Festive furnishings

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Snug as a bug: Cushions and layers of blankets and throws can turn an ordinary bed into a warm winter haven

CHRISTMAS is all about getting together with family members and friends, which often involves having guests to stay for a few days.

While parties and pantomimes, extravagant lunches and present swapping are important, nothing beats the pleasure to be had from a good night’s sleep.

The bedroom is a personal, private space and one where many people spend a lot of time when they’re home. During the festive season it becomes a space where guests can escape to for a bit of peace and quiet – essential if nerves are starting to fray.

So when it comes to decorating the bedroom, choose a colour scheme that appeals to you and your partner, and which makes you – and hopefully your guests, feel relaxed.

One idea is to take inspiration by schemes used in hotel bedrooms that you’ve stayed in and felt instantly comfortable and chilled.

As a guide, soft or neutral colours are suitably soothing, but contrasting those with a deeper shade on perhaps the bedhead wall can be stunning.

Deep plums and rich pinks are fashionable this season, although men may prefer darker chocolate or khaki backdrops.

Keep the peace by reflecting both your tastes. Use a neutral background and then pick out colour preferences in the bedding and accessories so they can easily be changed to suit taste, mood and season.

The bed is the focus of any bedroom so it should be comfortable and inviting, even if your guests are staying in a bed-settee, and be dressed to suit the season.

A winter bed works well with a warm duvet, and layers of cosy blankets. A nine-tog duvet with two to three blankets, with cotton, linen or the warmer cotton flannel sheets, topped off with a warm, thick bedspread, will make bedtime something to look forward to.

When dressing a bed, reveal a generous amount of each layer to avoid it looking fussy. Place the pillows on the bed with the open ends of the pillowcase towards the middle. This way the openings cannot be seen from the side.

A decorative quilt, bedspread, throw or blanket will finish the bed off beautifully. Fold it neatly and drape it over the end. Warm, cosy fabrics like mohair or velvet are perfect for this time of year.

And don’t forget the cushions. On most double beds keep the cushions in the front smaller and only use big, square pillows at the back against the headboard. But if you have a tall or oversized headboard, the big square ones will work well in front.

A word of warning though . . . by turning your bedroom into a peaceful haven, you are in danger of making your guests feel very special and wanted, which may just mean you are nominated to host the family gathering again next year . . .