Renovation Royalty Naomi Findlay's Bedroom Styling Secrets

It’s the room where we begin each day and the place we come back to in order to unwind and reset. For that reason alone, it’s no wonder that a growing number of Aussies are choosing to redo their bedroom after an extended period of lockdown.

Of the 1 in 3 Australians who say they plan on renovating their home in the next 12 months, just over a quarter will be switching up their chambers. But how do you take your bedroom from drab and dreary to chic and stylish?

Luckily, help is at hand. Interior designer and renovation royalty Naomi Findlay recently transformed the bedroom of the Waukivory Estate cottage from a run-down room into a gorgeous space filled with country charm and country comforts. We sat down with Naomi to ask for her top style tips when renovating the bedroom.

Blend the old and the new

Who doesn’t love a good piece of vintage furniture? These old-world gems are fast growing in popularity. The antique and used goods market is estimated to be worth $3.4 billion in 2021-22 — and it’s no surprise to see why.

Vintage furniture can minimise our impact on the environment and allow our homes to truly be one of a kind. However, it takes a deft hand and a keen eye to ensure that vintage doesn’t descend from shabby chic into downright shabby. That’s where working with a blend of old and new furniture comes into play.

In Bedroom 2 of the Waukivory Estate cottage, Naomi combined antique dressers and bedside tables with the Bronte Bedhead to achieve a stylish yet well-worn look. These pre-loved pieces add plenty of character, while the Bronte’s luxe Italian linen upholstery brings a contemporary touch.

Layer up!

Layers bring a relaxed and cosy vibe to any bedroom — plus, they’re a great way to accentuate the different colour combinations in your home. We’re talking fluffed up pillows in different sizes, plenty of linens and blankets, or a gorgeous throw on top of your quilt.

Naomi has done this flawlessly in each of Waukivory Estate cottage’s three bedrooms, with an abundance of soft landings to sprawl out on. To get this look in your own home, work with white as a base, then contrast this with cool hues. We love how she’s has paired a grey bedhead with crisp white linens, grey tones and blue accents to add a touch of the coast in the heart of the country.

Pro tip: Draw the eye in the room with a couple of feature pillows that stand out from the rest. Think a bolster with a unique pattern or an oversized cushion in a bold print.

Go big or go home

The secret to achieving a plush and inviting look in your bedroom? It’s all about size. Opt for a quilt that’s one size up from your bed: if your bed is a queen, select blankets and linens in a king. Not only is this a stylish way to cover up your fitted sheet, but you’ll also get a seriously decadent overflow from your bedding.

Let the light in

You can enhance the light in your bedroom with lamps and fixtures, but nothing beats good ol’ natural light. Work your floor plan around your windows to maximise the natural lighting and highlight the view — just like Naomi’s done in the Waukivory Estate cottage bedrooms.

Whether it’s a gorgeous picture window or a petite double-hung window with a peek of the outside, give full play to these when redecorating your area. For even more natural beauty, match the colour schemes of your bedroom to the scenery outside.

Work magic with mirrors

Craving more space and sun? Add a mirror. Mirrors instantly brighten up the bedroom and create the illusion of space — a win if you’re working with a petite floor plan. Place the mirror opposite or beside your window to reflect the most light into your bedroom. Alternatively, you can achieve the same effect with a door if having it near the window isn’t practical.

Looking to draw the eye? Take a leaf out of Naomi’s book and use a round mirror (or one with an arch). These contrast with the sharp angles of the bed frame and dresser and add softness to your space.

Make nature your paintbrush

Everything’s better with a dash of colour — and the same goes for the bedroom. And while you can add colour with linens and accessories, we adore how Naomi’s let Mother Nature do the work for her in the Waukivory Estate cottage.

Flowers and plants are the best ways to brighten up your space without going overboard. The classic good looks of roses work as an ideal companion for vintage furniture or a retro-inspired space. Another idea? Opt for green plants in grey or blue pots for a crowd-pleasing splash of colour.

Get thrifty with your accessories

In the Waukivory Estate cottage, Naomi has enhanced the rustic feel of the bedroom with pre-loved accessories to match. From used books to an antique print or vintage boudoir lamp, these old trinkets breathe new life in your new bedroom.

Feeling inspired? Shop our bedroom range now.