Simple Bedroom

Simple and Understated

This is a room that is masculine enough for a husband yet attractive enough to appeal to a woman. Sophisticated neutrals -- grays, taupes, ivories, and browns -- mix quietly, highlighted only by a kiss of pink in the art.

• Touchable pillows of velvet and faux fur dress the bed.
• A box spring cover stands in for a traditional bed skirt.
• The velvet ottoman offers a place to set blankets or luggage.
• A nightstand with wicker drawers adds a casual note.

Soft and Pretty Bedroom

A monochromatic color palette makes a small room feel larger. Awash in warm white, this bedroom is both airy and romantic. Shapely furnishings with aged finishes star in the pale room, where simple shapes and layers of texture combine to create pared-down elegance.

• Aubusson tapestry pillows add warmth to the crisp white bed linens.
• A French-style settee at the foot of the bed provides a soft spot to read.
• Plantation shutters ensure privacy but allow more light than bulky fabric treatments.
• A sisal rug softens a high-gloss wood floor.

Sunwashed Serenity

In this peaceful bedroom retreat, an entire wall of built-in bookcases was inspired by the homeowner's love of reading. The shelves put collections on display and add color. An opening in the shelves leads to an adjoining dressing room -- and adds a bit of whimsy.

• Placing the bed in the wall alcove makes it the room's focal point.
• Awash in soft neutral shades, the room feels calm and inviting.
• A sisal area rug adds warmth to the cold floor tiles.
• Carved wood furnishings fit with the room's organic look.

Sweet Sophistication

A toile in shades of cream and salmon was the guiding force for this room's design. Paired with a small check, the result is a room the occupant will love for years. Floral wallpaper, a delicate chandelier, and gold-framed artwork also contribute to the sophisticated style.

• A pair of iron beds allows a social butterfly to host sleepovers in style.
• The carpet features a pattern that matches the room's palette.
• A pitcher filled with flowers is in keeping with the cottage style.
• Mixing patterns is easy if they all feature the same colors.

Texture Trove

This simply serene bedroom began with a warm, neutral backdrop and was embellished with layers of texture, color, and contrast. The vintage hooked wool rug above the bed inspired the collection of pillows, including silk, tufted cotton, and crewelwork pieces, as well as the room's vivid orange accents.

• A linen skirt anchors the bed and connects to the headboard.
• For continuity, the bold orange accent color is repeated in several spots around the room.
• Architectural details, including wainscoting and a built-in display niche, add interest.
• Texture adds interest (and comfort) to a room without much color.

Tradition with a Twist

A playful mix of old and new gives this master bedroom its unique, eclectic look. Curvy in all the right places, the custom upholstered headboard takes its design cues from the undulating shape of the traditional bedside chest of drawers. The bed is outfitted with an unexpected mix of sweet, feminine florals and splashy, modern animal prints.

• Gold accents are a timeless choice -- perfect in traditional rooms.
• Animal prints are a surprisingly elegant accent for floral bedding.
• A bed skirt in the same damask as the headboard extends the look to the floor.
• Piping detail gives the headboard the look of a tailored mat and frame.

Twist of Lime

Dark chocolate walls outlined with white moldings reinforce the geometry of the furnishings. A rectangular bed, striped bedding, squared-off nightstands, and angular lampshades are offset only by a handful of rounded elements.

• Simple tailoring and linear elements emphasize contemporary style.
• A three-color scheme mixes dark and light brown with lime.
• The ceiling color is a 50/50 mix of brown wall paint and white.
• An abundance of natural light offsets deeper wall color.

Warming Trend

Rich gold tones combined with deep black furnishings give this room instant drama. Patterned wallpaper, floral pillows, and a detailed area rug add interest, while the velvet settee and linen draperies deliver warm texture.

• French doors let in light and provide access to the backyard.
• A plush white duvet cover gives the bed cuddle-up comfort.
• Using big furniture in smaller rooms actually makes the space seem larger.
• The bed's painted edges complement the room's color palette.

Winning Combination

Two small bedrooms were gutted and combined to create this spacious master suite. A new vaulted ceiling adds character and additional volume, while large windows capitalize on the view. Crown moldings, hardwood floors, and other character-defining elements were saved.

• A porthole window in the new gable lets in extra light.
• Hanging the window treatments high accentuates the room's tall ceilings.
• A neutral palette keeps the room light and airy.
• Worn furnishings mix with modern accessories for an eclectic look.