A modern bedroom scheme can follow a number of themes.
Even once you've decided on a modern look, you are still left with myriad possibilities from retro-mod to sleek ultra-mod. Think about how you want to feel in the room. If you want to be relaxed, choose a more calming theme. If you want to be energized as soon as you wake up in the morning, choose a theme with vibrance and vitality. Yet your bedroom should be a reflection of you, so pick colors, furniture and accessories that speak to your soul, not just something to match a picture in a magazine.
Zen Retreat
Choose natural colors and textures for a Zen theme.
For a soothing haven-like feel, try a Zen theme. Make use of natural light by keeping curtains sheer or installing bamboo shades that let sunlight through. Incorporate wood furniture, either natural or stained, that is long and low with subdued colors except for one or two bright accents. Keep decoration to a minimum. Place a folding screen to block out a corner for storage or laundry, but the room itself should remain uncluttered. A wood floor will complement a Zen retreat, or add a woven reed mat instead of an area rug.
Retro-Mod
Retro-mod is all about fun with prints.
The retro-mod look combines the innovation of today with the best in design from the late 1950s and early 1960s. Shapes are asymmetrical and futuristic, and colors are bright and layered. Plastic is a huge element in this theme, so use it everywhere you can. Silliness is a big part of the room, so don't be afraid of lucite lamps, shag rugs, faux fur pillows and corduroy bedspreads. Repeat Sputnik and boomerang shapes throughout, and the walls can be as crazy as you like. Don't settle for flat color; paint a mural or use wall decals. The retro-mod look is about self-expression.
Ultra-Modern Sophisticate
Ultra-modern sophisticate themes require sleek lines and minimal decoration.
For a sophisticated modern theme, the key is minimalism. Hide lighting, either recessed or behind raised wall panels, and use strong but plain colors. Black and white are popular here, so repeat them with tonal variations. Use furniture that is sleek but cohesive. Choose either sharp angles or organic curves, but stick with one throughout the room. Keep the walls plain with the exception of a large print or two that echoes the colors in the rest of the room. Do not overdo it with accessories. Hide any electronics in the room when not in use. Use luxury fabrics such as leather and suede. A flokati area rug adds a touch of variety in both texture and color.
Industrial Chic
Heavily textured walls play well into the industrial chic theme.
The industrial look is all about refined grunge. Think of heavy textures, jagged edges and unfinished materials. This look works in rooms with brick walls, or use stucco to create your own wall texture. Nothing should be polished or shiny, and add furniture that is distressed. Select wrinkled linens, and stain concrete floors. This theme is usually worked in white with shades of gray and beige, but feel free to add splashes of fluorescent colors for interest. Rough textures are key here. This look originated in converted factory lofts in London and New York, but it can be recreated in almost any space.
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