Transform your bedroom for a Valentine’s Day romance

Set the scene

Your bedroom should be almost unrecognisable from its day-to-day look, so try to remove any unnecessary items that detract from the atmosphere. Clutter, dirty washing and that box you have been waiting to sort out for months can be moved to another room. Even books on a bedside table – you're not planning to do much reading – can be put out of sight just for the evening. Make sure surfaces are cleared, like dressing tables and bedside tables, as this will give the room a fresh and clean feeling and will also help to make the evening feel different than a normal night. You could even move the furniture around so that the bed is in the focal point of the room. It may not be practical, but it is only for one night!

Once you are happy with your blank canvas you can start to dress the room…

Colours

Just because it is Valentine's Day doesn't mean that you have to choose red, especially if neither you nor your partner likes it. Pick a colour you think would create a relaxed mood. Try gold and cream colours for a luxurious and warm look. Or, if you want a sexy atmosphere, how about bold colours such as purple or black? For a personal touch, maybe use a colour you know your partner would love, like the colours of their sports team or theme your room around their favourite film? They would appreciate the effort you have gone to and it would show how well you know them.

Mood

When you are trying to create a romantic atmosphere it is important to get the mood of the room just right. Lighting is essential to this – a harsh light could ruin the intimacy of the whole night. Think about what lighting you have in the room already and what lights you could substitute from the house to create a softer mood. Use lamps that have neutral shades and cast soft light onto the room. If you have clear fairy lights for the Christmas tree get them out. Trail the lights on the floor around the bed for a romantic touch.

Music is also a great way to create a relaxed and romantic atmosphere, but this doesn't necessarily mean love songs. Why not try a "chillout" compilation album? These are perfect for background music and are easily available. Or, for a personal touch, why not create a compilation of you and your partner's favourite and memorable songs? Even if it is heavy metal or dance, if it reminds them of a happy time with you it will be romantic.

Decorative touches

Obviously, bedding is going to be a pivotal point for the whole decor of the bedroom. Silk or satin fabrics are perfect for a relaxed comfortable feel. Make sure you don't use your everyday bedding as it will just end up looking like your normal bed. Even if you change to plain white bedding, it will look inviting.

Once you know the colour scheme, try to match this with cushions and curtains. If you do not have neutral decor, perhaps see if you could swap your curtains for others you have in the house. It may seem like a lot of effort but the effect will be worth it and your partner will appreciate all the trouble you have gone to. Draping material along the head board or over furniture is also a simple touch to create a soft and sensual atmosphere. You can buy cheap cuts of material from markets and cheap cushion covers that match your colour scheme from homeware stores.

A romantic finish

Candles may seem like a cliche but they are brilliant at creating a soft and relaxed atmosphere. Large white candles can be bought cheaply and will complement any decor you choose. Grouping candles together and placing them around the room is the best way to perfect this look. Why not tie three together with a ribbon matching your colour scheme and place in front of a mirror to reflect the light and give the room more depth? A quirky but effective touch.

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