A Smart Guide to Bedroom Ergonomics
Find out how to design an ergonomic bedroom that is well-planned, comfortable and ensures a good night's sleep
Ergonomics is the art of arranging the furniture layout, designing the lighting scheme and using furniture to make a space highly functional and comfortable to use. An ergonomic bedroom can be achieved by designing an efficient one that fulfils the requirements of the user, prevents unnecessary body movements, has a clutter-free layout and is restful. Here are the essential elements of an ergonomic bedroom design.
1. Layout of the bedroom
- Ideally the bed should be positioned in the centre of the bedroom so as to provide visual symmetry. There should be adequate circulation space with a clearance of at least 30 inches on both the sides and in front of the bed.
- Install side tables on both sides of the bed for keeping daily utility items within easy access of the bed.
- If you plan to have a TV in the bedroom, then the wall opposite the bed is best suited for installing the TV, where it can be viewed directly from the bed. However, a bedroom without a TV will probably help you have a better sleep cycle as you are less likely to stay up late.
- Create a neat and well-organised layout by arranging other pieces of furniture such as wardrobes, the dressing table and seating with reference to the position of the bed. Make sure that there is enough space for the door to open easily and for moving about within the bedroom.
- If the bedroom requires a study table or a home office, then the best way is to combine the wardrobe and study area into a single unit, like in this image, as it gives a more organised look. There should be a clearance of at least 5 feet in front of the study table so that a person can sit and work, and still leave enough circulation space for another person to cross from behind.
2. Correct position of TV
- Go for a wall-mounted TV unit, built-in TV unit or multipurpose TV unit where the TV is positioned at eye level. The TV should be 30–34 inches from floor level to ensure good posture while viewing the TV from the bed or a seat.
- The most popular TV size for medium-sized bedrooms is in the range of 32–42 inches (diagonal measurement of the screen). Use this guide to select the correct TV size and determine its exact height of installation.
- All the TV wires should be out of view so that the bedroom has a neat and clutter-free look.
3. Layered lighting
Create a layered lighting scheme with a combination of natural and artificial lights. The different types of lighting which can be utilised for the bedroom include
Create a layered lighting scheme with a combination of natural and artificial lights. The different types of lighting which can be utilised for the bedroom include
- Ambient lighting, which provides overall illumination in the bedroom. A uniform lighting scheme can be achieved with ceiling mounted or recessed light fixtures, bracket lights, floor lamps, recessed cove lighting and pendant lights. Dimmers can be used to control the intensity of lights.
- Natural light, which is the ideal source during the day. The windows should be easily accessible so that they can be opened every morning to let in maximum natural light during the day.
- Task lights, which include direct, focused illumination which is perfect for a specified activity. In this bedroom, task lighting is in the form of angled lamps on the bedside tables to provide ample light for reading.
- Accent lighting, which is a great way to draw attention to an interesting feature, such as a piece of art or an architectural detail, and convert them into focal points.
4. Height of furniture
- The average height of the bed (at the top of the mattress) should be 16–25 inches, depending on the comfort level of the user.
- The height of the bedside table should be the same as the top of the mattress. These tables can also be an inch or two lower so that one can easily reach out for things when in bed.
- The height of the dressing table should be 32–36 inches.
- A study table should be 26–30 inches high to ensure a comfortable position when seated.
5. A comfortable headboard
- An upholstered headboard is ergonomic as it not only improves the aesthetics of the bedroom but its comfort, as it provides cushioned support to the back when sitting up in bed.
- Alternatively, one can go for a curved wooden headboard that can provide good back support. However, wooden headboards, being hard, are not as comfortable as upholstered ones.
6. A good mattress and pillows
The main function of a pillow and mattress is to provide comfortable support to the body and ensure a good night’s sleep.
The main function of a pillow and mattress is to provide comfortable support to the body and ensure a good night’s sleep.
- Factors such as the support system of the mattress, the infill material used and the comfort level of the mattress should be taken into consideration when selecting a mattress. The different types of mattress include innerspring, pocket coil, memory foam, latex foam, hybrid, and rubberised coir mattresses. Take your pick.
- The infill material in the pillow determines the durability and comfort level of the pillows. The different types of pillow include feather and down, organic cotton, memory foam, latex foam, and synthetic fill pillows.
7. Clever built-in storage
Built-in storage gives a clean and uncluttered look to the bedroom.
Built-in storage gives a clean and uncluttered look to the bedroom.
- Introduce a storage bed to increase the functionality of a compact bedroom. Make optimum use of the space below the bed for storing seasonal clothing, extra towels and bedding.
- Introduce a window seat and use the space on the sides of a window to accommodate closed or open storage, as in this image. The space under the seat can be used for additional storage.
- In this example, the storage unit includes both drawers and open shelves. The floating TV unit offers an element of lightness and can be used for keeping the remotes, CDs and other TV accessories out of view.
8. A well-organised wardrobe
- The clear depth of the wardrobe should be at least 24 inches.
- The position of the shelves and hangers should be such that one does not have to stretch or bend too much to reach out for frequently-used items.
- For hanging saris or formal shirts the vertical clearance of the shelf should be 40 inches, while the vertical clearance for hanging long clothes like gowns or dresses should be 66–72 inches.
- The clearance for open shelves should be 12–15 inches.
- Having different-sized drawers to store different types of items makes the best use of available space.
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The Ultimate Guide to Bathroom Ergonomics
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