A friend of mine recently moved in with her partner and they decided to redecorate their new home - starting with the bedroom. However, it wasn’t as easy as originally anticipated; she’s not a fan of dark colour scheme and he is totally against “girly colours” and pastel shades. So I decided to step in and share my expert advice! 

 

Naturally your ultimate wish is to create a relaxing haven that you can both appreciate. 'Sophisticated chic' is a style that should work to help create the perfect compromise which I’m hoping some of you can also relate to. Brown and beige tones are the prefect shades to use in the bedroom as they are gender neutral but will work with contemporary and more classic styles.

 

Crown’s Classic Collection is the perfect place to start selecting shades. Besides the elegant array of browns such as Classic Buff and Classic Taupe, you will find paler tones such as Elegant Cool. This shade will serve as a canvas on which to infuse both your styles. If you can agree, I also recommend painting a segment of the wall, or a feature wall, in Elegant Smoke or Elegant Mode to introduce some warmth and personality.

 

My Designer Mist range from Crown’s Designer Collection is another option. Why not team these subtle greens with a hint of grey to give a classic look. Add cream or beige furnishings and it should appeal to you both.

 

While these shades are not especially feminine, you can easily introduce your more decorative style through accessories. If brown is your choice of wall colour, you could attempt to sneak in some “girly colours” with some throws, and choice of curtains. If soft purples or pinks do not pass the test, aubergine or rich olive greens may do the trick. Add as much texture as possible to get a comfortable feel. Rugs, thick curtains and bedspreads will add to the cosy atmosphere.

 

If a grey and purple colour scheme is your preferred choice, a simple cream bedspread will work beautifully. Light fixtures are also important. Softer lighting will create a more relaxing atmosphere so use no stronger than 40watt bulbs in your bedside lamps. Frame your favourite pictures, and family photographs to add dual personality to the room. Black and white pictures in particular create a sense of romance but are still quite modern.

 

For the ladies, if you are allowing your partner to display some of his gadgets then I suggest you designate a corner of the room solely for you! Add a dressing table with a mirror for your keepsakes and personal items. Dressing tables come in a variety of styles and sizes to suit all tastes. You could argue that with this addition, there will be fewer fights over the bathroom mirror in the morning!

 

I hope these tips will help you to incorporate both aspects of your personality. A bedroom in particular should be a room where you can both relax. Be sure to listen to each other’s views so that you both get a bedroom that you love. With a bit of patience and careful planning, it is very achievable.

 

Happy decorating!

 

Neville