Good sleep isn’t just about how many hours you get—it’s about designing an environment that nurtures deep rest and relaxation.

The spaces we inhabit shape our well-being, and our bedrooms should be designed as sanctuaries for restoration. With a thoughtful approach to design, combined with science-backed and holistic sleep practices, we can transform our nights and, in turn, the way we experience our days.

Here’s how to create a bedroom that truly supports quality sleep.

1. Design for Darkness & Natural Light

Our bodies follow a natural sleep-wake cycle, known as the circadian rhythm, which is influenced by light exposure. To encourage a healthy rhythm:

• Morning Light Matters – Position your bed near a window where you can get natural light upon waking. If this isn’t possible, consider using a daylight-mimicking lamp in the morning.
• Blackout for Better Sleep – Use blackout curtains or layered window treatments to block out external light pollution at night, particularly if you live in an urban area.
• Dimmable & Warm Lighting – Swap out harsh overhead lighting for warm, dimmable bedside lamps. Amber or soft white bulbs help signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down. Ideal bulb temperature is 2700 K.

2. The Right Materials 

• Breathable Bedding – Linen and organic cotton regulate temperature, keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter. We love Carlotta & Gee linen
• Natural Mattresses & Pillows – Look for materials like latex, wool, or organic cotton for better air circulation and fewer toxins.
• Layered Textures for Comfort – Incorporate soft throws, plush rugs, and upholstered furniture to add a sense of calm and warmth.

3. Soundproofing 

Noise pollution is a major disruptor of deep sleep, but simple design choices can minimise disturbances:

• Use Soft Furnishings – Upholstered furniture, heavy curtains, and rugs absorb sound, making a space feel quieter.
•  Strategic Wall Treatments – Fabric-covered panels or textured wallpaper can reduce echoes and external noise.
• White Noise or Nature Sounds – A sound machine or a simple fan can mask disruptive noises and create a consistent auditory environment.

4. Positive Chi 

The way furniture is arranged impacts the feeling of ease in a space.

• Position Your Bed Thoughtfully – If possible, place the bed against a solid wall with a clear view of the door—this enhances a subconscious sense of security.
• Declutter for Mental Clarity – Keep nightstands minimal, with only essentials like a book, a lamp, and a water carafe.  Keeping your space free of clutter isn’t just aesthetic—it reduces mental stimulation before sleep.
• Avoid Tech – Place charging stations in a separate area of the room or outside the bedroom altogether.

5. Scent & Sensory Design

• Calming Scents – Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and sandalwood can help promote relaxation. Try an essential oil diffuser or a linen spray. Stay away from scented candles as they are toxic.
• Weighted Blankets – The gentle pressure of a weighted blanket can ease stress and anxiety, making it easier to drift off.
• Plants for Air Quality – Peace lilies, snake plants, and aloe vera naturally purify the air and calm our nervous systems by connecting us back to the natural environment.

6. Sleep Supportive Rituals

Beyond design, incorporating small nightly rituals can help train your body to recognise when it’s time to wind down:

• Evening Wind-Down – Reading, journaling, or stretching can help signal to your brain that the day is ending.
• Mindful Movement – A few minutes of yoga or deep breathing exercises before bed can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting restfulness.
• Cooling the Room – Keeping your bedroom around 18°C (65°F) has been proven to enhance sleep quality.