Who doesn't love a good before and after? So satisfying, so inspiring, and the more dramatic the better. And this bedroom remodeled by designer Amber Lewis is a drastic change – it looks like a totally different house from the pretty bland gray space it once was.
Sharing a peek at the before and after of the bedroom on Instagram, Amber Lewis has totally transformed a once characterless space, a 2000s-style gray bedroom, into a modern rustic haven, complete with textured plaster walls, wooden beams and the most beautiful rustic fireplace that look like they have been part of the room for decades. The result is a practically unrecognizable bedroom that feels cozy yet elevated, proving you can always add character to a room that has none.
While the bedroom's initial design was inoffensive, it lacked that crucial sense of personality and warmth that's so important in a space designed for relaxing. Using plaster to add character, Amber chose to swap the gray walls with a chic and subdued pale plaster that gives the space some interest without overwhelming, the perfect backdrop for the wooden accents and rustic decor.
At first glance, the bedroom's infrastructure appears to have been massively altered, but in reality, Amber has been clever with the architecture, enhancing it rather than changing it entirely. Take the window seat idea as an example; this space held a built-in dresser, but Amber discarded the outdated storage trend and made space for a charming wicker window seat, giving the bedroom a further sense of thoughtfulness and curation. Amber also ripped out the dated closets and bulky storage units, and of course, the old-fashioned carpet, which has opened up the room and made the fireplace more of a feature as it's not flanked by storage.
Despite decorating with neutrals, the space feels embracing and inviting due to Amber's layering of warm tones. Tell-tale signs of coziness, the rustic beams frame the space and pair beautifully with the wood furniture and smaller accents. The bedroom is a lesson in warm minimalism, proving that a neutral, carefully curated space can still feel interesting, filled with texture and depth.
Omitting the bench that once sat at the end of the bed, Amber created a small seating area. She's made the most of the dead space and opened up the area, opting for elegant, non-bulky armchairs and a low table that ties in with the rest of the rustic wood decor and doesn't break up the space too much visually. The clever placement of the rug grounds the bed and the seating area, framing it within the room and adding clear walkways around the furniture, creating the illusion of more space.
Then there is the impressive fireplace idea that Amber has entirely modified with rustic brick kit-kat tiles and a new, more seamless surround that blends into the plaster walls and gives it a Mediterranean edge.
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Amber has scattered a pair of striped cushions on the bed, providing a nautical edge without going overboard. Balanced with warmer-toned bedding, the Ferdinand pillows are an easy way to make your bedroom feel classically elegant.
You'll notice plenty of rustic wood accents in the bedroom, such as this organic-shaped bowl similar to the pieces Amber has incorporated. Fill with trinkets on your side table and this small but impactful piece will give your bedroom a relaxed, earthy vibe.
With its rustic textured base and elegant shade, the Calabria Rustico lamp is an easy choice for a nightstand. It's the perfect neutral yet impactful accessory that will transform an empty area into a cozy and sophisticated nook.
Amber's bedroom design features layers of warm-toned bedding, much like this woven brown throw blanket. Fringed and made from organic materials, it's the perfect way to bring warmth and texture into your scheme.
You'll notice plenty of rustic accessories scattered throughout the space, like this textured vessel that's perfect for holding a bouquet of vibrant flowers or luscious foliage.
With its wicker base and back and its curved arms, the Pablo armchair is an easy choice if you're looking to combine sophistication with relaxation. It's a contemporary yet classic piece that would look best with organic textures and earthy colors.
Amber's bedroom design features all the classic components of the modern rustic style checklist and more. Combining characterful features with a neutral color palette and plenty of earthy textures, she transformed a dated bedroom lacking personality into a room filled with warmth and charm.
