Home
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Are the Best Tips for Decorating a Master Bedroom?

Lori Kilchermann
Lori Kilchermann

A master bedroom is often a retreat from the world and the decor should reflect the owner's personalty and style. The first step in decorating a master bedroom is determining the desired atmosphere and functionality. The next steps involve deciding on colors, textures and furniture to create that atmosphere. Finishing touches, such as lighting, photographs and artwork, can be used to personalize the space.

Color can be used to set the tone of a master bedroom. Dark, rich colors can create an elegant and formal feel, while sheer and wispy pastels can create a more romantic and casual atmosphere. Color can be brought into a room in large strokes, such as carpets or walls, or in smaller accents, such as pillows, throws and curtains. The colors in a room can be drawn together by covering a headboard in a fabric that matches the color of the master bedroom carpet. While complementary colors are commonly used in interior decorating, using color combinations which are not typically paired together is a way to make a master bedroom stand out from the rest.

Bright windows or a mirror can serve as focal points.
Bright windows or a mirror can serve as focal points.

The bedspread or comforter is typically one of the largest design and color elements in a master bedroom and can be a room's main focal point or simply offer a hint color. The colors in a bedspread can be duplicated in accent pieces throughout the room, such as pillows and throw rugs. For some people, decorating a master bedroom is easier by choosing a bedspread as a starting point, then selecting other room elements that complement the bedspread.

Color can be used to set the tone for a master bedroom.
Color can be used to set the tone for a master bedroom.

Walls are typically a blank canvas when decorating a master bedroom and can be plain, textured or enhanced with a faux finish. Designs, single words or phrases, such as "Always kiss me goodnight," can be stenciled onto the bedroom wall. Other options include painting or wallpapering a single wall to set it off from the rest.

Whether thick and chunky or sleek and modern pieces, the room's furniture style and finish should reflect the desired tone of the room. Bed styles can also add impact to the room, from modern platform beds to more regal four-poster or sleigh beds. Furniture should be placed in the room to make the most of space and light, while at the same time serving a practical purpose.

Platform beds bring a sleek, modern look to a bedroom.
Platform beds bring a sleek, modern look to a bedroom.

For bedrooms which also double as office space, decorators may opt for furniture which can conceal computers and work stations when not in use. This enables the room to still be a place of relaxation and escape because the work elements are out of sight. Lighting is another key decorating feature as well as a necessity for a bedroom. For dramatic impact, smaller accent lights can be used to highlight architectural features or artwork.

Choose the master bedroom's bedspread as a starting point, then select other elements that complement the bedspread.
Choose the master bedroom's bedspread as a starting point, then select other elements that complement the bedspread.

Photographs, artwork and mirrors can be functional as well as decorative in a bedroom. For small spaces, mirrors can provide the illusion of space. Photographs and artwork are a way of personalizing a bedroom and can be used sparingly or in great numbers.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Bright windows or a mirror can serve as focal points.
      By: Iriana Shiyan
      Bright windows or a mirror can serve as focal points.
    • Color can be used to set the tone for a master bedroom.
      By: JZhuk
      Color can be used to set the tone for a master bedroom.
    • Platform beds bring a sleek, modern look to a bedroom.
      By: Alexander Gitlits
      Platform beds bring a sleek, modern look to a bedroom.
    • Choose the master bedroom's bedspread as a starting point, then select other elements that complement the bedspread.
      By: MIGUEL GARCIA SAAVED
      Choose the master bedroom's bedspread as a starting point, then select other elements that complement the bedspread.