The Ultimate Guide to Bedroom Design for Better Sleep

Sleep is crucial to our well-being, affecting everything from mood to overall health. But did you know that the design of your bedroom can significantly impact your sleep quality? 

At Bradfords, we believe that a well-designed space can help you rest better, so we’ve put together a guide on creating the ultimate sleep sanctuary.

Colour psychology plays a huge role in relaxation. Bold and bright colours can be energising, while softer hues help create a more calming environment. 

To promote restful sleep, opt for muted tones such as:

• Soft blues and greens are known for their calming effects
• Neutrals like beige, grey, or warm whites  which create a serene, minimalist feel
• Gentle pastels which can add warmth without overstimulating the senses

If you’re not ready to commit to repainting, consider incorporating these colours through bedding, artwork, or accessories such as the BY NIGHT Painting, AVA Cushion or the TIBETAN Lamb Hide in Oatmeal. 

Lighting can make or break your bedroom’s sleep-friendly environment. Too much harsh lighting can interfere with melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep. 

The key is to layer your lighting effectively:

• Use warm, dimmable lighting to create a soft, cosy glow.
• Avoid harsh overhead lights before bedtime, instead opt for lamps or wall lights.
• Install blackout curtains or blinds to block out external light sources. 

By adjusting your lighting, you can create a bedroom that supports your natural sleep-wake cycle. 

Shop Lighting. 

The foundation of good sleep starts with comfortable, high-quality furniture. Your bed is, of course, the most important element, but other pieces play a role too:

• Mattress & Bed Frame: A good mattress tailored to your sleeping position can improve sleep quality significantly. Shop Beds
• Bedside Tables: Keep essentials like books, a lamp, and a glass of water within reach. Shop Bedside Tables.
• Sofas & Seating: A comfy sofa or armchair can create a relaxation corner for reading or winding down before bed.  Shop Accent Chairs

A beautifully dressed bed isn’t just aesthetically pleasing — it also encourages better sleep hygiene. 

• Opt for high-thread-count cotton or linen sheets for breathability. Sheet Society is our current pick for amazing sheets at a great price.
• Use a weighted blanket to ease anxiety and promote deeper rest. Sleep Heavy have an amazing range of chunky knit weighted blankets that are as stylish as they are practical.
• Layer plush throws and cushions to add texture and comfort. 

External noise can be a major sleep disruptor, but a few simple design choices can create a more peaceful space:

• Engage your senses for relaxation – Calming scents like lavender, chamomile, and eucalyptus can help signal to your body that it’s time to unwind. Use diffusers or candles to infuse your space with soothing aromas. Shop Candles
• Soften sound with textiles – Rugs, curtains, and upholstered headboards absorb noise, reducing disruptions for a quieter, more restful atmosphere. Shop Rugs
• Mask distractions with soothing sound – A white noise machine, fan, or gentle sleep playlist can provide a consistent background hum to help you drift off.

By layering scent, texture, and sound, you can create a bedroom that feels like a true retreat—calm, quiet, and primed for rest.

In today’s digital world, screen time before bed can interfere with sleep. Try these simple changes:

• Remove TVs, tablets, and bright screens from your bedroom.
• Use a traditional alarm clock instead of your phone to minimise blue light exposure. We really love the Lexon Flip Clock from The Iconic.
• Establish a bedtime routine — reading, meditation, or journaling can signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down. Check out this mindfulness journal from Forget Me Not, an awesome New Zealand-based business. 

A tech-free bedroom helps your mind associate the space with relaxation.

To further inspire your bedroom design, here are three distinct mood board themes that showcase Bradfords products in different settings:

A curated selection of soft neutrals, plush textures, and understated elegance. Featuring the NEYO Bed by Alf DaFre, KARAKA Wool Rug, and PITCHER Dining Chair with TIBETAN Lamb Hide, this look balances comfort with contemporary style. Accents like the ONDATA Bedside Table, LUCI Table Lamp, and AVA Cushions in muted tones complete the tranquil aesthetic.

A sophisticated blend of rich textures and deep, grounding hues. The FLUFF Bed by Bonaldo sets the tone for indulgent relaxation, complemented by the ULURU Rug and STEP Oil Painting. Dark wood tones from the KENNEDY Bedside and the soft glow of the ALTON Table Lamp add warmth, while the MONA Accent Chair and VELVET PIPED Cushion bring plush elegance to this refined sanctuary.

A tranquil retreat inspired by earthy tones and organic textures. Featuring the SELINE Bed, LELAND Rug, and BOHEMIA Oil Painting, this look embraces natural warmth and effortless elegance. Accents like the RIM Bedside by Alf DaFre, JOSEFINE Table Lamp, and soft layers of CASSIA and SERENE Cushions create a cosy yet refined atmosphere.