Turn Your Bedroom Into a Sanctuary

Since we spend about a third of our lives sleeping, we should place high importance on the look and feel of the master bedroom. Follow these tips to transform one of the most important rooms of your home into a relaxing sanctuary.

What to Bring In

• Neutral Colors — Light, neutral hues like creams, taupes, grays, and blues provide a tranquil atmosphere. Use soft, coordinating colors for your bedding and walls.

• Soft Lighting — Overhead lighting can sometimes be harsh or too concentrated. Create a soothing mood with soft, balanced lighting throughout the room. Add lamps 1o brighten dark corners and illuminate each side of the bed.

• Window Treatments — A sense of privacy is essential to any sanctuary. Window treatments offer coverage from the outside world and can be a beautiful design element If outside lighting disrupts your sleep, consider blackout curtains.

What to Take Out

• Outdated Bedding — A relaxing bedroom begins with a comfortable bed. Most experts recommend replacing your mattress every eight years. Pillows should be replaced every two to three years or every six months if you have asthma or allergies.

• Excess Furniture — Get back to basics by paring down your bedroom to just the essentials. Most people require little more than a bed frame, a couple of matching nightstands and a dresser or chest of drawers. Anything more can quickly become clutter.

• Unnecessary Electronics — From more sleep to better family relationships, there are numerous benefits of having a technology-free bedroom. Reserve your master bedroom for rest and relaxation, and keep electronics out.

Makeover your master bedroom into a serene space you look forward to at the end of a long day. These tips can help you get started.