Most homeowners consider the master bedroom their sanctuary. It’s the one space in the house that’s totally private. Owners go there to feel snug, secure, and “away from it all.”  But five years ago, log home enthusiasts were building bedrooms so large they rivaled the size of many people’s entire homes. Voluminous footage, vaulted ceilings, chambers within the chambers became commonplace. Features like elaborate exercise nooks, coffee bars—even kitchenettes—started popping up. …

We often pour energy and creativity into the “public” rooms in our houses: great rooms, kitchens, and entertainment rooms. But we should reserve some of that care and effort to create an idyllic environment in our most personal rooms: the bedrooms. Resist the temptation to make your bedroom multifunctional: studies show that we sleep better when we reserve our bedrooms for relaxation, not work. From layout to furnishings, your bedroom designs should reflect your …