Elegance Begins in the Bedroom… and (Doesn’t) End in the Bathroom

Ladies and gentlemen, hand on heart—do you make your bed every morning? I bet most of you do! Well, I have to confess - neither do I.

There’s a famous saying by American Admiral McRaven: “If you want to change the world, start by making your bed in the morning.” Growing up, my parents insisted that I couldn’t leave my room until I’d made my bed. After all, how can you expect to have a successful day if you can’t handle such a simple task? Later, when I shared a bed with my sister, I was always the one making it. It was the same in many other things—I was the one who saw everything through to the end. And when I later shared a bed with my partner, nothing changed. So, dear friends, listen to your parents—or your motivational gurus!

But that’s not the whole story. If you want to feel more than “just” human and truly thrive in daily life, it really begins in your bedroom. We spend over a third of our lives in bed; it’s where we process our thoughts from the day, recharge through sleep, and wake with new ideas. The very first moments of the day can shape how we feel for hours to come. But it’s not just about making the bed—it might start even earlier, with something as simple as the pajamas we wear. An elegant woman in her bedroom looks like this: (image), or like this: (image).

I’m usually the one on the right. And believe me, I still feel elegant—not because of my pajamas or whether the bed is made, but because of the bedroom itself. When I began designing my dream home during maternity leave, the bedroom was the very first space I focused on. Everything else fell into place naturally. The bedroom is my sanctuary, my intimate refuge where I must feel my best. It reflects everything I love most.

When designing a bedroom, three things are essential: comfort, privacy, and individuality. Comfort naturally starts with the bed. Beyond choosing a quality bed, it’s important to consider the bedding—mattress quality is key, but don’t overlook cozy, high-quality duvets and sheets. Comfort in the bedroom also comes from other textiles like rugs and curtains. A soft rug is perfect for a bedroom—there’s nothing like stepping barefoot onto a plush carpet to start your day. But when selecting a rug, remember that dust mites accumulate, especially under the bed, which we breathe in overnight. Avoid synthetic fiber rugs. Wool and cotton are the best choices, but even then, frequent vacuuming is a must.

Curtains also deserve careful attention. Polyester curtains trap toxins and dust, common allergy triggers. Linen and cotton curtains are the healthier choice—and yes, cotton velvet curtains exist too!

Curtains and sheer drapes serve another vital purpose: privacy, even from daylight. Blackout curtains are an excellent option. Sheer curtains add softness, especially if your bedroom doesn’t face a private garden. Daytime privacy is just as important. If you think sheer curtains must be polyester, consider linen sheer curtains—they’re a fantastic alternative! Though, I admit I might forgive polyester sheer curtains with a wink. ;)

Privacy also extends to doors. If you want to brighten your home with glass bedroom doors, privacy can be maintained with attractive door curtains, which also make the room cozier. Just be mindful of external lights if you share your home with someone who goes to bed later than you.

Finally, individuality. Your bedroom must feel wonderful, surrounded by what helps you sleep peacefully and inspires you. Whether that’s your favorite color, pattern, or a clean, neutral space, the bedroom is your personal haven. But beware of too many small items and surfaces—they collect dust. A creative headboard, nightstand, lamp, or wardrobe doors can be enough to transform your bedroom into an elegant retreat where you feel your best.

And it (doesn’t) end in the bathroom! Even the most private spaces—where you feel most yourself—can radiate elegance. Soft wallpaper, soothing colors, gentle lighting, and a beautiful mirror can turn your bathroom into a place where you feel comfortable and radiant. Learn more about bathroom design.