Design Advice: Intimate Large Bedroom

Peter Dunham designed bedroom in Elle Decor

I recently received an email from a reader asking for advice regarding her master bedroom.  She says "I have a very large bedroom and a queen bed how do I make my bedroom feel intimate but at the same time not cluttered?"  Now, first I wish we all had the too-large-bedroom problem.  But this can be an issue for those fortunate ones and here are some suggestions to help.

1. I suggest getting a poster or canopy bed.  This creates a room within a room.

J. Randall Powers designed bedroom in House Beautiful

2. Create a seating area with a sofa or a couple of upholstered chairs.  Lay coordinating rugs under the bed and in the seating area.

Southern Living 2009 Design Idea House

3. Use lamps, if you have one overhead light it unifies the space.  But lamps will light up separate areas allowing the eye to take in each individually.

Vicki Posey Atlanta Holiday House 2009

4. Upholster the walls, a pricey option, but this will eliminate any echo and soften the hard corners.

House Beautiful featuring Markham Roberts

5. Use a pair of large bookcases, plants, sofas, dressers, armoires, etc.  These pieces will command attention and dominate the space.

House by Michael Smith in Elle Decor

6. Don't fill every space and avoid small pieces that will clutter the room.

Kathryn Ireland in Greystone Mansion for Veranda