There's nothing quite like the comfort of a hotel bed. The plush mattress, fluffy duvet, and abundant pillows create a relaxing atmosphere we crave after a getaway. But how can we replicate that at home?
Enhancing your bed's appearance is easier than you might think. With just a few clever adjustments, you can elevate your sleep space and achieve a more opulent look. It’s all about layering and selecting the right materials to emulate the fresh, inviting feel of luxury hotel accommodations.
We consulted design experts for their favorite strategies to style a bed that rivals your ideal vacation retreat...
5 Tips to Create a Luxurious Bed
If you're looking to make your bedroom feel upscale, consider your current bed ideas. If your budget allows, redesigning your bed can significantly impact your space. When done thoughtfully, it can create a lasting impression that enhances your home's elegance.
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1. Focus on Layers and Textures
Layering is essential for a luxurious bed. Think of the best hotel beds; they typically feature more than just a single comforter and pillow. Rhiannon Johns, an interior designer, puts it well:
“A sparse setup with only a duvet cover and a pair of pillowcases resembles a basic dorm room. To create an upscale bed, incorporate multiple layers. A flat sheet beneath the duvet can introduce extra texture and a splash of color if your duvet is neutral. Start with two large square pillows in the back, add two standard-sized pillows, and finish with either a super king pillow or decorative cushions at the front. For colder months, drape a throw at the foot of the bed for added warmth.” Sounds delightful.
Marie Flanigan, another designer, agrees that layering is key to an expensive-looking bed. “Luxurious bedding is all about beautiful layers. A well-styled bed is always welcoming after a long day. I recommend a high-quality sheet set as a neutral base, followed by a solid-colored coverlet or understated pattern along with matching shams based on your bed size.”
“I also like to add a duvet at the foot, preferably in soft linen, and keep decorative pillows simple, often with a single lumbar pillow for impact. For an additional layer, consider a textured throw blanket that can be swapped out seasonally,” she suggests.
2. Opt for a Neutral Foundation
Neutral colors create a serene atmosphere and always look sophisticated. Stick to a palette of creams, whites, and soft greys, layering them for depth and interest. You can also incorporate subtle patterns or lighter shades. As Rhiannon mentioned, a patterned flat sheet can add a hint of design without disrupting the simplicity—a classic stripe or gingham works well.
“Classic white bedding is unbeatable for making your bed inviting and luxurious,” says designer Naomi Astley Clarke. “100% cotton is a timeless choice, offering a crisp hotel-like feel while providing a neutral backdrop for cushions and throws. For a cozy look, layer natural materials like cotton, linen, and wool based on the season.”
“I love white bedding for its timeless elegance that suits most color schemes,” adds designer Irene Gunter. “However, a softer or muted color may be preferable in darker settings where stark contrasts are too harsh.”
“When selecting muted colors, steer clear of standard cotton bedding that can fade and appear worn. In colder months, opt for brushed cotton for durability. For summer, invest in quality linen, which is breathable and lightweight. Always request fabric samples when shopping online, as colors and textures can vary significantly from what’s displayed on screen.”
3. Forget Thread Count, Choose Texture
Previously, thread count was the gold standard for assessing sheet quality. However, modern manufacturing allows for high thread counts without exceptional quality. Shift your focus from thread count to the material itself.
Pure cotton sheets offer a crisp feel but require careful maintenance and frequent ironing to keep them looking pristine. For a more relaxed yet chic appearance, switch to linen.
“While high thread count cotton was once the luxury standard, it’s now outdated, replaced by rustic, natural linen,” Rhiannon suggests. “Linen boasts a lovely textured appearance, is breathable, cozy, and thermoregulating for year-round comfort. It’s a durable investment that can last for generations.”
4. Invest in Pillows
Even if you prefer sleeping with just one pillow, you should still have a pair of sleeping pillows (four total). This adds a plush height, creating a perfect backdrop for decorative pillows. Choose the best pillows for your needs, using one flat pillow for sleeping and another for aesthetics if you prefer a lower profile.
For decorative pillows, keep it simple. You want that layered look, but excessive pillows can be cumbersome. Stick to a couple of larger pillows, a few accent pillows, or a bolster pillow, ensuring a symmetrical arrangement.
“For an elevated look, position your pillows with the openings facing inward, so they’re not visible from the sides,” suggests Chrissie Rucker, founder of The White Company. “Small square cushions are also versatile, offering a tailored look on their own or enhancing the layered effect with larger cushions.”
5. Choose a Stylish Headboard
“I love to include a striking, custom headboard upholstered in beautiful fabric that adds pattern and color,” says designer Irene Gunter. “When designing a headboard, I consider practical aspects. You want a soft, padded headboard for comfort while reading in bed. I avoid overly regal designs that extend too high up the wall.”
“It’s also crucial to leave space above the bed for artwork or beautiful wallpaper. Additionally, I incorporate electric outlets into headboards for easy access to charging devices and lighting controls from bed.”
