The New Master Suite: How Suite it is

The humble bedroom got its name because of its purpose. But today, more and more homeowners view the bedroom as a place to escape from life's burdens. It's become a private sanctuary, not just a place to sleep.

In recent years, builders have been constructing homes with attached his-and-her bathrooms, walk-in closets and dressing rooms. And homeowners are expanding their bedrooms in other ways. More people are hiring contractors to create bedroom suites with nooks for reading, television-viewing, working and, yes, sleeping.

"There are two major places people reinvest in their existing housing stock," says Dale Mulfinger, cofounder of SALA Architects, a Minneapolis firm that specializes in residential design. "The kitchen and the bedroom."

The possibilities for bedroom add-ons are endless. Many homeowners are adding space in innovative ways:

Almost every new bedroom suite includes an extra place to curl up and sleep. That's because many people struggle with sleeping through the night or live with someone who snores. A sofa that doubles as an extra bed helps resolve this problem.

"Mainly women—who are not the snorers—have moved into the space," says Mark Nash, author of "What's In, What's Out With Homebuyers in 2007."

Here are a few questions to ponder as you dream about your bedroom suite:

• Would you and your partner like separate spaces for reading, watching TV or working before falling asleep?
• Does either of you suffer from sleep problems?
• What additional features would turn your humble bedroom into a luxurious in-home getaway?