Curating Romance This Month: Designing a Bedroom You’ll Love

A Touch of Love, A Touch of Luxury.

February is the month of love, and I often find myself drawn to the idea of romance when crafting interiors during this season. There’s something inherently personal about designing a bedroom, a space that should feel both indulgent and serene, functional yet inviting. For Valentine’s Day, why not embrace the opportunity to create an interior that speaks to intimacy and elegance? After all, romance starts at home and should last longer than just a day.  

The Power of Lighting: Set the Mood 

 When it comes to designing a romantic bedroom, lighting is the unsung hero. It’s not just about what you see, it’s about how the room feels. Lighting creates atmosphere, and the right lighting can transform an ordinary bedroom into a soft, luxurious retreat. Thoughtful placement of lighting can also highlight and enhance darker, moodier hues in the space, striking the perfect balance between drama and comfort. 

 Start by layering your lighting. A combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting allows you to adjust the mood to suit the occasion. Overhead lighting is often too harsh for a bedroom, so opt for a dimmable ceiling fixture to give you flexibility. Wall sconces or pendant lighting on either side of the bed can free up bedside table space while adding a designer’s touch. If space isn’t an issue, then use both. For the ultimate romantic touch, integrate hidden soft LED strips behind headboards, under floating furniture and within recesses to create a gentle glow that feels intimate and modern. 

Avoid cool white lights as they can feel clinical. Instead, choose bulbs with a Kelvin rating of 2700-3000K for a cosy, golden hue. Adaptable lighting automation or a dimmer switch is a must, as it’s the simplest way to create an atmosphere of relaxed luxury. 

A Romance of Colours Beyond the Obvious: Muted Reds, Deep Tones & Warm Hues 

 Red is often associated with romance, but it’s easy to overdo. Bright reds can feel overwhelming and garish in a bedroom. Instead, I recommend exploring deep wines, muted warmer tones and blush tones - shades that evoke warmth and elegance without shouting for attention. 

When using these tones in a bedroom, think about subtlety and placement. A textured cushion with muted piping & lining on the reverse side can introduce depth and richness without dominating the space. Pair these accents with neutral tones—soft creamy whites, taupe, or earthy tones to create contrast and balance. 

 If you’d like to be bolder, consider artwork or a feature headboard in a sumptuous fabric such as mohair or wool. This can act as a statement piece without feeling overpowering, especially when paired with neutral bedding. Remember, these deeper colours thrive in balance - they need to be grounded by softer tones to achieve that perfect romantic effect. 

The Bed Takes Centre Stage 

 A bedroom’s focal point is, of course, the bed. I always focus on quality and detail. An upholstered bed frame adds texture and elegance, while a well-curated selection of cushions and throws can provide layers of interest. Ground the bed with an oversized rug placed underneath it—a practical and aesthetic addition, especially if you have wooden floors. Rugs not only anchor the room but also offer sound absorption, making the space feel quieter and cosier. Complete the ensemble with a bench at the foot of the bed. This addition lends a polished, functional touch, providing a place to sit, lay out clothes, or simply add to the overall sense of luxury in the room. 

Luxury bedding is non-negotiable! Opt for high-thread-count sheets in neutral tones. Layer these with a soft throw in a deep tone for a subtle nod to the season. A mix of textures, from crisp cotton to cashmere or faux fur, adds a tactile element that makes the space feel inviting. These are also easy to change from one season to another.  

Details Matter: Bespoke Touches 

The details in a room can elevate it from beautiful to extraordinary. Consider bespoke touches that feel indulgent and personal. For example, Wave curtains or Roman blinds in an organic linen or silk blend can soften the room’s edges, while custom accents tie the palette together seamlessly. 

When it comes to furniture, I always recommend opting for the largest bedside tables your space can accommodate. Not only does this make the room feel more generous and balanced, but it also improves circulation around the bed—a crucial consideration. A spacious bedside table offers functionality and versatility, providing room for more than just a lamp and a book. 

It’s the perfect opportunity to showcase elegant accessories like a vase of fresh flowers, a beautifully scented candle, books, or even a small sculpture to add a touch of artistry. These layered details create a curated, luxurious aesthetic that elevates the overall ambiance of the room. 

To keep the space tidy and practical, consider incorporating cable management. Choose bedside tables with discreet cut-outs or feed cables through the back and into a drawer. This clever solution allows you to charge your devices effortlessly while keeping unsightly wires neatly out of view. The result? A polished, serene sanctuary that marries form and function seamlessly whilst optimising romance by keeping you off your phones.  

A Touch of Nature 

Nature enhances romance in subtle but impactful ways. Fresh flowers or greenery breathe life into a space, and in February, seasonal blooms can beautifully complement a romantic interior. Delicate florals in soft pinks, whites, or blush tones feel timeless, while richer greens add a grounding, organic element. 

Keep It Functional Yet Beautiful

If space allows, consider creating a pocket seating area. Upholster the chairs or benches in cosy, inviting fabrics such as boucle, and pair them with a chic coffee table. This setup creates an intimate corner for enjoying your morning coffee or curling up with a book before bedtime, blending comfort with sophistication. 

Storage is another crucial element. Clutter can easily diminish a bedroom's tranquil and romantic vibe, so smart storage solutions are a must. Built-in hidden wardrobes offer a sleek and streamlined option, while ottomans that double as seating and storage provide versatility without sacrificing style. By keeping your bedroom tidy and organised, you ensure the space remains calm, inviting, and an ideal sanctuary for relaxation and connection. 

The Final Touch: Scent and Sound 

Romance isn’t just visual; it’s multisensory. Scent plays a vital role in creating the right atmosphere. Multi-wick scented candles add a visible layer of luxury, while fragrances with notes of rose, oud, or sandalwood bring warmth and depth to the room. 

Sound, too, can enhance the mood. Soft music or white noise can promote relaxation and help create an intimate ambience. These small, thoughtful details tie everything together, transforming your bedroom into a sanctuary of romance and comfort.  

Check Kunal Trehan's Cheshire Living Magazine Column this year.