are usually choosing the same colors and styles most of the time. And that’s how you get your color palette.”

But don’t feel that you have to stay in one style. Cindi encourages her clients to “mix it up.” Combining different textures and contrasting colors will create a room that has a cohesive theme, but not one that is too limiting. It is also important to choose items that have special meaning and interest to you.

“Personalize your space,” encourages Cindi. “Put your initials on pillows, words that inspire you on the walls and frame your favorite photos.” Whether you decorate on your own or consult with a professional, the end result should reflect your personality, not that of your mother, your best friend or your interior decorator.

“It’s easier to change out your accessories than it is for the main pieces. If you’re a person that likes change, stick with a traditional base; traditional furniture and color in the bedding. Then add all the fluff and tickle around the room,” says Cindi.

“Even if you don’t plan to use a designer, having that initial consultation can be really helpful,” advises Cindi. “You will see your home through someone else’s eyes and that can give you a whole new perspective. We can make recommendations you might not think of on your own, but can implement yourself. It’s definitely worth the initial investment.”