Does your master suite need a refresh? Don’t start picking out paint just yet! There are lots of ways to update your master bed and bath without undertaking an expensive remodel. If you’re itching for a new look but you’re on a budget, try one of these creative master suite updates.
Create a Sleep Sanctuary
Sleep quality should be the top priority for any bedroom update.
For the best sleep possible, your bedroom should be dark, quiet, and cool. If your master suite doesn’t already have these features, plan a mini-remodel to add them.
- Comfortable bedding. In addition to a supportive mattress for pain-free sleep, buy breathable bedding made from natural fibers.
- Darkness. Install blackout shades to ensure total darkness after bedtime. To avoid getting jolted awake by bright lights during nighttime trips to the bathroom, install a dimmer switch in the en suite bathroom.
- Cool temperatures. Use a programmable thermostat to lower household temperatures at night and install a ceiling fan in the bedroom to keep air moving.
- Soundproofing. Carpeting or area rugs and curtains provide light soundproofing. If outside noise still seeps in (or silence is too much for you), add a white noise machine.
- Aromatherapy. Certain scents promote relaxation. Try a satchel of lavender flowers in your pillowcase or an essential oil diffuser to imbue the bedroom with a soothing aroma.
Change the Color Scheme
Bedroom colors should be simple and soothing, but that doesn’t mean your master suite color scheme has to be dull or exceptionally boring.
Instead of repainting the walls, add color with accents. Choose two or three complementary colors and incorporate them in the following updates.
- Linens. Add a new duvet cover and decorative bed pillows in the bedroom. For the bathroom, buy new bath towels, bath mats, and toilet lid covers.
- Window treatments. Drapes have a big impact on your master suite design.
- Furniture. Replace your headboard and buy a new end of bed ottoman. If you’re the DIY type, refinish wooden furniture like dressers and nightstands. Read True Value’s guide to learn how to strip wooden furniture and stain or paint it a new shade.
- Hardware. If the hardware is giving the master suite an outdated look, replace it. Get started with cabinet hardware here, then install new lighting and plumbing fixtures.
Go Minimalist
Sometimes less is more. If a busy master suite is affecting your ability to sleep, take a different approach to bed and bath design and organization.
Even if you adore busy décor in the rest of the home, these minimalism-inspired touches could lead to a better night’s sleep.
- Hidden storage. Built-in cabinets and under-bed drawers are among the options for hidden bedroom storage. If there’s too much to store neatly, declutter and get rid of anything you don’t need in the master suite.
- Solid colors. Replace patterned bedspreads and area rugs with solid colors in muted, earthy tones. These will help inspire relaxation.
- Natural light. Pairing sheer drapes with blackout shades will allow you to customize light levels according to the time of day.
- Houseplants. Instead of paintings and family portraits, stick to one or two pieces of art and use houseplants to liven the space (and improve air quality) instead.
The master suite should be a sanctuary from the demands of everyday life. Unfortunately, in most homes, master suite décor tends to be an afterthought. Living with a bed and bath you don’t enjoy isn’t just disappointing, it could also interfere with the quality of your sleep. Instead of spending another night in a bedroom that you don’t adore, use these ideas to plan a cost-effective update for your home’s master suite.
