By Chris Pask
From an interiors point of view, a master bedroom needs to perform two important functions: reflect the personal style of its inhabitants and help them unwind after a busy day. To design a perfectly tailored space, at architecture and interior design practice Charlton Brown we take our time to understand our clients' lifestyles. Every design decision helps shape the atmosphere of the room, from choosing the colour palette to selecting furniture that balances functionality with aesthetics.
When designing a principal bedroom, such as the one in this six-bedroom Arts and Crafts home in north London, it’s important to consider the practical and decorative elements needed to create a sanctuary.
Here, I suggest ways to make your bedroom entirely your own while maximising your beauty sleep.
Window treatments
Window treatments play an important role when it comes to sleep quality. Blackout curtains or blinds create complete darkness in the room — also helpful for any daytime naps.
We like to layer voiles over heavyweight curtains or roman blinds so you have the option of blackout or diffused light. You might also consider motorised window treatments, which can be controlled remotely — they offer convenience and allow you to operate them on a schedule.
In this home, we’d suggest combining sheer curtains with blackout roman blinds. The warm earth tones of the Tesserae blinds from Yarn Collective are an ideal complement to the existing antique wooden furniture and garden view.
Bed linen
Bed linen can elevate the aesthetics of your bedroom and provide a sumptuous sleeping experience.
Our favourite materials are Egyptian cotton and silk. The former is known for its softness and quality — we recommend a minimum 400 thread count for a luxurious feel — whereas silk is naturally hypoallergenic, making it an excellent choice for people with allergies and sensitive skin.
The Connaught Bed Linen Collection from The White Company is the perfect combination of Egyptian cotton (60 per cent) and silk (40 per cent).
Pillows
For the perfect night’s sleep, choose pillows made from a combination of down and feathers: the down ensures luxurious softness while the feathers add weight and structure.
This White Canadian Goose Down & Feather Pillow from Savoir combines both goose down and small feathers for an unparalleled slumber. Make sure to get king size pillows if your bed is king size or above!
Lighting
It’s wise to vary your lighting styles — a combination of ambient, task and accent allows for greater versatility.
Incorporate dimmer switches and, if possible, a lighting control system. This can be programmed to provide brighter light in the morning, leading to increased alertness and focus; while in the evening, a warm glow can mimic the setting sun and encourage you to unwind.
Reading lights are a great solution for couples where one is a late-night reader and the other needs an early night. The Anette Single Sconces (pictured) by Ralph Lauren in natural brass are a great option — their metallic shades add a sleek finish, while their adjustable design allows you to direct the light where it’s needed.
For an alternative to the room’s bedside lamps, we’d choose the Hazel table lamp. Its attractive green coloured glass base picks up on the green accents found in the Roman blinds.
Furniture
Placing a piece of furniture at the end of a bed can add flair while expanding storage space. The Mila upholstered bench, with birch frame and flax linen upholstery from Rowen & Wren complements the existing antique furniture, while the upholstery adds a certain softness to the room.
Photography: Knight Frank
