By Vicki O’Neal,
CID, ASID
THE PHYSICAL LAYOUT
The master suite typically consists of
the bedroom, bath, and closet. Today’s
larger arrangements might incorporate a
reading or TV area, library or computer
alcove, meditation space, his and her closets,
an espresso bar with a mini fridge, or
even a fireplace. By knocking out a wall
or incorporating adjacent square footage,
these areas can overflow one into the next,
creating an expansive feeling. Functions
that are typically behind closed doors are
finding new quarters in an unencumbered
flow. For instance, stylish closet built-ins,
a makeup or sink area, even a whirlpool
may be discretely open to the bedroom,
perhaps located behind partial height walls
or screens.
The most important piece of furniture in
the bedroom is always the bed, so position
it for maximum effectiveness visually, and
let everything else fall in around it. Locating
the bed so as to have a view of the door
is not only practical but also a principle of
Feng Shui. An alternate layout which obstructs
your view of someone entering the
room may actually be disruptive to your
nervous system, and potentially interfere
subconsciously with restful sleep.
CONNECTION TO NATURE
Many people are seeking an opportunity
to bring a bit of nature into their
personal retreat. This is most easily accomplished
if your bedroom is situated
on the first floor. In addition to the other
conveniences of a first floor location, another
plus is the possibility of creating
a unique connection to the outdoors or
perhaps a private garden. The connection
to nature can be not only visual, but might allow access via a pair of French
doors opening onto a cozy patio or veranda.
Enjoying these private gardens,
especially in the evening, is a great way
to unwind after a long day.
These advantages are good reasons to
consider a first floor master bedroom
when shopping for a new home or
planning a major addition or remodel.
Downsides of a first floor master may
be privacy and acoustic control, but solutions
can be worked into the design
through layout and material selections.
LIGHTING
In the bedroom, lighting needs vary
throughout the day and evening. Controlling
natural light with shades or black-out
drapery liners may be a priority if the sun
is disruptive to your sleep, or your schedule
requires sleep during daylight hours. Reading
lamps are typically located on bedside
tables, but good overall illumination is important
for other tasks such as cleaning.
Lighting in the bathroom is a completely
different story. High light levels are necessary
not only functionally, but also due to
safety concerns. Lighting is typically concentrated
at the mirrors and perhaps a
makeup area, and also near the tub and/ or
shower. Dimmers are helpful if you like to
take a long soaking bath because they create
the mood of candlelight without the
risk. Closets need a high lighting level as
well, and color corrected light bulbs are
great for producing truer color rendition,
and ultimately putting that special outfit
together with style. There are specific code
requirements for lighting in closets due to
fire danger.
COLOR AND MATERIALS
Color always invokes an emotional response.
Personal color preferences are based on gender,
age, culture, background, where you live, and
many other factors. Colors are also interpreted
as part of their context and surrounding. What
one may describe as “cozy,” for instance, may
invoke a completely different reaction from their
partner. In the bedroom, it’s important to choose
a color scheme that is restful and relaxing, and
promotes balance and well being. Earthy colors
are a great choice, but be careful when selecting a
specific shade. There are very subtle differences
between those hundreds of paint chips, so preparing
a test area is a very wise first step.
In the bathroom or an adjacent sitting area,
I like to choose cheerful colors that enliven the
space and create energy. Nothing subtle need live
here. When developing a color scheme, choosing
a relatively basic palette for permanent materials
such as flooring, tile or granite is always a good
place to start. Paint colors and accessories are
much easier and less expensive to change. The
color splash and panache can be brought in with
paint, linens and fabrics, or artwork. Rugs and
decorative pillows are also a fun way to bring
in some hot colors, patterns and accents. In the
bathroom, keep in mind that materials, especially
on the wall, are reflected into the mirror and
ultimately onto your skin. Consequently, choosing
colors that are complementary to skin tones
is a consideration.
FURNITURE
Bedding style can be somewhat of a moving
target. For instance, is the mattress fat or thin,
high or low. Many people love a massive kingsize
bed, but unless the size of the room is appropriate,
a king-size bed can easily overtake
and dominate a bedroom. Other large pieces of
furniture such as a triple dresser or armoire may also be out of scale. Open areas and negative
space play an equally important role in the spatial
composition. When shopping for furniture,
it’s always a good practice to take measurements
and plan how the furniture will be arranged in
the room before purchasing. This assessment can
be taken to the next level to include a physical
mock up of the furniture layout in the space.
CLOSETS AND STORAGE
Those clothes, the shoes, the winter
coats, belts, hats... All that stuff
needs a home! Your closet can be
simple hanging and shelving, or it
can be as elaborate and specialized
as the items needing to be stored.
For the ultimate in convenience,
handsome custom closets can be
designed to incorporate every sort
of storage need- flexible hanging
arrangements, cabinets with
divided drawers, valet rods, tie or
belt racks, jewelry drawers, shelves
and cubbies... Chances are, simple
organization can make it easier to
use and more functional than it
probably is today. Seasonal storage
is always a challenge but can
be managed with ease if well organized.
Always be sure the closet is
well ventilated. Cedar lining is an
option to provide moth protection
and a great fresh scent.
_______________________________
Vicki O’Neal, owner of FORM & FUNCTION, provides
commercial and residential interior and landscape
design. She is a professional member of ASID, VA Certified
Interior Designer (CID), Master Gardener, and a
VA Certified Landscape Designer and Horticulturist.
(804) 897-8558 | www.form-and-function.us
The material contained in articles written by Vicki O’Neal is
intended for general information only. |
