Since we spend about a third of our lives sleeping , we should place high importance on the look and feel of the master bedroom. Follow these tips to transform one of the most important rooms of your home into a relaxing sanctuary.

What to Bring In

• Neutral Colors -- Light, neutral hues like creams, taupes, grays and blues provide a tranquil atmosphere. Use soft, coordinating colors for your bedding and walls.
• Soft Lighting -- Overhead lighting can sometimes be harsh or too concentrated. Create a soothing mood with soft, balanced lighting throughout the room. Add lamps to brighten dark corners and illuminate each side of the bed.
• Window Treatments -- A sense of privacy is essential to any sanctuary. Window treatments offer coverage from the outside world and can be a beautiful design element. If outside lighting disrupts your sleep, consider blackout curtains.

What to Take Out

• Outdated Bedding -- A relaxing bedroom begins with a comfortable bed. Most experts recommend replacing your mattress every eight years . Pillows should be replaced every two to three years or every six months if you have asthma or allergies.
• Excess Furniture -- Get back to basics by paring down your bedroom to just the essentials. Most people require little more than a bed frame, a couple of matching nightstands and a dresser or chest of drawers. Anything more can quickly become clutter.
• Unnecessary Electronics -- From more sleep to better family relationships, there are numerous benefits of having a technology-free bedroom . Reserve your master bedroom for rest and relaxation, and keep electronics out.

Make over your master bedroom into a serene space you look forward to at the end of a long day. These tips can help you get started.