Curl Up With Some Dreamworthy Nap Spots
Blissful and serene, these envy-inducing settings will put you to sleep, but for all the right reasons
Did you know that September 29 marks the start of Sleep Awareness Week in Australia? (It comes along in March in the U.S.) If not, there’s no need to lose any sleep over it. In fact, doing so would be at odds with the purpose of the campaign, which is to raise awareness about the importance of catching enough z’s every night and to encourage people to adopt healthy sleep habits.
While most adults need between seven and nine hours of shut-eye each night so they feel well rested, rejuvenated and raring to go in the morning, sometimes life gets in the way and cuts into our much-needed daily slumber, which can make us feel tired, groggy, restless and even grumpy.
While most adults need between seven and nine hours of shut-eye each night so they feel well rested, rejuvenated and raring to go in the morning, sometimes life gets in the way and cuts into our much-needed daily slumber, which can make us feel tired, groggy, restless and even grumpy.
Sunny spot. Who doesn’t love curling up in a sunny spot for a quick power nap (which, let’s be honest, usually turns into a longer snooze)? This inviting corner boasts all the essential ingredients to ensure a refreshing nap: a comfy seat-turned-impromptu-mattress, plush pillows, a soft and snuggly throw to drape over your body as you doze and a picturesque, leafy view that offers a soothing sight before you close your eyes.
In the mood. Intimate and cozy, this living area offers the promise of rest and relaxation. The subdued palette is key to the room’s snoozeworthy vibe, as are the sheer curtains that wrap around the space — when pulled across the room, they help to create a hideaway within an open-plan area. And let’s not ignore that deliciously plush lounge that was made for sinking into for a nice, long doze.
Peaceful sanctuary. I think it’s safe to say that there are few people who’d turn up their nose at taking a snooze in this idyllic nap-time spot. Here fresh neutral tones, luxurious textiles and whimsical touches (such as the gold vintage-style birdcage and draped curtains) combine to create an outdoor lounge area where people can escape to when they need to press pause on their day.
Sweet dreams. Sometimes the best place for napping is in the bedroom, as it’s designed to be a calming, restful sanctuary that offers privacy and one that is free of distractions (like the hum of appliances, chatter of kids or the sound of the TV). Dressed in a harmonious palette of powder blue and cream, and decked out with elegant furnishings, this tranquil bedroom is a nap lover’s dream come true. Soft bedding that offers tactile pleasure and a cluster of plush pillows complete the peaceful look.
Secret garden. If you love the great outdoors, why not take your nap outside? This leafy hideaway is an apt scene for a refreshing doze, with the sounds of nature providing a soothing soundtrack that has the power to lull someone to sleep. The gently curved hardwood wall contributes to this garden sanctuary’s tranquil vibe, while a large, inviting floor cushion sits on the deck and beckons people to sink down and rest awhile.
Cozy comfort. Who would’ve thought a concrete-heavy scheme would look so peaceful and inviting? Here an oversize, lavishly cushioned L-shaped sofa in a chalky hue softens the look of the edgy feature wall, creating a serene living space where the whole family can bunk down after lunch for a midday snooze. The low-slung lounge, topped with an array of plush cushions, not only enhances the relaxing, laid-back vibe of the room but offers sink-in comfort, too. I can definitely see myself kicking up my legs and lying down for some shut-eye here; can’t you?
Curl up. I love getting lost in a good book before I turn the lights out at night, and the same goes for when I’m lying down for a quick snooze, which makes this comfy reading nook my dream nap-time space. With a wall of open shelves filled with an abundance of reads, there’s no shortage of books to start flicking through before or after a short slumber.
The long, cushioned bench seat offers both form and function; its striking floral pattern adds style, while its generous size provides ample room for a sleepy reader to get comfy.
The long, cushioned bench seat offers both form and function; its striking floral pattern adds style, while its generous size provides ample room for a sleepy reader to get comfy.
Nap-time nook. This sweet setup is sure to make any youngster look forward to an afternoon nap, rather than having a tantrum about settling down for a snooze. A fluffy sheepskin rug and cluster of plush cushions provide comfort, while a tepee topped with fairy lights adds a magical ambience and touch of whimsy.
Scenic snooze. Who wouldn’t want to fall asleep and awaken to a pleasing and peaceful vista like this? If the view proves too distracting and the sunlight too bright, the inviting scene indoors is still a welcome sight when the curtains are closed, thanks to its calm, earthy palette and modern rustic decor.
Chill-out zone. Dark and a bit mysterious, an attic hideaway like this is an ideal spot for kids to play in, then take a nap once they’ve tired themselves out. Two double mattresses nestled under the arched window provide ample space for two or three youngsters to bunk down in, or even adults who are looking for a quiet sanctuary where they can snooze away.
Backyard bliss. A nap-time spot that straddles the indoors and out is the perfect setting for a snooze, as it allows you to enjoy the calming sounds of gentle bird calls and rustling leaves, but in an area that’s protected from the elements. With a pillowy lounger, a plush cushion for extra comfort and a gorgeous leafy backdrop, this inviting indoor-outdoor setting is my idea of heaven.
Warm retreat. A U-shaped built-in lounge lines three walls of the room and provides ample room for a napper or two (perhaps even more) to claim a spot to sink into. The custom seating is also key to the room’s intimate feel, which is enhanced by the use of natural materials (in particular the wood panels that line the back wall) and placement of furniture, which draws the focus to the middle of the space.
Sensory experience. Isn’t this space simply dreamy? I can imagine escaping to this sanctuary after a busy morning, opening the window for some fresh air, lying down on the comfy bed and drifting off for a quick nap while listening to some sleep-inducing music.
A few sprigs of lavender placed by the bed or drops of lavender oil sprinkled over a pillow would also infuse the space with a pleasing fragrance, and help induce relaxation and sleep.
A few sprigs of lavender placed by the bed or drops of lavender oil sprinkled over a pillow would also infuse the space with a pleasing fragrance, and help induce relaxation and sleep.
Outdoor affair. Don’t have a designated spot outside where you can lie down for a snooze? Don’t let that stop you from dozing outdoors. Just grab a picnic blanket and a pillow and find a peaceful spot where you can get settled, and off to dreamland you go.
Tucked away. Ever get tired when working at home? If you’ve got the room, you might want to set up a corner in your home office where you can catch some z’s once you’ve hit a wall. You’ll awake refreshed and more productive.
If I had a charming and tranquil nook like this one in my workspace, though, chances are I wouldn’t spend much time tapping away on my laptop — I’d curl up and read my favorite books and indulge in a few short naps throughout the day instead.
Notice how the sloping ceiling and recessed platform bed makes the peaceful pocket feel like a private hideaway, despite its being in plain view, while the cluster of cushions softens the angular look of the space.
More: 12 strategies to help you sleep
Where’s your favorite spot in your home for a nap? Please share your thoughts in the Comments section.
If I had a charming and tranquil nook like this one in my workspace, though, chances are I wouldn’t spend much time tapping away on my laptop — I’d curl up and read my favorite books and indulge in a few short naps throughout the day instead.
Notice how the sloping ceiling and recessed platform bed makes the peaceful pocket feel like a private hideaway, despite its being in plain view, while the cluster of cushions softens the angular look of the space.
More: 12 strategies to help you sleep
Where’s your favorite spot in your home for a nap? Please share your thoughts in the Comments section.
Has all this talk about the benefits of napping made the thought of taking a snooze sound oh so good right now? Before you find a peaceful place for dozing, take a look at these dreamworthy nap spaces that would be sure to see you drift off with a smile on your face.
Hello, paradise. With the hypnotic sound of rolling waves in the distance, water lapping at your feet and a comfy daybed where you can lay back and rest for a while, this idyllic Sydney cabana really is the perfect place in which to indulge in an afternoon doze. Sea air and sunshine also have a calming, restorative effect, which ensures that anyone who naps in this peaceful outdoor oasis will feel fresh and rejuvenated long after they’ve stirred from their slumber.