A bedroom to last..

A bedroom to last – the best functional design tips

As you grow older, it’s likely you’ll be starting to think about how some elements of your home might need to change, not just for practical reasons, but also to make it a more pleasurable and comfortable place in which to spend your time. Whether you’re concerned about managing the stairs or are starting to notice possible trip hazards, there’s a lot to think about; however, approaching your later years does not mean you have to sacrifice design, aesthetics and high quality furnishings in your home. In fact, you can keep all of those things while also benefiting from a smart design that helps with day to day living. This article will focus on the main bedroom and how you can keep it both beautiful and functional as you enter your later years.

Layout

The bed is of course the centrepiece of any bedroom, so the rest of the room has to be designed around it; however, be sure not to position the bed so close to the door that it blocks your path. To maximise the free space, your bed should be the only sizeable furniture item in the room. In order to give yourself as much space as possible in which to move around freely, it could be worth downsizing some other furniture items. Do you really need a chest of drawers, for example, if you already have a wardrobe? By making your bedroom as clutter-free as possible, you’ll be reducing the risk of a fall.

Lighting

Plenty of light is essential in a bedroom because gloomy areas can create trip hazards and other problems. But good lighting isn’t just about illumination, it’s also a key part of a room’s aesthetic, too, and having a high degree of natural light is a good mood booster. Being able to control how much light your window coverings let in is key, and that’s where DIY shutters really come into their own. They’re stylish, too, so you won’t have to worry about your home looking old-fashioned.

Having easily-controlled natural light in a bedroom is also useful if you find yourself unwell in bed at some point in the future. With adjustable shutters, you’ll be able to let in enough light to read or watch TV – but can easily shut it out again if you need to sleep. While nobody likes to think of the risk of illness arising in the future, it’s worth thinking about for your long-term bedroom planning and being able to allow in plenty of natural light when required is beneficial.

Designing a bedroom which works for you in your later years may seem like a tough job, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s actually more than possible to design a sanctuary that is not only functional and safe, but also relaxed and stylish.