Tips for redecorating master bedrooms

Q. I want to redecorate our master bedroom. Do you have any suggestions for color and furniture placement?

A. Your master bedroom should be your sanctuary. The goal is to create a space that is comfortable and relaxing for both you and your spouse. You want your room to be as luxurious and romantic as your favorite hotel, or bed and breakfast. Here are some easy to follow tips that will help you decorate in any style that suits you.

1. Keep furniture pieces to a minimum. The most common mistake in master bedrooms is buying bedroom suites; the bed, the nightstands, and all four dressers that go with it. Purchase only pieces that you absolutely need and mix it up a little bit by not having all the pieces exactly match.

2. Invest in your bed. This is by far the most important piece in the room. If your bed is from a previous relationship, get rid of it. If it is too small, too big, lumpy, old or just plain uncomfortable it is time to replace it. Position the head of the bed against a solid wall where you can see the door. Dress the bed in the highest quality of bed linens that you can afford. Avoid covering the bed with stuffed animals and frilly pillows; this does not put most men in a romantic mood.

3. Color. Generally speaking, earth tones, neutrals and soft pastels are soothing for most people. If you are decorating for a couple keep the color gender-neutral. Ladies, that means no pink. Since everybody sees color differently, ask your partner what colors make them feel calm and relaxed.

4. Get rid of the clutter. Less is more, especially in the bedroom. Do you have any possessions from a past relationship? If so, put them away. Pictures of family, friends, and even your children are usually not a good idea for the bedroom. Subconsciously you feel like they are watching you. Keep only the items that invoke a romantic feeling or memory when you look at them.

5. Accessories should be kept simple and to a minimum. Romantic artwork, flowers, candles, and photos of the two of you. Men, resist putting your latest full elk mount in the bedroom. Office and exercise equipment should also be banned from the bedroom. If you don't have anywhere else to put it at least try to conceal it so you can't see it from the bed.

When creating the ultimate master bedroom, keep in mind the five senses. Scented candles will appeal to your sense of smell, a fur throw and fluffy pillows are great to touch, warm color and romantic art will satisfy your sense of sight, and sound could be soft music or a water fountain. Finally, don't forget the chocolate on the pillow for your taste buds.

Catherine Peressini is an area interior designer. Address questions you'd like to see answered to thedesigngrp@hotmail.com.