Why You May Need to Position Your Bed in Front of a Window
According to feng shui principles, positioning a bed in front of a window can disrupt the ideal layout for a restful sleep environment. The bed lacks the security and stable grounding that a solid wall provides. However, in today’s smaller homes and apartments, the layout of a room may require placing a bed in front of a window out of necessity.
While a bed in front of a window is not ideal in terms of feng shui, there are ways to enhance the look and feel of this layout. With some thoughtful design choices, you can style a bed in front of a window to create a space that still provides comfort, security, and style. This article will provide tips for styling a bed in front of a window in order to make the most of small spaces.
Use Window Treatments to Uniformly Frame the Bed
When positioning a bed in front of a window, using curtains and drapes to uniformly frame the bed can create a cohesive look. Choose floor-length curtains in a solid color or subtle pattern that complement the room. Hang the curtains wide enough to cover the entire wall with fabric on either side of the window. This will make the window blend in, rather than standing out behind the bed.
For a decorative touch, add sheer curtains inside the main curtains. Extend the sheer panels all the way from the top of the window to the ceiling. This will frame the bed vertically, drawing the eye upwards and creating a dreamy, graceful appearance. The sheer fabric softens the hard window edges and allows some daylight to filter through during the day. At night, use blackout liner curtains behind the sheers to block out light for sleeping.
With strategic use of draped fabrics, the bed in front of the window will feel like it belongs, rather than appearing randomly placed. The wall of curtained windows becomes a stunning backdrop that defines the sleeping space.
Choose the Right Headboard
Selecting the right headboard is crucial when positioning a bed in front of a window. Opt for a low profile headboard that meets the bottom window frame rather than competing with it. This creates a cohesive, intentional look.
While a low profile headboard works visually, don’t sacrifice support. Add a sturdy, solid headboard that provides the structure needed for comfortable lounging and sitting up in bed. Sturdy crafted wood or a tufted upholstered headboard are excellent choices. Avoid flimsy metal or fabric headboards that won’t provide enough back support. The headboard should be an anchor for the bed rather than blending into the window behind it.
With strategic height and sturdy construction, the right headboard can turn a bed placed in front of a window from a decorating dilemma into an asset.
Use Color Strategically
Color can play an important role in balancing the presence of a bed in front of a window. Choose paint colors that will enhance the layout rather than compete with it.
One effective approach is to paint the window trim and moldings in a color that contrasts with your wall color. For example, if you have light gray walls, consider painting the trim a crisp white or deep charcoal. The contrast frames the window and adds definition. Your eye will be drawn to the trim first, helping downplay the bed-under-window look.
This color strategy also helps anchor the bed visually. The weight of the darker trim color grounds the bed, while the lighter wall color recedes. The bed feels stable and secure.
When selecting your trim color, stick to bold hues for best results. Soft tones won’t have enough presence. Consider colors like black, navy, chocolate brown, deep red or bright white for maximum contrast. Just take care that your trim color doesn’t clash with your bedspread or become visually overwhelming. The goal is subtle enhancement, not distraction.
Draw the Eye Outward
Positioning the bed to showcase appealing views through the window is an effective way to draw the eye outward. Angle the bed so that your gaze is directed toward an attractive outdoor vista when lying in bed.
Placing the bed parallel to the bank of windows also helps extend the line of sight, making the windows the visual focus. Align one side of the bed with the windows so your eye naturally travels along the length of the windows. The windows become a decorative backdrop for the bed instead of something to avoid.
Maximize the impact of the windows by keeping them unobstructed. Avoid placing furniture directly in front of the windows. Leave breathing room around the bed so the windows aren’t crowded. Let the windows be the star and arrange the rest of the room around them.
Add Visual Interest
Surrounding the bed with multiple windows creates a dreamy, ethereal aesthetic. Consider flanking the bed on both sides with large picture windows to make it feel like the focal point. This layout envelops the bed in natural light from all angles. For a similar effect, position the bed underneath a wide skylight-like window overhead. The expansive window above evokes a peaceful, floating sensation. You’ll want to be sure the skylight has blackout shades for nighttime. When illuminated by sunbeams streaming in from all directions, the bedcommands attention. Strategically placed lights, such as sconces on the surrounding walls, can further play up the celestial vibe once the sun goes down. The goal is to make the bed feel like the centerpiece of the room by encasing it in windows.
Enhance Security
Positioning a bed in front of a window can seem vulnerable without a solid wall behind it. Take steps to reinforce security:
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Install high-quality locks on all windows near the bed. Consider adding an alarm system triggered if the windows are opened. This will provide peace of mind and prevent intruders from easily entering while you sleep.
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Choose a sturdy, reinforced headboard firmly attached to the bed frame. Avoid flimsy headboards that can detach and leave you unprotected. The solid headboard acts as a shield, adding stability and strength behind your sleeping space.
Incorporate Bedding
Add layered bedding for softness and comfort. Use different textures like soft blankets, quilts, and throws over crisp sheets to create an inviting bed. Include a variety of decorative pillows in bold patterns and rich fabrics for visual impact. Choose a plush mattress topper or pad under the bottom sheet for extra cushioning. Complementary bedding brings together the bed and window styling.
Include Decor
Decorating around the bed in front of the window can add positive energy and style. Consider the following ideas:
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Add leafy green plants like ferns or lucky bamboo on the nightstands to symbolize growth and renewal. The wood element can ground the bed.
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Hang low-maintenance artwork, tapestries, or decorative mirrors on the wall behind the bed. Choose energizing images or uplifting colors according to feng shui principles.
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Display feng shui symbols like the dragon and phoenix, yin yang circles, or five element medallions. Opt for red and purple hues to stimulate chi.
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Place pairs of table lamps on matching nightstands to create symmetry. Seek lamp shades in earth tone fabrics.
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Include a soft area rug to define the space while adding comfort underfoot. tribal or oriental patterns work well.
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Add plush pillows against the headboard in complementary colors. They provide lumbar support when sitting up in bed.
Thoughtful decor around a bed in front of a window can help transform the space into a feng shui-approved retreat.
Conclusion
A bed placed in front of a window can work with the right design choices. Utilizing window treatments like curtains and shades allows you to control both light and privacy. Selecting the ideal headboard based on the window height also helps anchor the bed. Strategic use of color on walls, trim, and decor distracts the eye from any awkward bed placement.
When styled intentionally, a bed in front of a window can still provide comfort, security, and style. With options like extending drapes to the ceiling, adding warm lighting, and framing views, this layout can feel cozy and dreamy. While a solid wall may be preferred, small spaces may require compromises. Overall, there are many effective design solutions for successfully incorporating a bed in front of a window.
