Sleeping Spaces from Around the World: What We Can Learn from Other Cultures
Your sleeping space is more than just a place to rest—it's a sanctuary, a retreat from the demands of everyday life. Around the world, cultures have mastered the art of creating restful and inspiring environments that reflect their unique values, traditions, and lifestyles.
In this first post of an ongoing series, we’ll explore cozy and inspiring sleeping retreats inspired by Scandinavian design, as well as styles from Japan and Morocco. Future installments will uncover even more fascinating approaches to rest and relaxation across the globe.
Why these three influences? Each represents a distinct approach to creating spaces of rest and comfort:
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Scandinavian Design: Known for its minimalist ethos, Scandinavian design, particularly from countries like Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, prioritizes simplicity, natural light, and soft textures. Denmark is particularly renowned for the concept of hygge (coziness), which has influenced how people around the world approach creating warm and inviting spaces. While these principles are most strongly associated with Denmark, they reflect a broader Scandinavian approach to comfort and functionality, making this design style globally popular, relatable, and aspirational for many.
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Japan: Japanese interiors focus on Zen principles like simplicity, mindfulness and tranquility, often using natural materials like wood and bamboo. This peaceful, functional approach offers a unique contrast to Western norms.
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Morocco: Moroccan design is bold, vibrant, and luxurious, with rich textures and intricate patterns. Highlighting this design style brings an element of opulence and showcases a cultural design style that’s visually stunning and globally admired.
This mix creates a balance of minimalism (Scandinavian), mindfulness (Japanese), and vibrancy (Moroccan), offering something for every design preference. Stay tuned for more inspiring sleeping retreats in upcoming posts.
1. Scandinavian Minimalism: Simplicity Meets Comfort
The Scandinavian design ethos revolves around hygge, a Danish concept of coziness and contentment. Sleeping spaces in Scandinavian countries often feature:
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Neutral Color Palettes: Whites, grays, and soft pastels create a calming atmosphere.
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Soft Textures: Layered blankets, fluffy duvets, and sheepskin rugs add warmth and comfort.
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Natural Light: Maximizing sunlight with sheer curtains or strategically placed mirrors enhances the sense of openness.
Incorporate the Look:
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Declutter your space to achieve a minimalist vibe.
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Choose light-colored bedding and incorporate natural materials like wooden furniture.
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Add a cozy touch with a knitted throw or soft rug.
2. Japanese Zen-Inspired Tatami Rooms: Serenity in Simplicity
Japanese interiors prioritize functionality and a deep connection with nature, emphasizing mindfulness and tranquility. Key features include:
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Tatami Mats: Traditional straw mats used for flooring, offering a natural, grounding feel.
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Futons: Foldable mattresses that can be stored during the day, creating a multi-purpose space.
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Natural Elements: Bamboo, rice paper screens, and sliding doors maintain a seamless connection to the outdoors.
Incorporate the Look:
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Opt for low-profile furniture to mimic the grounded feel of a tatami room.
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Use neutral tones and natural materials like linen or bamboo.
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Add a small indoor plant or bonsai for a touch of nature.
3. Moroccan Sleeping Spaces: Bold Patterns and Warm Lighting
Moroccan interiors are a feast for the senses, blending rich colors, intricate patterns, and luxurious textures to create a warm and inviting space. Key elements include:
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Vibrant Colors: Deep reds, golds, and blues dominate Moroccan designs.
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Ornate Patterns: Intricate carvings and mosaic tiles add depth and character.
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Ambient Lighting: Lantern-style lights with soft, warm glows create a romantic ambiance.
Incorporate the Look:
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Add patterned throw pillows or a textured duvet cover to your bed.
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Use metallic accents like brass or gold in your decor.
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Incorporate a Moroccan-inspired rug or hanging lantern to complete the look.
Creating Your Global-Inspired Retreat
You don’t need to fully commit to one style to create your perfect sleeping retreat. Instead, take inspiration from these global designs and blend elements that resonate with you:
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Combine Scandinavian minimalism with Moroccan warmth by layering neutral bedding with patterned throws.
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Add Zen-like calm with a low-profile bed and a few natural accents.
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Experiment with lighting by mixing Scandinavian natural light with Moroccan lanterns for evening ambiance.
Your sleeping space should reflect what makes you feel at ease and inspired. By weaving in these global influences, you can create a sanctuary that feels uniquely yours while nodding to the beauty of cultures around the world.
Which of these global styles inspires you the most? Share your ideas or photos of your own sleeping retreat—we’d love to see them!
This is how we live our Worthyest life.