When was the last time you updated your master bedroom? Lately I’ve been asking myself that same question.
Although we only recently moved into this house, our bedding has been the same for about ten years. It’s high quality, so it still looks good, and its neutral classic style has worked well. Still, after seeing it for so long, I’m ready for a refresh.
Sometimes all I want is to walk into the room and notice something new and cheerful—maybe a fresh color palette, a quirky lamp, or a patterned pillow that livens the space.
To make decorating more fun, I play a little game: I walk down a hallway and then peek quickly back around the corner into a room to see my first honest reaction.
If that quick glimpse makes me smile, the room is working—it’s inspiring and peaceful. If it makes me say “meh” and scrunch my nose, I know something needs to change. I then swap out items, rearrange, or add a new accent until the next peek makes me smile.
It’s a silly, instinctive method, but it works. My decorating process is basically trial and quick visual feedback: if it delights me at a glance, it’s a keeper; if not, I change it right away.
How to refresh a room in three simple steps
The quick and effective Inspired Room approach
Step one. Walk down a hallway, strolling casually and taking in the space.
Step two. When you pass a room, do a quick double take—peek back into the room and take note of your immediate reaction.
Step three. Ask yourself: did that sight make you feel happy and calm? If yes, move on with satisfaction. If not—if you thought “meh” and felt a little cringe—make a change. Add a new accessory, swap a pillow, move a lamp. Repeat the double-take until the room delights you.
The end.
It sounds goofy, but that method is exactly how I decorate. It’s fast, honest, and surprisingly effective.
If you want more tips on creating a calm master bedroom—especially if you have kids at home—I wrote a guest post with practical ideas for making a sanctuary you’ll love. I also wrote about my approach to living authentically at home; I always welcome comments and feedback.
One last confession: during a recent double take I heard myself say “MEH” and immediately stopped putting away holiday decorations so I could start rearranging furniture. I’ll share the results in another post.
Have you done any double takes lately?
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More ideas for decorating your bedroom.