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Create a beautiful bedroom

The popularity of the master bedroom suite is on the rise. We love larger spaces, sitting rooms, fireplaces, big closets, a wonderful bathroom -- and a lock on the door to shut out the world.

Decorate a bedroom with something you love. Whether soothing neutrals, soft pastels, calming blues, or restful greens, the room should reflect the things that make you happy.

After all, this room is for you.

BEDROOM DECOR FAQs

Q. I need some bedroom decorating inspiration.

See our "B" Site index that includes links to bedroom photos, ideas, and articles. Need inspiration for a bedroom's color scheme? Look at this article on beautiful bedroom color.

Q. I love the look of a canopy bed. Can I make one?

There are many looks possible for a canopy bed. Some may require professional fabrication while other simpler looks can easily be made by clever do-it-yourselfers. Browse this article for photos and ideas.

Q. Cottage style really appeals to me but I don't know how to achieve this look. Any tips?

Explore the links on this page of Cottage Style links and you'll have a better concept of this homey look.

Q. I have a big bedroom with a bed and a sitting area, but there's still too much floorspace that's empty. Any suggestions?

You might put a bookcase or armoire in the sitting area so the chairs are brought out into the room a bit further. Also, place a piece of furniture at the end of the bed for function or visual interest.

Q. I saw a photo of a bedroom where the bed was placed at an angle in the corner. I want to do this but my husband says it won't fit. What should I do?

An angled bed is a great look. However, it does have drawbacks. First you'll need to find some way to fill the empty corner space it creates behind the headboard. A plant is perfect, but may be hard to care for in that location. Next, you probably won't have room for your regular nightstands next to the bed. Instead you'll need to find some tiny tables or live without a surface next to the bed. An angled bed can sometimes make opening doors and windows difficult, so try taping off the area to see exactly how much space the bed will take up in the room. If these challenges don't bother you then go ahead and try it.

Q. What can I use on my bed that's different from the usual shams and decorative pillows?

Many elegant bedrooms are showing bolsters the full width of the bed. These can be any shape, but a cylinder may be most pleasing. Instead of stacking your shams vertically like books in a bookcase, try stacking them horizontally on top of each other, from the largest on the bottom to a smaller decorative pillow at the top.

Q. Where can I find sources and information on fine bed linens?

Try this list of links to sites for luxury linens.

Q. I have a new house with a large master bedroom (my last apartment was small), but I dont really want nightstands. What can I use instead?

Nightstands are generally too small and can look insignificant next to a large bed or in a big room. Instead, look for a pretty chest of drawers or cabinet. On the other side of the bed you might put a pedestal table, a library table, or even a skirted plywood table. Choosing non-matching pieces will give your room an "acquired" look, as though you've been collecting furniture for years.

Q. What should I look for when buying bedding?

Browse these informational articles on before you buy bedding, including tips on pillows, comforters, sheets, bedskirts, and more. Also, see the links on the bedding links pages for more information.

Q. Should I wash sheets in cold or warm water?

You'll find lots of common sense linen care tips in this feature.