Friday 10th February

The best free weekly property & lifestyle magazine in Sussex

Issue: 563
07 February 12 - 13 February 12

Latest Homes issue 563 cover

Good Nights

Latest Interiors gets tucked in for a peaceful night with the latest trends in beds, duvets and pillows

Bed £341.57; Nightstand £145.83; Cushion £24.47, all www.freemans.com


Are you in need of a good night’s sleep? You’re not alone. We spend around a third of our lives sleeping, yet one in five of us has trouble getting to – or staying – asleep (source: Patient UK). And, since it seems that both quantity and quality of sleep impact on our health and wellbeing, a good bed can make all the difference.

Size and structure

Mikko Floor Lamp £200; Grange Sleigh Bed £799; Linden Printed Set from £20; Seattle Drawers £699; Gloss Table Lamp £80, all www.bhs.co.uk

When it comes to beds, size matters. The bigger the bed, the more space you have to spread out, especially if you share it with someone. Luckily, outsize furniture remains a strong trend, so opt for the biggest bed your space can take. Make room by choosing sleek, concealed storage and keep clutter and clothing at bay. A sprung base will give your mattress more support. Solid wood or metal beds will last longer than veneered or upholstered ones, although an upholstered headboard (with a removable, washable cover) will be comfortable.

Sleep in style

Opt for the best quality bed and mattress that you can afford; they will last longer, and help you to get a good night’s sleep. Low-level oriental and other simple, masculine styles remain popular. For a statement piece choose a modern four poster or canopy bed, and make it the central focus of your bedroom. Sleep, rest and relaxation are all part of a new ‘me time’ ethos: when the going gets tough, the tough go to bed and sleep on it for a bit. And then maybe have a lie-in…

Accessorise it

Star by Julien Macdonald Adriana Plum Bed Linen, Single £45, Double £55, King £65, Standard Pillow Case Pair £20, Oxford Pillow Case Pair £24, all www.debenhams.com

As with the bed, it’s worth investing in quality duvets, pillows and bedding. Duvets and pillows filled with natural fibres – feathers or down – are hardwearing, soft, light, and they let your skin breathe. They may be heavier than synthetic fillings, though. Mattress protectors and toppers will prolong the life of your bed, and add an extra layer of cushioning.

No bed is complete without crisp, fresh linen and sumptuous accessories. Good quality Egyptian cotton and pure Irish linen in white or cream are timeless, stylish and natural. Rougher-textured linen and soft wool in shades of biscuit, stone, midnight blue, chocolate, and off-black add colour and depth. For the finishing touch, accessorise your bed with silver, indigo or ecru throws in silk or satin, sequins, velvets and (fake) furs. Now lie back, and close your eyes.

Leave a Reply