Edition 4: Why aren’t we doing this in our own homes?

Plus the 5 trends to ditch this holiday season!

Living a luxurious life isn’t just for vacation! In this edition of The Design Edit, our monthly newsletter, we’ll discuss how to add a bit of luxury to your home.

Tired of the same old tacky Christmas decor year after year, but don’t know where to start? Sentimental doesn’t have to mean stale! I’m begging you… take note of these 5 Holiday Trends to Ditch this Season.

The magic of the season comes from the realistic details, not the cartoons (Just like Santa Claus, kids want to see the real beard and belly ya know!). So when in doubt, opt for realistic decor choices over all other options.

This or That Holiday images of old vs new trends

Not your average lamp, that’s what! If you’ve been paying attention to the newest lamps hitting the showroom floors, you’ve noticed that they aren’t the same styles you’ve seen the last 10 years. They are BIG, bold and out of this world! Materials are pushing the limits of what the traditional lamps have been. Now we’re seeing marble lamps carved in bulbous shapes, and linen lamps (not just shades!), and various uses of wood and steel. Lamps are becoming works of art rather than just pieces to illuminate surfaces.

The common trend - scale. Gone is the day of tiny lamps. It’s time to embrace an overscaled lamp that makes a statement. Here are some of my favorites of the moment.

Bold and Big lamps trending in 2024

Trend Alert: Big & Funky Lamps

I’ve had the opportunity to travel a ton this year and stay in some really amazing hotels in Iceland, France, Germany, and Korea to name a few. The experience of these luxury hotels is the total package and no detail is left unnoticed. From the exquisitely designed bedding, to the luxurious bath robes, to the scent in the lobby, to the layers of drapery perfectly framing the exterior views… I could keep going with the level of detail. The look, the feel, the smell, the sound, the experience is one you never want to leave.

Photos from Amy's travel adventures

It left me thinking: Why aren’t we doing this in our own homes? Why do we leave this heavenly experience only for the days of vacation? So, here I am saying, it’s time for a bedroom upgrade to create a bedroom environment that you never want to leave!

Here are my 3 tips to get your bedroom upgrade started!

  1. Don’t skimp on the sheets! Start your bedroom transformation by investing in high-quality, luxurious bedding. Opt for high thread count sheets, plush duvets, and comfortable pillows that mimic the cloud-like feel of hotel beds. Consider neutral or calming colors for the bedding to create a serene atmosphere. Pay attention to layering – add a throw or a quilt at the foot of the bed for an extra touch of luxury. The goal is to create a haven of comfort that invites you to unwind and relax.

  2. Control the lighting. Lighting plays a crucial role in creating a hotel-like ambiance. Instead of relying solely on harsh overhead lighting, incorporate ambient lighting options. Consider bedside lamps with warm, soft bulbs to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. You can also add LED strips or subtle recessed lighting to highlight specific features in the room. Layer blackout shades or drapes with sheer drapery for softness. The key is to create a layered lighting design that allows you to adjust the brightness according to your mood, just like the carefully curated lighting in upscale hotel rooms.

  3. Add a Scent and Sensory Experience. Elevate your bedroom experience by paying attention to the sensory details. Invest in a high-quality, soothing room fragrance or diffuser to recreate the pleasant scents often found in luxury hotels. Choose calming scents like lavender or eucalyptus to promote relaxation. Additionally, add tactile elements such as soft, plush rugs or carpets to enhance the sensory experience when walking barefoot in your bedroom. Consider the sound aspect as well – whether it's a white noise machine, a playlist of calming tunes, or even a small fountain, introducing soothing sounds can contribute to the overall tranquility of your space.

By combining these three tips – luxurious bedding, ambient lighting, and a thoughtful sensory experience – you can transform your bedroom into a personal sanctuary that rivals the comfort and elegance of a high-end hotel. Now, every night can feel like a luxurious getaway.

P.S. This is not a substitute for a vacation! You still need one of those too 🙂 

Why reserve the luxury of a hotel-like experience for vacations when we deserve a daily escape in the comfort of our own homes?”

- Amy Rebekah, Interior Designer

Reader’s Question: How can I add luxury to our small bedroom?

Three luxuriously designed bedrooms

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