bedroom

Photo: Victoria Pearson, designed by Kathryn Ireland

Feel free to mix three (or more) different patterns—just try to link them with common hues.
Bedroom

Photo: Thinkstock

Bathing an entire room in one color—from walls to sheets and pillows—can be more soothing than you think.
photographs

Photo: Thinkstock

Black-and-white photographs are a great option for a vibrant space, where a bright painting might overwhelm.
bedroom

Photo: Thinkstock

To keep bright colors from overwhelming a room, make the bedding and two walls bright white.
blanket

Photo: Thinkstock

"If you choose a solid color for your bed," says design expert Nate Berkus, "keep things interesting by experimenting with textures. Try combining felted wool with cottons and knits."
bedroom

Photo: Thinkstock

Establish a harmonious palette—then energize it with a single item in an opposing shade.
pillows

Photo: Kana Okada

Serene solids provide a great foundation, but a quirky patterned pillow is an inexpensive, low-commitment way to add pop.

Next: 5 small ways to give your bedroom a big boost