One of my favorite rooms in my new house is the master bedroom. The room feels calm, simple, and relaxed with a neutral black and white color pallet but still warm with wood tones and fabric textures. I will likely still add some artwork or mirrors over the nightstands which is a work in progress. I gave myself a flexible budget for this room because I was replacing furniture that was eighteen years old, but you may be surprised at how easy it is to replicate the look for less. Even if you are not ready for the full overhaul, a quick refresh can include new nightstands, pillows, bedding, artwork, lighting, or a reading nook to create a fresh, functional space.
Nightstands
If your existing bed frame is wood, pick a nightstand color that will contrast – black is always a great option. Fabric bed frames provide the most flexibility (and comfort!) and you can choose any wood finish you like. I like large bedside tables in the master bedroom (34W x 18D x 24H) so there is plenty of room for a lamp, water, small décor, and my electronics (bad I know). Lamps from Overstock currently out of stock but lots of similar options available. My guest rooms have smaller nightstands (17.75W x 25.5D x. 24.5H) because the rooms are smaller and the prices are better – see the one I got on Amazon. Nightstand round-up coming shortly.
Bedding
New bedding adds comfort as well as style. I recommend sticking with white for sheets and a duvet which gives you the option to replace blankets and pillows more frequently. Linen sheets are divine because they are so soft and breathable – trust me once you have them you will never go back. I recently purchased a King-sized linen sheet set at Restoration Hardware outlet for $99 which was the steal of the year. Other favorite resources for bedding are Parachute or Brooklinen (high end) and Wayfair or Bed Bath and Beyond provide options at various price points. The striped Moroccan blanket below is sooo good for a very reasonable price though my husband still doesn’t understand why we need a “decorative blanket”.
Pillows
In addition to decorative pillows, you should also consider upgrading the pillows you sleep on. For sleeping, try memory foam pillows which will probably take you at least a week to get use to but will change your life for the better. I like Temperpedic brand pillows and Bed, Bath and Beyond has a lot of options at various price points plus you can always find a 20% off coupon. Mackensie Bryant on Etsy or Woven Nook are your best shops for amazing and affordable decorative pillows. Homegoods has some great budget-friendly pillow options if you want to splurge somewhere else. Decorative pillow round-up coming shortly.
Artwork
Large scale artwork works well in a master bedroom either behind the bedside tables or on a large blank wall. Post in the works on large art – stay tuned.
Rug
I recommend an 8×10’ foot rug at minimum to run horizontally under a queen or king bed. My room has a 9×12’ rug because it is quite large at around 20×20’. I purchased this rug for my family room but it was too small and I could not bear to send it back as it is the best rug I have ever purchased and the silk/wool combo is so soft with NO shedding. Check out this post for more tips on rugs and 30 great black and white options that can provide a neutral and grounding layer. Favorite resources for rugs are Wayfair, West Elm, and Crate and Barrel.
Lighting
A new light can change the feel as well as the look of the room for a very small cost. We have a ceiling fan in our bedroom and I do not hate it one bit It was hard to let go of the idea of the dream light I had been planning even before we bought the house, but the cool breeze and lower air conditioning bills are well worth the trade. If you do not live in California (or a similar climate where it is warm year-round) a check out these chandeliers.
Reading nook
Add a reading nook with a chair (or two if there is room) and a floor lamp to create a quiet escape where you can hide from the kids – I mean catch up on your reading.
The Look for Less
Here are some good substitutes for some of the furniture that will allow you to get the look for less.
$3000
$733
$980
$299
$660
$189
$1000/per chair & ottoman
(no source, purchased from stager)
$560/per chair
How long have you had your master bedroom furniture? The master bedroom is often left for last because it is not the most visible space – if you find something you love but it is $$ there is almost always a look for less! Let me know if I can help, I love a good treasure hunt!