Creating a bedroom oasis

Maggie Burns knows a thing or two about creating a beautiful, yet functional space for sleep & restoration. She shares with us her simple do’s and don’ts for designing a relaxing atmosphere. (Good news if you’re looking to refresh your space for spring!)

Can you share about where your passion for interior design began? 

I spent the early years of my career in the fashion industry as a buyer for a few big department stores and quickly learned that the design of the spaces I was selling from interested me more than the products I was selling. I loved how the designs of certain stores could totally transport you and affect your mood.

At Baloo, we view sleep holistically, and our environment can be a factor of achieving quality rest. What effect do you think the design of a space, or lack thereof, has on our mental health, stress levels, and sleep quality? 

I think our environments have a huge effect on all aspects of our mental health and well being. I’m kind of a nightmare to travel with because I’m really particular about where I stay and where I want to spend my time, especially on vacation! I want to be surrounded by thoughtfully designed spaces that feel warm and inviting but uncluttered and calming. 

"I think our environments have a huge effect on all aspects of our mental health and well being."

Do you have any simple, realistic tips for utilizing organization in order to achieve better mental health? 

Organization is something I struggle with even as an interior designer, especially in a New York City apartment without infinite storage space. I think the key is being mindful of your inventory and planning accordingly in terms of storage solutions. Decluttering is great but it’s also important to be realistic about what you do have and find ways to accommodate it. 

What colors do you feel create the most calming environment in a room? Do you have a go-to palette for a bedroom? Are there fabrics you like to work with, especially for a bedroom? 

For the most part I love to use neutrals for a primary bedroom. Anything too white can feel cold and uninviting so I lean towards creams, grays and taupes- with a pop of color in the artwork or a throw blanket. I love using a limewash finish on bedroom walls- it adds a really nice and subtle texture to the space. Drapery is also something that I think can really make or break a bedroom, I love using really lightweight fabrics like a linen or sheer to create a dreamy atmosphere.

Do you have any cozy staples that you incorporate into every bedroom? 

Every room is different but I think a commonground, especially when working with mostly neutrals, is to layer as many different textures and materials as possible. Rugs and blankets that make you feel cozy, especially weighted blankets (like Baloo's) are a must!

As a busy mama with a little one, how would you describe your relationship to the design or choices for your own bedroom and the relationship between design choices and relaxation and sleep?  

"As a mom to two young boys, I’ve learned to deal with clutter and chaos throughout the rest of my house but knew I wanted our bedroom to feel like an oasis and escape so prioritized storage solutions in this room to help keep it organized. " 

What are some parting words you’d like to leave for anyone looking give their bedroom a refresh for the new season? 

Think about the spaces where you feel like your best and most relaxed self and go from there.

About Maggie 

Maggie Burns is a New York City based designer with a love for creating special spaces for her clients. She specializes in creating bespoke spaces that draw inspiration from various aesthetics to create a modern-meets-traditional look that is catered to suit each project. She loves collaborating with talented artisans and makers both locally and globally to infuse her spaces with quality craftsmanship and custom pieces unique to each client. 

maggierichmonddesign.com

Photo Credit: Genevieve Garruppo