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Get Away!
Create an Island Retreat in Your Master Bedroom By Teri Brown
Kathy Peterson, designer and author of Kathy Peterson's Great Outdoor Decorating Makeovers (Watson-Guptill Publications, 2004), believes artwork is essential to creating that island oasis. "The ideal artwork would be soft water colors (original or prints) of the ocean, perhaps with an impressionistic style, framed with a white-washed frame," she says. "Also consider adding art to your headboard or furniture, such as sea oats, a subtle star fish or perhaps a subtle palm tree, but don't go overboard! Less is best."
Creating a tropical retreat in your master bedroom is not only relaxing, but invigorating. It helps you relax in the evening and sends you off happy and refreshed the next morning. Peterson gives some easy do it yourself tips for crafting your own island paradise:
- Start with soothing colors like sand, sea foam green, soft blue, etc. on your walls and furniture. If painting furniture, start with a white base or primer coat, and then add a few light coats of paint. Once dry, gently sand the furniture to create a weathered look.
- If applicable, corner your bed and nestle a faux palm tree in the corner. Add an up light for evening drama or add twinkle lights in the palm for added appeal.
- Netting over your bed can be expensive, but check out fabric stores for inexpensive tooling or cheese cloth. Simply attach cup hooks to the ceiling, and drape. This is also good for draping over curtains and mirrors.
- Add sandy-like texture to accessories using special spray paints on lamp bases, vases, storage boxes, etc.
- Cool, crisp sheets in light airy colors and a simple white or pale color of blue cover will make the room feel island like and restful.
- Add mirrors. Mirrors add light and are especially romantic when used with candles.
