My Recipe for the Perfect Bed
Because health is wealth- and the foundation of health is sleep (DUH).
How to Build the Perfect Bed: My Recipe for a Restful Sleep
Sleep has become the obsession du jour, especially with all the New Year’s resolutions floating around. And let me tell you, I am obsessed with sleep. Apparently, there’s even a term for people who romanticize sleep (or maybe I just made that up)—but if there isn’t, someone needs to coin it stat.
When it comes to sleep, the foundation of my obsession is creating the perfect bed. Bedding isn’t just about comfort; it’s about crafting a little slice of heaven to climb into every night. This isn’t just personal preference—it’s a non-negotiable in every project I design. While duvet and sham selections happen early in the design process (because they’re essential to the room’s vibe), the nitty-gritty—sheets, pillows, and blankets—are always the final cherry on top, ordered right before install.
So, without further ado, here’s my tried-and-true recipe for the perfect bed:
Step 1: Toss the Old Pillows
As I mentioned in my previous Substack, What to Immediately Toss in 2025, the absolute best pillows are the Beckham Hotel Collection pillows on Amazon (yes, Amazon!). There are various price points from the least expensive, to the mid-level to the premier so the choice is up to you but they are all fantastic options. When I started dating my boyfriend, I threw out his pillows immediately. Too soon? Maybe. Necessary? Definitely.
Even the most stylish, put-together homes can fall victim to tired, lifeless pillows. And according to the Sleep Foundation, you should replace your pillows every 1-2 years. Think of it as the easiest resolution you’ll ever make: better sleep and better hygiene. Trust me, you don’t want to know what accumulates in those things (ick). Start fresh—your neck and your sinuses will thank you.
Step 2: Invest in a Great Mattress
I’ve tried a few mattresses over the years. For my DUMBO apartment, I opted for a mid-range option, but for my Vero Beach home? I went all in with the Mac Daddy of mattresses: a top-of-the-line Casper.
Let me tell you, it’s a game-changer. Between the ocean views and this mattress, I never want to leave my bed. (True story: a guest once slept until 2 p.m. and I had to do a welfare check.) A mattress is the trophy piece of your bed—invest accordingly. Remember, health is wealth, and good sleep is priceless.
Step 3: Don’t Skip the Mattress Protector
This step might seem basic, but you’d be shocked how many people overlook it. A mattress protector is your first line of defense against the…let’s call it life that happens in bed. Wash it monthly (twice if you’re sick) and always before hosting guests. Think of it as hotel housekeeping 101—cleanliness is key.
Step 4: The Secret to Affordable Sheets
While I splurge on duvets and shams from luxury brands like Schweitzer and Matouk, my go-to for sheets is shockingly simple: white percale sheets from California Design Den on Amazon. They’re durable, bleach-friendly, and endlessly replaceable. Plus, they’re perfect for clients who want quality without the guilt of ruining something precious. Pro tip: donate old, tired sheets to animal shelters—they’ll be so grateful.
Step 5: Add a Waffle Weave Blanket
If you haven’t discovered the magic of a waffle weave blanket, allow me to introduce you to your next obsession. The PHF lightweight waffle weave blanket (again, Amazon!) is a game-changer. I gifted these to my entire family, and now no one will shut up about how great they are. They’re breathable, luxurious, and perfect for warmer climates like Florida
Step 6: The Duvet Debate
This is where opinions get heated: duvet or coverlet? Personally, I love a layered look—coverlet or matelassé or quilt on top, with the duvet folded at the end of the bed. My mom swore by Ballard Designs’ signature matelassé when I was growing up, and I’ve carried that tradition forward. It’s practical, chic, and extends the life of your duvet; other amazing options are available at The Company Store (and they won’t break the bank so more money to spend on a stunning duvet!).
Of course, some (cough, my boyfriend, cough) think it’s unnecessary and skip straight to the duvet. Either way, choose what works for you, but remember: layers add luxury.
Step 7: Splurge on the Crown Jewel
The pièce de résistance of any bed is the duvet and shams. I always invest here—Schweitzer and Matouk are my go-tos. My Vero Beach home features the most stunning Schumacher x Matouk boudoir pillow (a gift from my boyfriend’s mom) that ties the whole look together. If I could, I’d live in a world of Leontine and D. Porthault linens, but for now, I’ll keep manifesting!
And there you have it—my foolproof recipe for the perfect bed. From a solid mattress to layers of breathable luxury, these tips will not only transform your sleep but also give you a bed worth admiring every day. Now, go forth, invest in your rest, and maybe even treat yourself to an Oura ring—it’s been a total game-changer for tracking my sleep!
xx,
Hollis