A luxurious master suite doesn’t have to be expensive. What it needs is planning from the start, so the room works as both a sanctuary and a genuinely restful place to sleep. Here’s what to think through before you settle on a layout.
Create an ensuite
An ensuite is close to essential for a master suite that feels elevated, though it can be daunting to design well. Deciding on a colour palette early makes the transition between bedroom and ensuite feel considered rather than accidental, and helps you avoid a clash you don’t notice until it’s built.
Window coverings
Blinds, shutters and curtains all do different jobs. Your choice will depend on the room’s orientation, how much natural light and privacy you need, and the thermal performance you’re after. Deciding early gives you a consistent flow from the bedroom through the rest of the house.
Walk-in robes
If you have the space, a walk-in robe is one of the most luxurious additions you can make to a master suite, whether that’s a single large robe or a his-and-hers layout. The right consultants from the start will often fit more into a space than you’d expect.
Paint
Neutral colours give you the most flexibility to layer in colour through artwork, bed linen and furniture. Bright colours bring energy into a room that’s meant to support rest, which works against what you’re trying to create.
Add a seating area
If the room doubles as a retreat, a small lounge or a single comfortable chair changes how you use it. Think about what you’ll actually do there, whether that’s reading or simply having somewhere to sit, and let a good view or a quiet corner determine where it goes.
Add storage or shelving
Built-in storage or shelving is worth considering early, whether it ends up in the bedroom, the robe or the ensuite. What you’ll use it for should determine where it goes.
Lighting
Maximise natural light during the day where you can. For artificial lighting, warmer and more ambient tones suit a bedroom better than anything bright, and a dimmer avoids harsh light early in the morning or late at night.
Bed
This is the piece the whole room is built around, and where most of your budget should go given how much time you’ll spend using it. Settle on the size before you finalise the room layout, since it determines how much space is left for everything else.
