Private retreats
In an alcove off the master bedrooms, up in a loft –there are lots of places for a private retreat. Just look around your house for any unused space or odd niche, and then add seating, a little light and perhaps a small table or a bookshelf.
A retreat off a master bedroom can be created by clustering furniture to make a room within a room. Using the same fabric for the upholstery and bedspread will give the room a pleasant, unified look. You can coordinate the draperies too, if the fabric isn’t overwhelming for of the size of the room.
Lofts make wonderful retreats –you can literally climb above it all. If your ceiling is high enough adding a loft to a room is rather like constructing a built in bunk bed with only the upper bunk. If your ceiling is too low, consider removing part of it and finishing any unused attic space as a loft. Either way you’ll want to plan for adequate access. If you are very agile, a straight ladder will do. Otherwise a spiral or standard staircase is best.
A loft for snoozing or reading needn’t be very large or have much headroom –think of any loft as an indoor balcony. With a little planning, you may be able to slip one in a family room or living room. The space left under the loft can be used for a desk or storage.
Symphony in green and white
Two love seats, face to face with a coffee table and a low bookcase make a room within a room. The striking green and white fabric used as upholstery, bedspread and headboard gives the room its unified, sophisticated look. Architect: George Cody.