This Is How the Founder of a Sleepwear Brand Decorates a Bedroom

Your bedroom should be your sanctuary. It's a place to recharge after busy days and a space to relax and luxuriate in a good night's sleep any time you get the chance. While it might not seem like it, how you decorate your bedroom can actually affect how well-rested and calm you feel. That's why it's important to create a space that fits your needs and your design sensibilities in order to get your best night's sleep.

No one understands this better than Ashley Merrill, Founder, and CEO of the luxury sleepwear brand Lunya. When it comes to sleep, Merrill is a pro—and as if her job weren't proof enough that she's an expert at creating a comfortable environment to sleep in, she's also got the digs to prove it—her Malibu beach house, including her modern bedroom, was recently featured in lifestyle and home décor magazine Lonny (and it is absolutely stunning).

Needless to say, we'd take her advice on how to decorate a bedroom any day. Ahead, take note of Merrill's tried and true decorating tips and see inside her own gorgeous bedroom.

Reflect on Your Personal Style and Needs

If you're decorating a bedroom from scratch, the first place to start is with a bit of self-reflection. "I think a home should be a reflection of the people in it so the place I always start is with the individual," explains Merrill. She suggests taking some time to think about what you want the room to feel like and what you'll need from the space in terms of function.

Then, it's time to head to Pinterest and Instagram for a bit of inspiration. "I usually start with an inspo picture and then try to dissect what it is I like about the space," the founder continues. Once she's inspired, she shops for special, one-of-a-kind pieces from vintage outposts like Chairish and 1stdibs and lets the design fall into place from there. "My bedroom all hinges from a sculptural light fixture, the need for a bed that could accommodate a TV under it, and my desire for a serene neutral space," she says.

Start with the Essentials

Depending on your personal needs and the space you have to work with, you may need a variety of furnishings; however, the best place to start is by sourcing those essential pieces that you know the room will require, like a mattress, bed frame, and side tables.

When it comes to finding the right mattress, Merrill is a pro. "I have owned probably every mattress on the market right now," she admits. Of all the mattresses she's tried, she recommends Nest for a softer spring option and Casper for a blend between a spring mattress and a Tempurpedic style one.

As for the bedframe, Merrill is more of a minimalist. "A bed is such a functional piece that I find it difficult to make the bed a big statement," Merrill explains. Instead, she goes for more simplistic options from some of her favorite retailers, including Interior Define and Floyd Home. She's also a fan of vintage nightstands and lamps, which she recommends searching for on Pamono, Chairish, and even Etsy.

Make It Cozy

Once you've figured out your vision and purchased essential furnishings, it's time for the fun part: making your bedroom as cozy and comfortable as possible. The first step to an unbelievably good night's sleep is piling on the pillows, according to Merrill. "I sleep with six king-down pillows—one in between my knees, one for my head, and one to hold," the CEO reveals. She's partial to one of Lunya's latest offerings, a washable silk pillowcase that boasts benefits for both your hair and your skin.

In addition to sourcing cozy bedding, Merrill is also a fan of smaller decorative elements in the bedroom. "I love plants," she says, admitting that she does, however, have trouble keeping them alive. Along with plants, Merrill keeps original artwork in the bedroom, specifically pieces from Saatchi's emerging artists. "It's a great way to support artists, have something original, and keep it affordable," she notes. Finally, her bedroom wouldn't be complete without a candle burning on her nightstand for a bit of ambiance.