How to Create the Perfectly Styled Bed with Catherine Heraghty of @the_stables_

SEP 08|5 min read

Since we spend almost half our life in bed, it makes sense to invest some time into creating a bedroom that looks as dreamy as it is comfortable.

While there isn’t just one ‘formula’ for building the perfect bed, Catherine Heraghty, owner and creative director of boutique interior styling company The Stables, says there are certainly some simple tricks you can follow for a luxurious, beautifully styled bed.

Here, Catherine shares her expert tips to help you transform your sleep space, from how to layer your bed linen like a pro to choosing the perfect colour palette.

Angled view of a bed with neutral and white bedlinen, with matching pillows and styled with Belgian Vintage Cushions in linen and pink.

Layers are key

I love to introduce as many layers as I can – sheets, a quilt cover as the basis of the look, a coverlet for extra interest, and a throw on top to add organic form! Depending on the season, the more layers the better.

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Woman holding the edge of a white bedlinen as she makes a bed.

Introduce texture

Try introducing varying textures such as a fluffy feather quilt insert with a high lift, a subtle linen quilt cover, a textured coverlet, and a soft linen throw to contrast with the structure of the coverlet. Then when it comes to pillows and decorative cushions, opt for two feather European cushions in different designs or fabrics and three or so decorative cushions with varying texture. Ensure the decorative cushions have feather inserts to add another layer of softness.

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Close-up of bedlinen styled with neutral bedlinen and accessories in pink, white and neutral linen.

Upsize your bedding and bedlinen

If you have a queen-size bed, always upsize to a king-size quilt! I generally fold the quilt in halves or thirds to showcase the sheets or layers underneath and then let it drape to the floor. This way, the quilt will feel extra luxurious and generous.

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Close-up of two European pillows – one in white and one in a neutral linen colour with white textured detailing.

Vary heights and sizes

I love a bed with a lot of cushions! My general go-to is two European pillows, four standard pillows, and three or so decorative cushions in different sizes and heights to keep things interesting.

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Catherine Heraghty sits at a table with her computer and colour swatches of stone and fabrics.

Consider your colour palette

When selecting your bed linen, cushions and throw take your cue from the artwork, flooring, window treatments and accessories within the space you are styling. This will drive your colour palette ensuring that each selection sits in context with the room.

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Find more from The Stables:
Instagram: @the_stables_
Website: The Stables

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