As a self-proclaimed design enthusiast, I’ve always believed that our living spaces should be more than just functional – they should tell a story, evoke emotion, and transport us to a world of our own making. And when it comes to the bedroom, this sentiment holds true, perhaps even more so. After all, this is the oasis where we retreat to unwind, recharge, and let our minds and bodies simply be.

Recently, I had the opportunity to dive headfirst into a project that allowed me to fully indulge this passion for crafting captivating, personalized spaces. The task? Redesigning the master bedroom of a historic inn in the Berkshires – a true labor of love that challenged me to push the boundaries of what a bedroom can be.

Embracing the Unexpected

When I first laid eyes on the room, I’ll admit, I was a bit daunted. With its diagonal wall, five walls (yes, five!), and lack of privacy due to being the first room you encounter upon entering the inn, it was far from a blank canvas. But as any seasoned designer knows, constraints often breed the most innovative and inspiring solutions.

I decided to dive headfirst into the challenge, using the room’s unique quirks as the foundation for my design vision. The diagonal wall, for instance, became the perfect spot to anchor the bed, while the abundance of windows offered an opportunity to create a truly cozy cocoon using layered, luxurious textiles.

Color, Contrast, and Contradiction

As I began to envision the space, one thing became clear: I wanted to create a symphony of delightful contradictions. A place where bold, saturated colors and modern elements coexisted seamlessly with traditional, regal details. Where the everyday would become extraordinary, and guests would feel like royalty the moment they stepped through the door.

To achieve this, I started with a rich, blue-teal hue from Benjamin Moore as the room’s dominant color, serving as the perfect cozy cocoon in which to while the day away in luxury. I then juxtaposed this with bold, metallic accents – gold in the molding and other details – to add a touch of opulence and visual interest.

The Art of Layering

One of my favorite design tricks is to layer textures, patterns, and materials to create depth and visual intrigue. And this project was the perfect canvas to do just that.

I kicked things off with the ceiling, daring to cover it in a contemporary wallpaper by Kravet that instantly brought a sense of spaciousness and coziness to the room. Above the bed, I incorporated a stunning hand-painted wallpaper by Gracie, seamlessly balancing the modern and traditional elements.

But the true showstopper, in my opinion, is the layered window treatments. Knowing that privacy would be a concern, I turned to the age-old design trick of using velvet draperies – not only for their luxurious, opulent appearance, but also for their ability to act as blackout shades. These were custom-made from a Clarke and Clarke fabric, complemented by agate-inspired geometric shades from Lee Jofa, all framed by a stunning brass rod.

Regal Refinement

When it comes to designing a space fit for royalty, there are certain design elements that simply can’t be overlooked. And in this bedroom, I made sure to incorporate them in spades.

The bed itself, graciously donated by Theodore Alexander, is a true showstopper. Beautifully tufted and adorned with luxurious bedding from Ann Gish, it exudes an air of refined elegance that immediately sets the tone for the entire room. Flanking the bed are side tables and a wingback chair, also from Theodore Alexander, that add to the regal atmosphere.

But it’s the little details that truly seal the deal. The intriguing bedside lamp from Hudson Valley Lighting, the cocktail corner complete with a Currey & Co. credenza and avant-garde art, and the built-in fireplace with its gold accents all come together to create a space that feels fit for an empress.

The Importance of Personalization

While the overall design may be grand and regal, I made sure to infuse the room with personal touches that would make each guest feel truly special. From the Star Wars-inspired pillows in the reading nook to the hand-painted Gracie wallpaper in the ensuite bathroom, every element was carefully curated to tell a unique story.

I also incorporated a mix of vintage and contemporary pieces, each with its own history and personality, to create a space that feels both timeless and modern. By blending the old and the new, the classic and the avant-garde, I was able to craft a truly one-of-a-kind oasis that I can’t wait for guests to experience.

Crafting the Ultimate Retreat

At the end of the day, the true measure of a successful bedroom design is how it makes the occupant feel. And in this case, I set out to create a space that would transport guests to a world of luxury and relaxation – a cozy cocoon where they could truly unwind and leave the stresses of the outside world behind.

From the sumptuous textiles and plush furnishings to the calming color palette and personal touches, every element of this bedroom was carefully curated to evoke a sense of tranquility and indulgence. It’s a space that defies expectations, blending the traditional and the modern in a way that is both visually stunning and emotionally captivating.

So, whether you’re looking to refresh your own bedroom or simply seeking inspiration for your next design project, I encourage you to embrace the unexpected, layer texture and color, and create a personalized retreat that speaks to your unique style and sensibilities. After all, your home should be a true sanctuary – a place where you can unwind, recharge, and let your mind and body simply be.