by Grace Chew

Created on: November 21, 2008   Last Updated: November 25, 2008

How to choose the right furniture for the bedroom? Remember the 4"S"s: -

1) Size - A basic bedroom requires four essential pieces a bed, nightstand/s, a dresser and an armoire. Desks, bookshelves, lounge chairs, etc could work if there is space. When deciding between a King' and a Queen' size bed, there should be min 22 inches of walkway around the bed and 36 inches of space away from the armoire for ease of movement.

2) Who Stays - This determines a bedroom's purpose and style. For a child's bedroom, look out for kid-friendly furniture with no sharp edges. Style-wise, colorful furniture with fun-loving themes always works. For a couple's bedroom, romantic elements like a four-poster canopy bed, work wonders aesthetically and in other ways.

3) Style - A bedroom is a person's most intimate space. Know the person and know his style. Once determined, identify pieces that align with this style, say for a tropical resort theme, source out teakwood pieces rather than iron-rod/ steel furniture. The bed, being the centerpiece, should set the stage for the room.

4) $' Budget - Antique shops, second hand retailers, flea markets do the trick for the budget-conscious. Look for good architectural elements and refinish them. Paint is a great, cheap way to redefine old furniture.

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