Here is an Ask Minimalist Beauty Q&A from one of my readers.  See more Q&A’s like this here!

Hello Dawn Michelle,

I discovered your blog on minimalist beauty and have already read so many of the articles.  I also tried the DIY toner and love it.  I plan to use the raw honey cleanser starting tonight, and have recommended both to my friends and family.

My husband and I are going to move into a new apt in the city and the bedroom has only one widow which faces a dark alleyway.  Unfortunately the room won’t get much light, and I feel disappointed when I look at inspirational interiors online with natural lighting and large windows.  I’d love to hear your opinion on how we could infuse a sense of light, brightness and warm cosiness into our home.

Much appreciated!

My answer…

Thank you for message!  I am so glad that you are enjoying my blog.  I think it’s awesome that the DIY toner is working out so well for you, and I hope you will love using raw honey as a face wash as much as I do.

I was thinking about the lighting situation for your new place this week, and I just thought of something today.  I do hope that other rooms in your new place get natural light as I know that is really important.  You can create a beautiful room that does not have natural light by choosing the right colors and creating a special energy with natural objects.

For your bedroom, let’s make it a serene haven by first decorating it in light colors, ex: white, ivory, or cream especially for your bed comforter which will be the central focus of your room.  Add a splash of color with throw pillows, a silk artificial flower arrangement, or wall hanging.  Lighter colors automatically add brightness to darker places.

When we don’t have natural light we desire to be outdoors.  You can bring in those elements with items or prints that have inspired nature themes.  Next create ambiance with large soy candles in light colors.  Candles add a cozy feeling to any room, and a soy based candle with an inviting scent can improve how you feel.

Avoid dark colors at all costs to keep the space open and feeling as peaceful as possible.  If you plan to paint your walls, use lighter zen colors with an eco-friendly nontoxic paint.  By keeping your bedroom clear of electronics, book cases, desks, etc. you will truly have that relaxing space that you desire to unwind after a long day.

In a minimalist bedroom, your bed is the focal point of the room and not having too many other furniture pieces will keep things simple and will keep the room uncluttered and open.  In the Feng Shui of bedrooms, it is best not to have the foot of the bed facing the bedroom door, or to have the head of the bed right along a window.  The bed is best placed on a solid wall providing a sense of support and security.  Mirrors facing the bed or behind a bed are also considered unfavorable.

Learn about your Kua number to determine the most auspicious direction for your bed here.  I noticed the benefits of Feng Shui in my first apartment in Los Angeles.  Although I incorporated many of the Feng Shui principles in my home now, I could probably incorporate a few more things.

For nature inspired decor look at Brydie Graphics on Etsy.  I hope that is helpful, and enjoy your new home!  I am so excited for you!

Best Wishes,
Dawn Michelle

(Images by 1. furniturefashion.org, 2. homefurnituretrend.com, 3. en.item.rakuten.com)

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