Husbands come home after a long day of work and want to unwind in a space they can relate to. Wives like to pamper themselves and take time in front of the dresser. Knowing men are from Mars and women are from Venus, how can one design the master bedroom so that they both remain happy? The key is a balance between soft and masculine design elements.

Every couple will benefit from living in a bedroom that has been carefully designed and talked through by both parties. The process may seem like you’re planning your wedding all over again, but living in a haven you both love is the key to satisfaction. Make planning fun by looking at magazines of homes and bedrooms together. Cut out pictures of what you like, compare, and then compromise on what will work for both of you. The key is to balance every item with another, and you’ll achieve the perfect master bedroom that you will both truly love.

Browse through the gallery for tips on decorating your little nook.

(First published in the June 2009 issue of Good Housekeeping Philippines, Features section as "A Truly Shared Space;" adapted for use in Female Network; photo by Neal Communities via Flickr Creative Commons)