Mid-century modern design is all about simplicity and warmth, making it a popular choice for rooms designed for rest and relaxation. If we spend one-third of our days sleeping, it is safe to say we want our bedroom to be a peaceful place. If you are looking to upgrade your space to be a modern, mid-century inspired oasis — an escape from the rest of the world — then here are six tips to help you.

Furniture

Mid-century modern design is all about clean lines and quality. Your furniture can still have interesting visual details, but skip the particle board and choose real wood pieces whenever possible. Nightstands with drawers contain clutter and maintain the aesthetics of the room. Teak and walnut are the most authentic wood choices, but any deep, warm wood tone will complement the look.

Satin and frills are out. Fabrics should be simple, sturdy and soft; avoid anything too loud in favor of simplicity. Piping accents are a good way to add details and visual interest without getting too fussy. Feel free to add accent pillows with different colors and patterns.

Clutter Be Gone

The bedroom is not the place for family reunion photos or a treadmill. To maximize harmony, you have to minimize visual disruptions. Get rid of patterned wall-paper in favor of warm, rich, neutral walls. Make your favorite artwork and other treasured pieces center stage by removing clutter. If you have more stuff than space, mini storage facilities are an ideal alternative for seasonal and rarely-used belongings.

Lighting

Lighting can really set the tone of a room, sometimes as much as any other design element. Dimmer switches keep the ambiance of your lighting soft and diffused. For bedside lighting, the best solutions are frosted or opaque glass wall sconces with convenient switches. Table lamps can pose a problem with too much light bleeding out from under a lampshade while you try to read or relax. Instead, use a period chandelier as a great focal piece to tie the room together. If you prefer a ceiling fan, plenty of market options won't clash with your design.

Windows

Speaking of lighting, if you ever want to sleep in, you'll have to control natural light. Choosing window treatments that strike the right balance of privacy, style and light blocking can be challenging. Curtains will look cheap if the proportions are incorrect, and can gape rather inconveniently. For privacy and casual elegance, consider bamboo shades that will fit right in with the rest of your mid-century look. Woven wood shades are made from a variety of natural and man-made fibers, and provide simple, clean lines while controlling light.

Don't Forget the Color

Pops of color are everywhere in mid-century modern design. Choose saturated colors to add flair to the rest of the room. Use pattern as an accent as well. Art deco-patterned fabric contrasts beautifully with the simple elegance of clean wood furniture.

Choosing mid-century modern is not about creating a museum-quality historical reproduction. The ruling principles of simplicity and quality craftsmanship lend themselves perfectly to building a harmonious space for you to relax at the end of a long day.