20 master bedroom ideas for a soothing space
By Ellie Reeves | 15th October 2024 | 7 min read
Design the ultimate space for drifting off to dreamland. Discover how to make the most of your master bedroom design with our decorating tips and styling advice. We’ll help you create a calming atmosphere so you can sink into a deep and restful slumber.
1. Choose a neutral palette
Soothing, neutral colours work well in a bedroom as they invite you to slow down, unwind and relax after a long day. Soft shades create the ultimate environment for melting your stress away. Read our bedroom paint guide for more inspiration on choosing colours for your master bedroom.
2. Maximise natural daylight
If you’re lucky enough to have large windows in your bedroom – take advantage of them and let natural light flood your room during the day. Use sheer voiles and light curtains. Natural light makes a room feel brighter, more spacious, and overall, more inviting. It can also make colours appear more vivid, creating a cheerful atmosphere.
3. Invest in quality bedding
A good night’s sleep does a world of wonder for your mood levels and overall health. You typically spend about a third of your life sleeping (or attempting to), so it’s important that your mattress and bedding is comfortable! Invest in quality bedding and mattresses for a comfortable and restful sleep environment.
4. Add a seating area for relaxation
While snuggling up in bed with a good book certainly sounds tempting, it can actually blur the lines between winding down and drifting off. An armchair in your bedroom offers the perfect solution! This dedicated relaxation spot allows you to chill out before slipping into bed. Create a cosy reading corner by placing your armchair besides some shelves filled with books. Nestle yourself in and spend the evening in total bliss.
5. Two tone wonder
If you want to experiment with adding a bold colour to your bedroom décor – why not try the half and half technique? This approach lets you incorporate a bolder colour without overwhelming the space. The bottom half of these walls have been painted in Dulux Acai Berry, whilst the top half has been kept simple with a coating of light grey, Dulux Polished Pebble. The lighter shade also draws your gaze upwards, making the ceiling feel higher and the room feel more spacious.
6. Think about lighting
The bedroom lighting you choose has the power to influence your mood and energy levels. A master bedroom should be a multifunctional space. Layered lighting allows you to create different ambiances depending on the activity. For reading, a focused task light by your armchair is ideal. Getting ready in the morning requires bright light near your dressing table. In the evening, use dimmers and warm hues to promote relaxation and prepare your body for sleep.
7. Upholstered bench at end of your bed
Add visual interest to your large master bedroom by popping an upholstered bench at the end of your bed. Not only does it add a stylish element to your room, but it’s also a comfortable place to sit and put on shoes or take a moment to relax after getting out of the shower. It’s also a handy place to keep your spare blankets, cushions, and pillows.
8. Try a calming blue colour palette
Associated with the sky and ocean, blue is a truly soothing shade. This calming colour comes in a spectrum of tones, from powdery, baby blues to rich navy shades. This allows you to create a variety of moods in your master bedroom. Light blue can create an airy atmosphere, while a deeper navy blue can add a touch of drama. Check out our blue bedroom ideas for more inspiration.
9. Make space for a dressing area
As the master bedroom is typically the largest room in the home, chances are that you have a large cupboard that can be transformed into your very own walk-in wardrobe. If not, you can still carve out a space in the room for getting dressed and preparing yourself for the day ahead. Read our walk-in wardrobe ideas for tips and advice on creating your very own dressing room.
10. A touch of green
Green is the colour most closely associated with nature. Think calming meadows, lush forests and rolling hills. Being close to nature can evoke feelings of tranquility – promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Choose green bedding, teal cushions, and fill your bedroom with an abundance of houseplants. Read our green bedroom ideas for more inspiration.
11. Block out the morning sunlight
Ensure your master room is set up for an optimum night’s sleep. Blackout blinds and curtains are an essential element in any bedroom. They block out sun and moonlight, keeping your room nice and dark – creating a peaceful haven for uninterrupted sleep.
12. Create a romantic retreat with a canopy bed
For ultimate romance, why not choose a canopy bed for your master bedroom? The canopy provides a sense of seclusion, shielding you from the outside world and allowing you to focus on your partner. Drape the canopy in sheer white fabric for a light and airy feel or choose a richer velvet material for a more luxurious ambiance.
13. Take control of the clutter with modular storage
Say goodbye to clutter and hello to a tidy haven. Storage is incredibly important in a bedroom. You want enough space to store all your clothes and accessories so that your room doesn’t feel cluttered. Our Atomia modular storage allows you to design the perfect set up to suit your needs. Whether you need more hanging space or more shelves – you are in complete control of your bedroom storage. Read our bedroom storage ideas and check out our Atomia range for more information.
14. Choose soft blankets and cushions
There's nothing quite like sinking into a bed with plush throws and pillows. The gentle touch of a fleece blanket or a lightweight cotton quilt can instantly melt away stress. Soft throws add a layer of warmth on chilly nights, ensuring a relaxed sleep environment.
15. Welcome in natural materials
Infuse your master bedroom with the calming essence of nature by incorporating organic materials and natural elements. Think bamboo lamp shades, rattan bedside tables, real wood floorboards, and handmade ceramic vases filled with seasonal blooms.
16. Dream en suite
Lucky enough to have an en suite bathroom attached to your master bedroom? Consider it an extension of your tranquil haven! Create a seamless flow from the bedroom right into the bathroom. Maintain the same colour scheme and let the materials you used in the bedroom guide your style choices. If you have a rustic wooden headboard, incorporate similar elements through wooden creates for towels or a stylish bathroom bin.
17. Incorporate a statement headboard
Add drama to your bedroom with a statement headboard. The bed is the focal point of a master bedroom, so it’s important to choose a headboard to complete the look. Headboards aren’t just about aesthetics; they can also be practical. A headboard with built-in shelves creates space for books or bedtime essentials. An upholstered headboard provides comfortable back support while reading in bed.
18. Create space for a desk
While your master bedroom should be a haven for relaxation, sometimes you need a dedicated space for productivity. Whether that be sitting and journalling, answering emails, or putting on your make up ready for date night. Decorate your desk with things that make you happy – such as photos of loved ones, holiday mementos and ornaments.
19. Decorate with beautiful wall art
Wall art is more than just decoration; it's a way to express your personality, cultivate a mood, and create a space that reflects you. Fill your master bedroom with art prints and designs that resonate with you. From delicate illustrations and uplifting quotes to abstract shapes, nature photography and captivating cityscapes.
20. Choose a duvet set that sparks joy
Your bedroom should be a sanctuary of happiness and relaxation, and your duvet cover sets the tone! Choose patterns, colours, and designs that you love. From swirly prints and floral designs to bold geometric shapes. Complement with matching cushions and blankets for a cohesive look in your master bedroom.