Large bedrooms are a wonderful luxury, but creating intimate and personal spaces can present a design challenge. Host Joan Kohn explores some of the tricks of the design trade that can be used for separating different functional areas in the master suite.

Niches, alcoves and bump-outs provide semi-enclosed areas in which to create intimate seating.

A change in floor levels creates a sense of drama and entry for this bedroom.

A seating area can be made more defined and comfortable with a soft rug underfoot.

Color can be used to gently define different spaces and functions in the bedroom.

• Architectural changes--half walls, columns, niches, bump-outs and alcoves--can define spaces and create intimate areas.
  
• A pocket door makes an excellent divider that also presents a sense of entry into a room. It provides privacy when necessary and is hidden when not in use.
  
• Curtains hung as a room divider can partition a room without any architectural changes.
  
• Area rugs can provide contrasting texture and color that help define a space.
  
• A change of flooring is one of the best ways to indicate changes of function.
  
• The way furniture is positioned can help define a space. For instance, the direction a couch opens draws that space into the couch’s orbit.

GUESTS:
Michelle Shields
Designer, The Great Room Company
407 The Hill
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Phone: 603-431-3800 Fax: 603-431-4550
E-mail: michelle@greatroom.com
Website: http://www.greatroom.com/