Monday, April 11, 2011

Round 3 - Master Suite Redecoration

I just found out that I passed round 3 and get to stay in the competition!  The task was to redesign and/or redecorate Agnes Crumplebottom's master suite.  She wanted color, a place to work on writing and a place to read.  She's also frugal, so the goal was to use as little of her 20,000 simoleon budget as possible.  I felt a little guilty about not being as frugal as others, but I firmly believe that where you sleep (and work, if it's at home) should be a safe haven for your mind and body.  I splurged a bit for indulgence's sake.  I'm incredibly impressed that one of the contestants redid the room for no cost and would have been able to actually give Agnes 1 simoleon back!

Anyway, here is a transcript of my presentation to Agnes and the SHGC team:

 Let me introduce you to your oasis of calm and focus.

 
Your goal was to have a sanctuary where you could retreat from guests and stress to focus on relaxation and your writing. Since this area is solely for your use, I've been able to focus on luxury and relaxation instead of separation between the different areas of the master suite. We've gone a little high on the budget, but I think you'll agree that what we've gained is worth the price, particularly since we've reused many of your current pieces and used the budget on important additions.

To maximize the relaxation potential of this intimate area, I've incorporated feng shui principles into its design. Whether or not one believes in the flow of energy, feng shui emphasizes practical design ideas that benefit any room. According to scientific study, certain shades of blue release calming chemicals in the body, so that is our main color. According to feng shui, the most relaxing bedroom colors are "skin tones", so I've accented with cream and spice brown. To enhance a relaxing spa feel, I've used natural wood furniture in both medium and light colors.

Since you love the wood flooring in your bedroom, I've continued that into the bathroom. I've also had the window frames stained to match. I've brightened the sitting and study area with floor length windows while keeping the sleeping area cozy with no windows but candles instead. The bed, covered with natural fiber sheets, is in its own alcove and has a view of the door but is not directly in line with it. According to feng shui, this gives the bed a commanding position in the room. This, combined with the strong headboard and lack of windows around it, provides protection and support while you sleep. Your bed was already perfect for feng shui, and I've continued your nightstand arrangement as the symmetry grounds the bed.


Keeping our feng shui concepts in mind, the soft candle lighting has been continued throughout the suite. To minimize the electricity used in this bedroom retreat, only candlelight has been used. The led alarm has been replaced with a quaint wind-up clock. Don't worry.  It's guaranteed. And your tv is still around, just in family storage, so it can easily be placed elsewhere in the house.

Our one electrical device is the computer. I've chosen a top-of-the-line model which will allow you to work without frustration. I've created an inspiring and slightly dramatic theater setting for this repurposed desk to encourage creativity. It's also been placed in a commanding position in the room. The chair has specifically been chosen to give the highest comfort possible. I know you enjoy the romances, so I've chosen a mysterious and romantic piece of art as inspiration. The spice brown fabric framing the desk also sets off the bedroom door and is used in the bathroom rug, so we have pattern continuity throughout the suite.


And now we come to the focal point of both areas. There's nothing more relaxing to me than a cozy fireplace in the bedroom, and nothing more luxurious than a fireplace in the bathroom. I've opened up the space between these rooms to allow them both to share the same fireplace. The firebox itself is the same metal carried out in several accents around the room, and the rest is smooth wood of varying shades. I've refinished your loveseat and reused it here. The subtle blue cherry pattern is repeated in reverse in the bathroom. The bookshelf is natural wood with tastefully arranged plants. The floor candelabras provide reading light.


Moving into the bathroom, you'll find that this is an area for releasing any stress of the day. The stone tub is set near the fireplace for ultimate comfort and pampering. I've chosen to add a shower and have repeated the lovely wood variations used on the fireplace. While this is a fairly open floor plan, you'll see that certain private areas are maintained. Similar to the bed, the toilet has its own alcove hiding it from view. This was essential because I didn't want to hide the beautiful - and large - windows with blinds. However, there are curtains on the windows for the times when the shower or bath is in use.


A comfortable chair that incorporates the bed's drapery pattern is conveniently placed for dressing and relaxation in front of the lovely view. The shape of these gorgeous windows has been continued in the vanity mirror. I've chosen a single stone sink with large natural wood counters, again finished on top with the wood used in the fireplace. You'll have ample storage in this bathroom! A little greenery highlights the vanity and a candle display has been created on the counter.


I think I've created a room that is focused on relaxation, healing and love. You've seen the wonderful additions I've made to the room: the fireplace, shower and inspirational study area as well as the convenient alcoves that open yet separate the suite. Now that you've seen this sanctuary, I think you'll agree that a price tag of 13,663 simoleons is a fair tradeoff for the luxurious oasis you gain. Imagine the books you will write in this room! The inspiration is all around you, both inside and through the stunning views. The nurturing atmosphere is designed to allow your mind to be free of the stresses of every day life and instead focus on what's truly important... your creativity, your abilities... you. This room is all about you and your dreams, and I think it will take you where you want to go.