Creating a Master Bedroom Retreat

The last two weeks we have talked about the master bathroom, and shared ideas about creating storage in small bathrooms, I also painted my laminate cabinets and organized under the sink.  But now, let’s step into the master bedroom.  Creating a master bedroom retreat is our project this week, and I want to share with you some decorating ideas.

The master bedroom should feel like a hug.  Creating a master bedroom retreat is so rewarding because after a hectic day, you want to go into a space that says “peace”.  My favorite bedding is all white because it has a casual, welcoming feel.  I never try to make my bed perfect, I even like the wrinkles.  I don’t think I have ever said those words before, but I do.  They add to the casual, inviting feel.  And it works because my boys always seem to feel that they are “invited” into our bed.

I purchased this bedding from Ballard Designs and I LOVE the large monogram.  The sheets are not fussy-looking but they feel luxurious.  Monogramming has a bad rap for being stuffy, but when paired with cotton, it’s just an elegant touch.

The “Graceful Order” wasn’t monogrammed into the sheet, that was editing. 😉

On the foot of the bed, I place a throw.  Honestly, we rarely use it but I think it warms up the room.

Our bedside tables are large and thanks to that, we opted for a sitting area instead of a dresser.

I love this lamp and shade, both from Target.  In this picture the lamp was off, but the sunlight was flooding in.

My husbands nightstand has a valet box where I store all the little papers and receipts that he brings home.  Otherwise, the nightstand would be covered with receipts and business cards.

I love having an Oil Diffuser in the bedroom to disperse lavender and eucalyptus.  Bring the spa-feel home!

Right now, the Oil Diffuser is resting on my jewelry cabinet.

There are a few steps in creating a master bedroom retreat.

1. Clear the clutter from the night stands.  They become the “catch-all” in the bedroom and get messy fast.

2.  Clear items from under the bed.  I used to store stuff under the bed and I have to admit, it was just a big dust magnet.  Most of the stuff I had under the bed, I should’ve either thrown away or made space for it in my closet. If you can, clear out this area and it will be so much easier to keep the room clean.  I am glad I did this years ago.

3.  Decide what “look” you are going for and get rid of decorations that don’t match the “look”.  Sometimes you need to shop-your-house and bring in items that you already own and love into your new space.

4.  The biggest investment (besides furniture) and the one that will make the biggest difference, is the bedding.  Splurge on nice sheets.  They last longer and therefore more economical in the long run.  I look for a comforter that is washable since the boys love to jump on our bed.  White comforters are my favorite because I can always add color pillows if I want to add a pop of color.  For now, all white is my favorite.

5.  Have the books that you are currently reading out on your nightstand, but not an entire set of encyclopedia next to your bed (do you still have those by the way?  I do).

6. If you are going to go all out and paint the walls, choose a color that is relaxing.  Skip “Peacock Green” and “Magenta Madness” for this project.

7.  The next thing on my list (which we still don’t have) is purchasing a nice rug for under the bed.  We have wood floors and I would prefer stepping onto a plush rug when I get out of bed.  I know it will be a finishing touch to our bedroom and also add an added layer of comfiness.

Soon we will talk about creating a seating area and how to use ottomans in bedrooms.

Until then, please share with me your favorite color scheme for the master bedroom.  Is your bedroom decorated in warm neutral colors, do you prefer cool tones, or just pops of vibrant color?  I look forward to reading your comments!

Maria