Feather Your Nest

Lounge the Day Away

• The bedroom should also include a comfortable chair and ottoman with a floor lamp for reading or just relaxing with a cup of tea. A chaise longue is also perfect for dozing on a rainy afternoon. A small desk or side table in your seating area provides a place for letter or journal writing.
• If your bedroom is small (not many bedrooms can accomodate a chaise longue), designate a corner of the room as your own little sanctuary. A few big floor pillows or a small side chair and footstool will fit into even the tiniest space. If you're fortunate enough to have a window seat, cover it with a soft fabric and include lots of fluffy pillows for extra comfort.
• Finally, fill your sanctuary with your favorite sounds. A small stereo with great sound can set the proper mood in your retreat. Listen to soft jazz or classical music, or purchase CDs with nature sounds to help lull you to sleep.

Now that you've created a comfortable retreat, don't feel guilty about taking those cat naps. In our hectic world, relaxation is a luxury we should afford ourselves daily.

RESOURCES: Dan Carithers, Dan Carithers Design Consultant, 404/355-8661. Alessandra Branca, Branca, 312/787-6123, www.branca.com.