Simple steps to a perfectly made bed

A sumptuous, inviting bed is an imperative in living well and, as the centrepiece of a bedroom, it is also an imperative that it looks good. Whether you’re going for a minimalist bed that takes a minute to dress in the morning, or a bed dressed for maximum comfort and design, here are tips to get inspired.

The basics for a well-made bed include a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, a blanket, a coverlet of choice, sleeping cushions and decorative cushions, or pillow shams.

The making of a good bed starts with a good ironing job – pressed linens are crisp linens! To make a beautiful bed, begin with tucking a fitted sheet tightly around the mattress. Pull it taut and tuck the edges beneath the mattress then drape the flat sheet by centering it on the bed with equal overhang on either side and aligning the top edge of the sheet with the top edge of the mattress. Once the flat sheet is in place lay a blanket over it and ensure that the bottom and side edges of the blanket are even with the flat sheet. Now, tuck the flat sheet and the blanket in together and turn down the sheet and the blanket top. (To add visual interest you can use a contrasting coloured sheet). At this point, add your desired coverlet – be it a comfy down duvet or a pretty quilt – and spread it over the bed so that there is an equal overhang on both sides of the bed. Leave the folded-down sheet and blanket exposed at the top.

Style the bed by layering the pillows, placing the sleeping pillows upwards against the headboard or wall and layering decorative pillows or pillow shams in front of them. Add a throw at the end of the bed for visual interest and extra warmth when necessary. A mix of different textures also contributes visual interest and a richness of palette – combining warm textures such as velvet and wool with cool textures such as linen and cotton is both luxurious and interesting. Decorate with pattern and colour; create a layered, collected look with a mix of florals, stripes, geometrics and solid colours.