A space fit for dreams

The problem
The owners wanted to decorate their bedroom in an antique French style. They already had the right furniture and décor accessories, but they felt the room lacked warmth and charm.

A space fit for dreams

Our solution
We painted the walls and melamine cupboards in this bedroom with Dulux Wash 'n Wear. We used Starlit Night no 5, a soft lilac, to draw attention to the wall behind the bed.

Brackensalts no 5, a neutral shade of cream, was applied to the other walls. The bed and bedside tables were treated with a special paint technique for a distressed look, and we used luxurious bed linen and other small décor accessories to complete the picture.

A space fit for dreams

Lace curtain
A lace curtain adds to the romantic look, and creates privacy. Use a length of lace curtaining that is large enough to drape softly.

Remember to add seam allowances right round as well as for the curtain rail at the top.

A space fit for dreams

Luxurious layers
Use layers of fabric on the bed, and don't hesitate to combine different throws and cushions. Concentrate on contrasting textures and play with detail such as pleats, tassels, sequins and appliqué.

A space fit for dreams

Ageing treatment
Give your existing furniture an aged look by first painting it with cream-coloured paint, then leaving it to dry.

Use coarse sandpaper to remove the paint from the edges and other areas that would naturally show signs of wear and tear. We used Dulux Pearlglo Brackensalts no. 6 for the bed and bedside tables.

We added antique-style handles and suspended a crystal from each. For a more opulent look, use a dry paintbrush to apply gold craft paint in places (the same technique we used for the chandelier).

Compiled by: Marlize Lotz from Ideas magazine
Photography: Chris Lötter