Growing up I adored my bed, it was a queen size 4 post bed painted in pastel hues, and I always felt like a grown up princess! I still love the architecture and drama canopy beds lend - but now with a decidedly more modern feel. Far from fussy, these streamlined beds can look amazing in contemporary or eclectic spaces and provide a structural element to balance the other soft elements of a bedroom. Here is some modern canopy inspiration and a retail round up of my favorites (just in case you are looking!). 

My retail picks 
(clockwise):

RH Child Callum Storage Bed here

Crate + Barrel James Walnut Bed here

One Kings Lane Bryan Linen Canopy Bed here 

RH 19th C French Iron Bed here

CB2 Frame Canopy Bed here

Trend Spotting: Slipcovered Beds

I am always on the lookout for fresh takes on classics, and lately I am loving the chic style of slipcovered bed frames. Upholstered beds are so inviting and lend such a softness to a sleeping space, but can feel out of place in a more modern interior - but slipcovered beds are the prefect blend of traditional comfort and clean style. I especially like the causal but tailored vibe the covers give, and even embrace a few winkles! As an added bonus the covers are easy to wash and change out. Here is some inspiration . . . .

For those in the market, Anthropologie and Restoration Hardware both carry beautiful slipcovered bed frames!   

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Bedroom Styling: Long Lumbars

I will admit, I have an obsession with lots of pillows! But sometimes a slightly cleaner look is in order, so lately I have been focusing on a single long lumbar pillow to add a luxe feel. Some clients prefer a bed that is easier to make so this look works beautifully! Lumbars can be simple, chic and effective. Plus the elongated form creates a lovely variety of shapes. 

I usually ask my upholsterer make them up for me but you can also have a go at DIY here if you feel up to the challenge! 

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Bedroom Styling: Accessories 5 Ways

Master bedrooms are some of my favorite spaces to design - I love their versatility. Also as private spaces they allow for a few more personal touches, a cozy feel, and of course loads of lovely fabrics. I pulled these five bedrooms as they all have white walls, similar proportions, and simple neutral headboards - but the end results are beautifully varied! Bedrooms are really so easy to update and make your own using accessories, art and textiles. 

The Minimalist Bedroom

Usually I am drawn to rooms layered with patterns and color but there is something so restful and calming about a minimalist bedroom. A few years ago while my husband finished his MBA we rented a charming little carriage house in France, the bedroom was a tiny attic room with a dormer window and pitched ceiling. There was classic sisal carpeting, a simple low bed with white bedding and a vintage bedside table - maybe it was the peaceful decor (or maybe the fact that it was gray and snowy!) but we still talk about how well we slept there! It was like a cozy cave, so perfect to shut out all distractions and just rest. 

So what do you think - are minimal bedrooms soothing or just empty?!

Decorating Project: Holland Hill Calming Master

I was just revisiting a post from a few months ago about creating a lovely layered space using neutral hues and it brought to mind this peaceful master bedroom I completed a while back here in Singapore! We aimed to create a tranquil but inviting space, using loads of whites and creams with just a few accents of warm colors where needed. Many different textures and finishes also work together to liven up the room and create visual interest. See, beige does not have to be boring! 

And I am very excited to say that this lovely client has moved into a bigger home and we are working together again :) 

A special thank you to the very talented Claire of Fellow Fellow for the gorgeous photography!

Singapore Style: Master Bedroom Sneak Peak

Just a quick peak into my afternoon . . . I am working on a Master Bedroom makeover for a young family here in Singapore. We were aiming for something functional and easy to maintain but still fresh and stylish. Here are two possible directions, I love how much impact switching out art and lighting can have! 

So, which is your favorite? 

AE Design: A Gracious Guest Bedroom

Today I am so excited to share a project I recently completed - a gracious and sunny guest bedroom here in Singapore! My clients requested a cozy yet fresh guest room on a budget for their parents who often come to visit for long stretches. Although quite small, the space has lovely tall ceilings and huge windows so we opted for a palette of soft, creamy neutrals grounded with a few pops of deep ochre, teal and chocolate brown. Here a few of my take away designer tips:

{1} In a small bedroom, leaving the floors bare creates a generous and uncluttered feel

{2} I always love bright, clean look of white bedding for a guest room - it reminds me of staying in a luxe hotel!

{3} Adding gauzy white sheers behind the warm ivory linen curtains provides privacy while still allowing the beautiful natural light to flood in

All photos were taken by the very talented Claire of Fellow Fellow - I just adore how she captured the room!

If you have a design dilemma here in Singapore or elsewhere please feel free to drop me a line - I would love to help!