Dream On - WFSB 3 Connecticut

Back to Basics

You can't get more versatile than this: a white coverlet, "wow" shams, and a same-color blanket. Need a new look? Just change the shams and blanket.

GO ROUND A tiered table borrowed from the living room makes a handsome nightstand. Ideal bedside height is 24 to 30 inches, same as most side tables.

NIGHT LIGHT Try a small-scale chandelier over the bed, about where you would hang a sconce. Soften the bare bulbs with clip-on shades, just a few dollars each.

MAKE A CASE To update your bed on a budget, focus on what shows. Keep your sheets but buy new cases with a color border. They freshen the look of any bed.

Match Game

A mix of colors stays restful when they're all more or less the same intensity. Here, the wall color comes from the lilac detail in the comforter, and the shams and bedside table are the same apple green.

GROWN UP Pastels can slip into kiddie territory. If that's not your goal, cut the sweetness with plenty of neutrals—a braided rug, an oatmeal-color throw, and woven baskets.

DOUBLE TAKE A reversible comforter gives two looks for the money and a nice shot of color when the top is folded down. 

MULTIPURPOSE A petite computer desk makes a function-packed nightstand. Tuck away lip balm, remote controls, and other necessities on the pullout keyboard tray

SMART MOVE A sconce frees up nightstand space and swings overhead for reading. Best, this one is plug-and-play—no electrician needed.

Get the Blues

A one-color scheme is easy on the eyes and easy to pull off. Just vary the intensity of the color by keeping walls a couple shades lighter than bedding.

IN THE BAG Bed-in-a-bag sets are a good value but can look too perfectly matched. Easy fix: Pop a second set of shams in back and a fun accent pillow in front.

PRETTY NEAT Stash magazines and paperbacks in colorful document boxes. Use ceramic cachepots and bowls to hold jewelry and eyeglasses.

QUIET PLEASE Bold pattern on both the walls and bed calls for a light touch with accessories. A clear glass lamp and artwork in white frames are quietly elegant.