But you’re confused on where to start and what to replace.  Floral metallic wallpaper, worn shag carpet, peppermint tiles and fixtures in the small adjoining bath, miniscule windows that barely let the light it, popcorn ceilings covered in dust, and oh that TV that’s better used as a boat anchor!

Real Estate Experts say that upgrades to the kitchen provide the best return on investment. As an Interior Designer, I say that remodeling and redecorating dollars are heavenly investments when thoughtfully used in the Master Bedroom!  Here are my top ten suggestions for your bedroom makeover!

1. 1.) Simplicity is critical to a restful nights sleep as cluttered spaces make a room feel smaller.

2. 2.) Spaciousness doesn’t have to be a luxury.  If space doesn’t allow for a separate sitting room in your master suite, consider grouping furniture to create individual spaces within one room for meditation, sleep, and of course your spa-like bath.

3. 3.) Ambiance renews us.  I love a fireplace to add the ultimate luxury to master bedrooms.  Not only does a fireplace add warmth, it adds atmosphere and romance.  If you’re remodeling your master retreat, try to place your fireplace on a shared wall so it can be enjoyed in multiple areas of your bedroom or bath.

4. 4.) Sunlight helps us thrive! Consider adding French doors that open to your deck or patio or a wall of windows to flood the room with natural sunlight.

5. 5.) Paint is inexpensive and easily changed as your personal style evolves. If your room has a great deal of natural light, cozy it up with warm tones to darker hues of browns, oranges, reds and golds.

   To create a tranquil spa like space, select cooler shades of soft blues and greens like this year’s hottest colors of margarita and cockatoo for relaxation and sophistication.

   Neutrals like driftwood and starfish are always a good choice for a balanced and peaceful space.  These neutrals are ideal if you have a smaller room without an abundance of natural light.  Keep your overall palette for walls and carpet lighter and accent with colors and textures to give the room interest.

   To add depth to your room, accent with a darker color but limit this bold color to one statement wall and use lighter colors on the remaining walls.  From a design perspective, your headboard wall makes for a great statement wall and draws one’s attention when entering the bedroom.

6. 6.) Wall Treatments like Venetian plaster and faux painted walls create warmth and luxury as well as making a stunning backdrop for art.  When paired with shiny satin bedding, the look is sophisticated and upscale.

7. 7.) Bedding is the key to a good nights sleep but again personal preference comes into play.  Egyptian Cotton Sheets (be sure to look for a thread count of 600+) creates comfort while satin sheets create a sensual experience.

   Today’s trendsetting bedrooms feature bedding with a light and fluffy look and feel.  
   Layer your bedding with a soft throw over a down comforter.  Remember in Colorado (with our ever changing weather) to incorporate a warmer blanket with a soft lightweight one underneath.

8. 8.) Window Treatments serve several uses from blocking light and outside temperatures to style and aesthetics. A personal favorite of mine is to use an open weave ceiling to floor soft panel for drapes with a woven wood blind underneath.   A great idea for those who need to black out their room is to select drapes with a separate blackout liner underneath so you can use separately or together.

9. 9.) Furniture should reflect your personal style. Furniture should be placed for comfort, flow and functionality.  If you room allows, have a separate conversation or TV area from your sleeping area.  Incorporate a few nice pieces of furniture to create a clean and simple look. A bench placed at the foot of the bed provides additional seating and storage.  Chest of drawers work well for nightstands as they also allow for much needed bedroom storage.  A comfy chair, draped with a chenille throw, paired with a simple side table makes for the perfect seating area.

10. 10.) Accessories are about personalization! Use candles placed on nightstands to create romance. Pictures of friends and family (in an assortment of eclectic frames) add warmth and authenticity to your space. Use lamps to add lighting but also style.  Integrate mirrors into your design scheme to add depth and dimension. Bigger is better in design so use larger simpler accessories and a few large pillows instead of getting carried away with smaller ones.  The reason! The men in our lives hate throw pillows!

Remember sleep is one of the most important activities of our day. However, your bedroom is not only a place for sleeping but also a private getaway.  It’s our private space to retreat and recharge. Your ultimate goal should be to create a room that fills a variety of needs for safety, luxury, simplicity, and relaxation – a personal sanctuary in your home! But, as with any interior design project, it’s often times a lot more difficult than what we see on HGTV!  If you would like a interior design consultation for your master bedroom, contact Katherine Speas, Speas Interior Design. An award winning Colorado Springs Interior Designer, Kathy Speas is a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers and an expert on incorporating style, comfort, and livability into your home and lifestyle. SpeasInteriorDesign.com.