Dream Big

So what if your master bedroom is more bed than room – make the best of it with the latest tips and trends that defy space ... and your budget!

By Melanie Wanzek
CTW Features

Image courtesy Behr Paint

In today’s difficult economy, some people may find themselves downsizing to a smaller unit or to a house with smaller bedrooms. But with a little

creativity, even a tiny bedroom can tout luxury at low-cost.

According to interior designer Ann Gilbert of Home Impressions, LLC, a residential interior design firm based in Michigan, one of the biggest challenges homeowners face is creating an elegant, comfortable and relaxing environment while maintaining storage and function. This is in addition to the continual fight to keep things simple.

“It is critical for a small space to contain [only] essentials,” agrees interior designer Christine Brun, owner of Christine Brun & Associates in San Diego and author of “Small Space Living” (Schiffer Publishing, Ltd., 2009).

Begin making the most of your bedroom by taking an honest assessment of your clutter. Clearing out stacks of magazines, mail, un-ironed clothes and other unnecessary items is the most inexpensive way to make a room feel spacious. Store your linens and seasonal clothing in other rooms to cut down on the amount of storage space needed.

“You absolutely must be disciplined about your clutter,” Brun says. “No excuses, no free passes – otherwise you will live in a bedroom that is not peaceful and not calming.”

Bed zone: A lavender-aromatherapy mattress (below) maximizes comfort and mental relaxation, while wall hangings and clutter-free nightstands add sophistication. Image courtesy Magniflex

Next, focus on the object most eyes are first drawn to – the bed. Though a sleigh bed or four-poster frame might look beautiful in the store, you should choose a bed that’s just big enough for the space. In most bedrooms, placing the bed adjacent to the doorway can give the room an open, airy atmosphere, along with light linen colors for a spirited feel. Brun suggests hanging something lightweight over the bed, like a silk wreath of flowers or a funky piece of art for sophistication and style. She recommends looking through a local re-sale shop for inexpensive artwork that still makes a statement.

When it comes to mattresses, it’s a whole new ballgame. Consider Magniflex’s lavender-aromatherapy or soy-based bamboo mattresses, the rack-and-pinion technology behind Ergomotion’s latest adjustable bed, Perfect Fit’s Ironman bedding line, Tempur-Pedic’s Cloud collection or Chili Technology’s adjustable temperature-control units.

Try to minimize the amount of space used by other furniture. Rather than multiple bureaus, for example, consider using one six-drawer dresser or a highboy. “We tend to see low dressers today, but using vertical space is a good idea when you want to gain more storage for each square foot of floor space used,” Brun says. Other space-savers include trundle beds and storage devices that hang over the door to store jewelry, underwear, shoes, belts and ties. Gilbert suggests incorporating interesting pieces, such as storage ottomans or benches, either at the foot of the bed or under a window. These pieces can create the homey feeling of retreat while adding storage space for blankets, pillows or books. She also recommends applying a simple coat of paint to give smaller furniture added character.

Window treatment and lighting can also open up a room without emptying your wallet. “Purchasing or sewing inexpensive window treatments can really soften up a space,” Gilbert says. “Simple panels coupled with some ready-made sheers create a nice ambiance.” With some purposeful planning, your bedroom can be a place to delight in, not a room to compromise. “A small master can feel deliciously cozy,” Brun says. “That helps give it a sense of sanctuary, and it might even be more romantic.”

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