Already have contrast of brown and white walls, and lively bedding quite saturated. The art is more earthy. No more color would be better / I vote 'less'. -- Deb

Have you tried solid bedding?

the wall at the back is actually gray, and the bedding is a gift from hubby who knew I loved polka dots, and he loves the primary colors, the artwork is his and painted for me. I wouldn't have voted for the bedding, instead preferring a more serene setting but we're trying to compromise. it's definitely challenging.

How interested are you in using those little windows for light/view/architectural detail?

Thanks Tara -- solid shams then?

Have you considered Roman shades? Maybe a neutral colored fabric with a trim that gives it some pop. Mount above the window.

I'm with Deb on this. Less color. Solid pillow shams and simple shades will help balance everything. It's very energetic right now and I think that will help you feel more serene like you want.

Roman shades would be nice for the little windows. Curtains on the other. You have enough "pop" already, Look what your husband made me this of:)

I like the idea of Roman Shades, probably in a neutral gray. there are actually a few gray polka dots. big solid shams I think would help balance, too, thank you for that idea. the lamps are smaller because we wanted them shorter than the windows. do you think they'd be better bigger and wider or actually taller than windows?

and for Valerie, we don't really need the view out the smaller windows, but we both really like the light. picture to the right is also going, so we'll only have the one on the left.

I would pick one of the colors and do everything else in that color. Shams, drapes (personally, the whole wall behind the bed), any accessories etc. Otherwise, it will be a riot of color and definitely not serene. Any color can be serene in the right application.

If it can be returned, you might want to ask him if he likes it. He may just be putting up with it for your sake. Maybe approach it that what he did was so sweet, but since he doesn't really like it you were thinking to get something that both of you could enjoy as a 'grown up' room. Because the bedding definitely screams pre-teen girl;).

I don't think the bedding suits anything in this room but your love of polka dots. The circles are in conflict with the bed upholstery which makes squares. Your windows, art and bed say contemporary and modern, while the bedding says 1950's grade school girl's bedroom. Sometimes good intentions just go awry. I generally don't trust husbands with decor decisions.

lol! actually HE loves the bedding- WAY more than I. I'm trying to find ways I can live with it. we also have 2 little forks who are 5 and six, we are a very playful and vibrant family so he tends to live more feminine looks while I like more contemporary modern sleek stuff. mixing the two with colors and dots is, uh, interesting. thank you for all the suggestions, they are great!

Do you need the privacy? If not, how about just trimming out the windows. If so, simple shades is all you need. Just a suggestion for the bedding...I would get three euro pillows/shams in the aqua or light blue color, the color appears to be in both paintings. Maybe even a throw at the end of the bed.

Would you and he feel good about finding a sleek (without more squares or pattern!) down comforter -- white or even a solid turquoise (to match the dots/artwork/etc.) with the polka-dot comforter folded maybe 30" across the foot of the bed -- and, yes, with the polka-dot shams (pillowcases?) at the top. Maybe the Roman shades could be either white or the turquoise, solid color.

The room is contemporary and modern so keep the window coverings the same. A neutral color for the fabric and perhaps adding a simple trim will add some balance with the boldness of the polka dots. I would do a roman shade on the other window as well, drapes do not compliment the contemporary playful look of the room. I would consider a different color paint on your accent wall though. The dark gray wall is a bit dark for the playfulness of the polka dots. If you want a dark paint color, try a navy blue, it will work with everything. Or brighten it all up with yellow. Do a white roman shade and a colorful trim to compliment the polka dots on the bottom or sides. Have fun with it! It's your room and you gotta love it :-)

I've been thinking a lot about your dilemma because...I love your bedroom! Although not serene, I think the colors in the bedspread and art are beautiful. it's SO sweet that you are allowing your husband to express himself in the design also, you are telling him his opinion matters. A couple of ideas: one is, since your room is small, what about installing hanging bedside lamps? It could add a modern touch and would add interest on the wall with your little Windows. Also, I have a favorite house tour Im attaching a link to. This couple has a house with bright colors and polka dots and they pull it off fabulously! Maybe by reading the article and looking at the pictures you could apply some of their design principles to your own space.

Enjoy your playful room, it will always feel serene in the dark ;)

Article:
http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/roger-chris-bold-eclectic-vivacious-160-year-old-victorian-house-tour-217168

Adding that idea to lessen darkness of accent wall seems to make sense. It'd seem nice with other bedding though, but have fun it's your space! - Deb