Teal tension...

Well hello there! So much has happened over the summer, I almost feel like I've lived through a whole separate existence! Hence there has been very little time to devote to blogging, and I am only just catching my breath. My parents, sister and brother-in-law came over to the UK to visit, and for us it was a very special time spent making memories. Sadly we had two bereavements in the family, as well as that of a very dear friend, so life has dealt us a few blows too....But, it makes you appreciate every single day for the gift that it is, and you can't help but feel challenged to seize every moment of opportunity that comes knocking at your door...

Over the summer I have also been very fortunate to participate in a Christmas feature for Style at Home Magazine which will hit the shelves in November, but more about that later! As the children are back at school and the normal rhythm of life is returning, I thought I'd share a quick bedroom update with you today.

Last summer we re-decorated the master bedroom by injecting a bit of drama with a dark feature wall, and a few pieces of furniture was given a new lease of life with a lick of paint too. I have never felt completely at ease with the whole scheme, as I have always felt that something was lacking. So, after a little planning and tinkering, I have made a few inexpensive and easy changes that somehow makes it all look and feel more cohesive. The first thing I did was to rethink the most important element of any bedroom scheme...the bedding! I wanted something less sugary and pale than the existing pink floral duvet cover we had on the bed. I found a fabulous linen set that looks and feels more in keeping with the darker colour scheme. I think it is adding more depth and texture, thus creating a more grown-up feel.

I visited the Milton Keynes Handmade, Vintage and Retro Fair at the weekend, and came away with the most charming 1960's floral prints. They were an absolute snip of a bargain, but I am very aware that they would have been a considered purchase for someone back in the day, as people gave a lot more thought to any new item for the home in an era of frugal living. These now have pride of place on the wall behind the bed.

By adding a few new touches, such as some freshly cut sprigs from the garden, and a lush green plant, the room is feeling more inviting and 'pulled together'. A favourite tip of mine is to peruse the bathroom accessories isles in shops like Dunelm, where tumblers used for tooth brushing and rinsing come in all shapes and styles, and they won't break the bank. These are perfect little vases for small posies on the bedside table. They also look fabulous grouped together in odd numbers for a quirky display.

I am very pleased with the overall feel of the room now. It certainly is a haven of relaxation now, perfect for reading in and listening to some old records while daydreaming away...

As always this is a work in progress, but homes always are, aren't they?

Blessings,

Tania