Tranquil Nap-Time Spots to Daydream About
Blissful and serene, these envy-inducing settings will put you to sleep, but for all the right reasons...
Did you know that 29 September marks the start of Sleep Awareness Week around Australia? If not, there’s no need to lose any sleep over it; in fact, doing so would be at odds with the whole purpose of the campaign, which is to raise awareness about the importance of catching enough zzz’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 you feel tired, groggy, restless and even grumpy the next day. However, taking a nap is an easy way to catch up on sleep and helps to offset the effects of not logging enough hours between the sheets – studies have shown that snoozing for just 15 to 30 minutes can instantly perk you up, improve your mood, increase your focus and boost creativity. Experts say the best time to take a daytime doze is between 1pm and 4pm in the afternoon so your nap doesn’t interfere with your sleep later that night.
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 to doze, take a look at these dream-worthy nap-time spaces that are sure to transport you to a happy place and see you drift off with a smile on your face.
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 you feel tired, groggy, restless and even grumpy the next day. However, taking a nap is an easy way to catch up on sleep and helps to offset the effects of not logging enough hours between the sheets – studies have shown that snoozing for just 15 to 30 minutes can instantly perk you up, improve your mood, increase your focus and boost creativity. Experts say the best time to take a daytime doze is between 1pm and 4pm in the afternoon so your nap doesn’t interfere with your sleep later that night.
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 to doze, take a look at these dream-worthy nap-time spaces that are sure to transport you to a happy place and 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 day bed where you can lay back and rest for a while, this idyllic Palm Beach, NSW, cabana really does offer the perfect place to indulge in an afternoon doze. Salty sea air and warm sunshine also have a calming, restorative effect, which ensures anyone who naps in this peaceful outdoor oasis feels fresh and rejuvenated long after they’ve stirred from their slumber.
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 cosy, inviting corner boasts all the essential ingredients to ensure a refreshing nap: a comfy seat-turned-impromptu-mattress, plush pillows, a soft, 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 cosy, this living area offers the promise of rest and relaxation. The subdued colour palette is key to the room’s soothing, snooze-worthy vibe, as are the sheer curtains that wrap around the space – when pulled across the room they help to create a peaceful hideaway that’s closed off from the surrounding 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 before returning to the real world.
Sweet dreams. Sometimes the best place to nap is in your bedroom, as it’s designed to be a calming, restful sanctuary that offers privacy and a space free of noisy distractions (like the hum of appliances, chatter of kids or the sound of your TV blaring) that are found in other areas of the home. Dressed in a harmonious palette of powder blue and cream, and decked out with elegant furnishings, this tranquil bedroom is a nap-time lover’s dream come true. Soft bedding that offers tactile pleasure and a cluster of plush pillows complete the peaceful, snooze-worthy look.
Secret garden. If you love the great outdoors, why not take your nap outside? This leafy Zen hideaway sets the scene for a refreshing doze, with the sounds of nature providing a soothing soundtrack that has the power to lull anyone to sleep. The gently curved hardwood wall lends 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 a while.
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Cosy comfort. Who would’ve thought a concrete-heavy scheme would look so peaceful, cosy and inviting? Here, an oversize, lavishly cushioned L-shaped sofa in a chalky hue softens the look of the cool, 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 laying 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 laying 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 (and sweet) slumber. The long, cushioned bench seat offers both form and function; its striking floral pattern adds a touch of visual interest to the space, while it’s generous size provides ample room for a sleepy reader to stretch out and get comfy.
Nap-time nook. This sweet set-up is sure to make any youngster look forward to their afternoon nap, rather than having a tantrum because they don’t want to settle down for a snooze. A fluffy sheepskin rug and cluster of plush cushions provide cosy comfort, while a teepee topped with fairy lights adds a magical ambience and touch of whimsy to the space.
Scenic snooze. Who wouldn’t want to fall asleep and awaken from a nap to a pleasing and peaceful vista like this? But even if the soothing view proves too distracting and the sunlight too bright, the inviting scene indoors is still a welcome sight even when the curtains are closed, thanks to its calm, earthy palette and modern rustic decor.
More: Bedrooms With a View: Wonderlands to Wake Up to
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Chill-out zone. Dark, cosy and a little bit mysterious, this attic hideaway is an ideal spot for kids to play and then take a nap once they’ve tired themselves out. Two double mattresses nestled under the arch window provide ample space for two or three youngsters to bunk down, or even adults who are looking for a quiet sanctuary where they can snooze away from common areas in the home that are often busy and noisy.
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, plush cushion for extra comfort and a gorgeous leafy backdrop, this inviting indoor-outdoor setting is our idea of heaven.
Warm retreat. This wonderfully warm and comfy living area may be compact, but there’s still plenty of space for multiple members of the family to stretch out for a nap. A U-shaped in-built lounge lines three walls of the room and provides ample room for three people (perhaps even more) to claim a spot to sink into. The custom-made seating is also key to the room’s cosy and intimate feel, which is enhanced by the use of natural materials (in particular the timber 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, laying down on the comfy bed and drifting off for a quick nap while listening to some soothing, 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.
Outdoor affair. Don’t have a designated spot outside where you can lay down for a snooze? Don’t let that stop you from dozing outdoors! Just grab a picnic blanket, a pillow and find a peaceful spot like this one in your backyard where you can get settled, and off to dreamland you go!
Tucked away. Ever get tired while doing some work at your desk? Then it sounds like you need to set up a cosy corner in your home office where you can catch some zzz’s once you’ve hit a wall. Though, if I had a charming and tranquil nook like this one in my workspace, chances are I wouldn’t spend much time tapping away on my laptop – I’d curl up and read my favourite 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 being in plain view, while the cluster of cushions softens the angular look of the space.
TELL US
Where’s your favourite spot to nap in your home? We’d love to know, so please share your thoughts in the comments section.
MORE
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TELL US
Where’s your favourite spot to nap in your home? We’d love to know, so please share your thoughts in the comments section.
MORE
10 Easy Ways to Get a Better Night’s Sleep
Feel-Good Home: 10 Steps to a Feng Shui Bedroom
Bedroom Colour Combos That Soothe Your Soul