Pastel bedroom ideas

Every time spring rolls around, we have one thing on our mind​: pastels!

If you’re looking for an excuse to give your bedroom a makeover, consider this your sign to play around with some pretty pastels.

There are so many reasons to love pastel shades. The colours of spring – a time for renewal and fresh starts – pastels can breathe new life into your space. They have a charming quality that makes them both calming and energising all at once. Plus, they’re far more versatile than you may think.

Ready to learn how to design a pastel bedroom that’s fit for springtime? Let’s hop to it…

Pastel colours may be soft in hue, but they bring big impact. And, if you ask us, pastels shouldn’t just be reserved for springtime. Pastels have the magical effect of making a space feel light, cheerful and airy – and who doesn’t want that feeling all year round?

On a more technical note, when we look at colour psychology, it’s actually thought that lighter shades like light yellow can lift your mood and alleviate your stress, whilst pale blue is the colour of calm. So, if you’re looking for a new bedroom colour palette that can quite literally calm your nervous system, pastels may be your best bet. Thanks, science!

Pastels and patterns are a match made in heaven – and there are so many wonderful prints to choose from! We love linear prints like checkerboards and gingham in pastels because they are super versatile. Try adding a gingham duvet cover to your bed for an old-school chintzy charm, or why not go for a checkered rug to give your space a preppy and playful feature at your feet?

Stripes are another favourite of ours when it comes to designing a pastel bedroom. See how beautiful our Sophie Conran Celeste Divan Bed Base and Headboard in blush pink and white stripes looks above. Add this statement piece to your bedroom, and it’s sure to bring continuous joy.

Or, for an even more feminine feel, give some florals a go – but more on those later…

For a masterclass in using prints in bedroom design, check out our pattern guide, with expert insight from Dreams’ design partner Sophie Conran.

Ready to create the perfect pastel bedroom? Here are a few of our favourite looks…

1. Pairing pastels with neutrals for a serene sleep space

Whilst pastels are by no means loud, too much colour in your bedroom can keep you up at night. Not what you want for your relaxing sleep space! That’s why it’s a good idea to pair your pretty pastel shades with some calming neutral shades like beige, grey, cream, or even white.

These dreamy neutral tones will help to ground your space for the perfect environment to unwind after a long day. Look how we’ve styled our beautiful salmon pink TEMPUR® Linford Upholstered Electric Ottoman Bed Frame in a neutral setting – whilst the pink bed brings a pop of dopamine, the beige backdrop and accessories tone everything down to just the right level.

2. Mixing pastel pinks and sage greens for a soft, romantic feel

One of our favourite colour combos is pastel pink with sage green. This harmonious duo is ideal for a bedroom design, as they perfectly balance eachother. Whilst the pale pink brings a fun, feminine vibe, the sage green is grounding and offers a connection to nature.

To show what we mean, take a look at how we’ve styled our Louanna bed with a green backdrop, matching pink cushions and curtains, and leafy green houseplants. The overall look is beautifully balanced. Just divine!

3. Create a feature wall with pastel paint or wallpaper design

You may have already considered painting your walls in a pastel shade, but how about a feature wall? Since pastels are naturally muted, this is a subtle way to bring bags of character to your bedroom.

Whether you’re envisioning an all-out floral mural behind your bed or some sophisticated pinstripes for an elegant feel, there are plenty of ways to tone it up or down.

4. Layer textures with boucle, linen, and cotton in pastel tones

Don’t forget about your fabrics! When you use a mix of different materials in a room, it creates a plethora of delicious depth and texture. So, to add some oomph to your pastel bedroom, we’d suggest layering contrasting materials.

For example, a fuzzy bouclé fabric in baby pink creates an instant cosy vibe, whilst soft silks and cotton can create a more elegant ambience. When styling your bed, consider layering your bedding with fluffy pastel throws, blankets and tassel cushions – the more textures, the better!

5. Try mix-and-matched colour blocking

Credit: @afterglow.horizons

For those who are anti-patterns but hate bland designs, how about a bit of colour blocking? This is an easy way to use more than one shade in a bedroom, without overwhelming the space with lots of busy prints.

We adore how @afterglow.horizons has styled our fabulous orange Gallway sofa bed in a room with two-toned pink walls. The use of two different shades of pale pink brings visual interest in a soft and subtle way. The pastel pinks gently clash with the orange sofa, resulting in a joyful design. Bravo!

6. Lean into the cottagecore aesthetic

Sometimes, when designing a bedroom, it can be helpful to focus on a particular design style. The cottagecore aesthetic is a fabulous choice if you want to use a lot of pastel shades in your boudoir.

Known for its relaxed outdoorsy vibe, cottagecore is all about slowing down and taking inspiration from the countryside. Lean into this rustic charm by adding some mix-matched pastel bed sheets, retro artwork and plenty of florals. If your bedroom feels like it should be overlooking a remote farm or woodland forest, you’re on the right track!

7. Experiment with darker accents for a sophisticated look

Don’t be afraid to add some darker tones to your pastel bedroom! In fact, dark accents like navy, plum, and brown can complement pastel shades beautifully.

Make sure not to overwhelm your space with too much darkness. Just a few simple accent pieces, like some cushions, a rug or shelving, can do the trick and provide the right amount of contrast.

8. Add florals for a touch of the outside world

It would be rude not to mention florals, since so many flowers are naturally pastel-coloured! It just makes sense. Plus, there are so many ways to do it. Whether you opt for bedding that’s covered in bluebells and lavender, a picture-perfect daisy print (like the one above) or a gorgeous wallpaper adorned with rosy tulips, there are endless choices to turn your sleep space into a blossoming meadow!

With these simple pastel bedroom ideas and design tips, you can create a sleep space that feels calm, balanced, and full of happy energy. Whether you choose to add a few sweet accessories or go all-out in soft shades, you can’t go too far wrong. Your peaceful pastel bedroom awaits…