8 shortcomings of a bedroom that can be fixed over the weekend

Shortcoming #1: Not enough light

Unfortunately, typical apartments can't boast large windows through which more light could enter the room. Often, the situation is made worse by trees growing in front of the house. Adding thick curtains to hide from outsiders' views – and the bedroom becomes like a cave. Solution: of course, we can't just cut a bigger window or remove the tree. But changing the textile window treatments is easy. Take off heavy dark curtains and hang light semi-transparent voiles instead – your bedroom will transform instantly. If you're used to layered window treatments or if your windows face a neighboring building, use light roller or Roman blinds. They won't block the light entering the bedroom and will protect you from prying eyes.

Shortcoming #2: Uncomfortable furniture placement

Many people are familiar with the desire to fit as much furniture as possible into a small room: bed, wardrobe, dresser, bedside tables, and maybe even a chair. In the end, to get to the bed, you have to navigate through a series of obstacles. Solution: make a small rearrangement. For this, first do an inventory: is your bulky bedside table really necessary or can it be replaced with a mini stool, how many items are stored in the dresser or is it half-empty? Draw up a floor plan of your bedroom on paper and come up with several layout options – you'll be surprised how many ideas you can implement in just one room.

Shortcoming #3: A boring bedroom

Sometimes the desire to create a universal interior turns the room into an unremarkable, boring space. Monochrome walls, beige furniture and upholstery, light bedding – there's nothing to catch the eye. Solution: fill your bedroom with life: come up with several seasonal decor sets. Use items and details that can be easily replaced: vibrant vases with flowers, colorful cushions, cozy throws with geometric patterns. A bedroom is naturally a place for sleep, but that doesn't mean it's not a space for color.

Shortcoming #4: Cold floor

The alarm rings, you stretch sweetly, throw off the blanket and put your feet on the cold floor – not the most pleasant start to the day. Solution: unfortunately, only tiled floors can be heated, but with parquet and laminate, we have to resort to traditional methods. The simplest and most popular way to add warmth and comfort is to lay down a couple of mats near the bed. They come in every color and style: cotton, linen, wool, knitted, fur. You can also lay down a carpet or large rug throughout the room – though maintaining them will be more difficult.

Shortcoming #5: A bedroom that doesn't look romantic

Sometimes, a bedroom only has two types of lighting: complete darkness, comfortable for sleep, or bright, glaring light from a ceiling chandelier. Neither of these is suitable for creating a romantic atmosphere. Solution: do away with general ceiling lighting. Replace the chandelier with bedside lamps or floor-standing lamps with semi-transparent shades, hang a wall sconce above the headboard for reading. Garland lights are useful not only on Christmas trees but also in bedrooms all year round – their soft glow creates a romantic ambiance.

Shortcoming #6: A featureless interior

Some bedrooms lack character and individuality. The room might have a fresh renovation, the floor and furniture gleam with cleanliness – but residents still don't feel comfortable. The room more resembles a hotel room than a personal space. Solution: look around – how many items in the bedroom reflect your interests and inner world? Let your cozy space have a face: hang family photos or favorite paintings on the walls – travel photos will also fit well.

Shortcoming #7: A cluttered bedroom due to open shelves

In magazine photos, the interiors are always perfectly organized: items are in their places, shelves hold beautiful decor arrangements, clothes are hung by color. In real life, it's far from perfect – open shelves and storage systems create chaos that ruins the mood and doesn't help with relaxation. Solution: let textile be your helper. Use thick monochrome curtains instead of wardrobe doors – they not only hide the mess and add comfort. Open shelves and work zones can also be concealed using ceiling rails and fabric.

Shortcoming #8: An uncomfortable bed

We spend about 8 hours a day sleeping – we want to spend that time in comfort and warmth. An uncomfortable mattress, a hard pillow, coarse bedding does not support restful sleep. Solution: first of all, change your bedding – choose quality natural fabrics. The softest and most breathable is bamboo, slightly inferior are sets made of Egyptian cotton.