by Mj Ferruzza

Created on: December 10, 2008   Last Updated: August 22, 2011

There are steps in taking any ordinary space and creating the extraordinary. A place for rest, a place for tranquility, a place for relaxation and a place for creativity. Here is a list of dos and don'ts in redoing your bedroom as a comforting hideaway for both you and a partner. The key is to find out what works best and maximum the potential with your own results.

The Basics

Your bedroom should be a room of rest. By adding televisions, over sized stereo equipment, clothes hampers, desk with computer takes this sanctuary from tranquility and changes it into some kind of glorified dorm room. Your room should be clean (which promotes health), it should be semi-soundproof (promotes good sleep), and it should lend itself to comfort.

1. Paint or wall coverings.

Simple colors are beneficial to peace and tranquility in your safe haven. A busy pattern, numerous pictures or paintings can lead to distraction. Your optic and peripheral senses become overstimulated and can lead you to unrest, sometimes you don't even know why.

2. Your bed.

The problem with beds and mattresses is that we hardly ever find one on our own. We buy through trial and error, or in quite a few cases, we just inherit our beds. Sleep is beneficial in recharging our busy lives. Why would we not seek out the best mattress firmness or size and get the real sleep we need?

3. Sound

The environment you create affects all your senses, sound being one of the most important. There are sleep machines that create white noise which blocks a majority of outside sounds leading to a more consistent restful sleep.
The stereo effect! Some people like music, they like the news, they like to hear just about any noise to help them relax. There are stereos in all price ranges, but the keys is to find an unobtrusive one for your space. A bulky receiver and speaker system defeats the purpose. As stated, that which we thought would soothe us only burdens us. Stereo speakers make great end tables for clothes and clutter, think small, if at all.

4. Lighting

You want it bright when you are reading in bed, but adjustable as a way to set a mood for other moments. One lamp by the bed and a floor lamp may work for some, but by adding a little creative thinking (and possibly a candle or three), one can start to bask in a comforting warm glow all their own.

5. Smell

Incense works for some, but are intrusive to others. Health food stores sell different types of oils (the same used in making perfumes and colognes), you can experiment

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