- Bareo
- September 2025
Master Bedroom on the Ground Floor
The Approach for Luxury Home Design
From Tradition to Modern Adaptation
For centuries, Thai residences—as well as homes in many parts of Asia—were designed with the master bedroom on the second floor or at the very top of the house. This stemmed from a cultural belief that elders should reside “above” others, symbolizing respect and authority. A room on the upper floor not only reflected honor and social standing but also offered privacy and a sense of prestige.
However, lifestyles and social structures have changed with time, raising the question: Does the master bedroom truly belong upstairs?
Looking toward the West, particularly in Europe and the United States, we find that large estates and mansions are often designed with the master bedroom on the ground floor. The primary reason is convenience—minimizing the effort of climbing stairs while allowing homeowners to easily access main areas of the house.
This shift highlights that the placement of a master bedroom has no universal rule. Instead, it should reflect one’s lifestyle, convenience, and harmony with luxury interior design tailored to each cultural context.
Entering the Era of an Silver-Age Society
As Thailand steps into an Silver-Age society, many homeowners who once enjoyed spacious master bedrooms upstairs are now face health challenges, making going up-down stairs increasingly difficult. A common solution is to relocate to smaller rooms on the ground floor, but this brings several inconveniences: unfamiliar surroundings, insufficient space for valuables storage, and emotional discomfort both for the homeowner and family members.
Technology as a Solution—But Not the Ultimate Answer
Some households choose to install home elevators or stair lifts to solve this issue. While these can be practical, they often come with high costs and may disrupt the aesthetic harmony of the original interior design. For many, this feels more like an add-on than a seamless solution.
The New Approach: Ground-Floor Master Bedroom
Today, leading architects and interior design firms in Thailand have embraced a new approach—placing the master bedroom on the ground floor from the very beginning of the design process. This ensures usability from youth through old age, eliminating the need for relocation later in life.
Beyond practicality, a ground-floor master bedroom offers unique experiences that enhance the value of a luxury home:
- A Connection with Nature: Large windows open to lush gardens, creating a refreshing and tranquil atmosphere.
- Wellness-Oriented Living: A private terrace or corner for morning coffee transforms the bedroom into a true wellness space, aligned with modern wellness design trends.
- Luxury Interior Design Integration: Seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor areas add sophistication and elevate the entire home’s character.
- Everyday Convenience: Proximity to main living spaces such as the living room, kitchen, and study makes daily life far more comfortable.
- Privacy by Design: With the expertise of a professional interior design company, the master bedroom can be positioned as a serene retreat with separate access from public areas of the home.
Considerations for Ground-Floor Bedrooms
Despite its many benefits, a ground-floor master bedroom requires careful planning. Such a room typically consumes more space, making it more suitable for larger home. Proper zoning between the kitchen or dining area is crucial to prevent cooking odors from disturbing the living space.
Environmental factors must also be addressed. Homes located in flood-prone or low-lying areas may face risks of water damage, particularly to valuable furnishings and luxury interior finishes. In these cases, solutions such as elevated flooring, moisture-resistant materials, and robust water management systems should be considered from the start.
Expert Recommendations for Luxury Interior Design
One common concern about ground-floor bedrooms in Thailand is the risk of insects or reptiles. However, thoughtful design can eliminate these worries. A well-planned landscape can create buffer zones between the bedroom and dense greenery, while raised terraces and walkways minimize accessibility for unwanted creatures. Certain plants can naturally repel insects, and discreet ultrasonic systems can provide additional protection.
Moreover, choosing an experienced interior design company ensures high-quality materials, proper sealing, and health-safe construction standards. This level of care allows homeowners to enjoy a luxurious master bedroom on the ground floor with peace of mind for years to come.
The concept of “The Modern Master Bedroom Belongs on the Ground Floor” not only addresses the realities of an Silver-age society but also reflects a contemporary lifestyle where convenience, beauty, and luxury coexist harmoniously. For those planning to build a new residence or renovate an existing one, partnering with a trusted interior design firm that understands both the cultural context and the needs of homeowners is the key to achieving a timeless living space—functional for today and adaptable for tomorrow.
Interested in Luxury Ground-Floor Master Bedroom Design?
Bareo is ready to consult, design, and transform your dream bedroom into reality.
- LINE Official: @bareo
- Facebook Fanpage: Design by Bareo
- TEL: +66 (0) 83-899-9989
Image Reference:
Baker, William T. & Lockhart, James R. (2011) Great American Homes. Volume 1. The Images Publishing Group Pty Ltd.
Written by Than.T (Thanchanok Thammakulangkul)
Bachelor of Architecture, First-Class Honors, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (2019), Master of Business Design, Domus Academy, Milan (2020), Grade 106/110 and One-year program in “Chinese for Foreigners,” Donghua University, Shanghai, awarded “Excellent Student” for both semesters (2024–2025)
Passionate about design and writing since high school, Than.T has authored articles on architecture, art, and interior design for over 15 years.
Writing Advisor:
Mr. Worawut Thammakulangkul
Interior Designer and Founder of Bareo Company Limited
With over 35 years of experience, Mr. Worawut stands as one of Thailand’s foremost figures in luxury interior design. His visionary approach has shaped some of the nation’s most distinguished residences—spaces that embody both timeless beauty and the unique lifestyle of each homeowner. As the creative leader behind Bareo’s award-winning projects, he has guided the design team to achieve numerous international accolades. His expertise, artistry, and unwavering dedication continue to elevate Thailand’s interior design industry onto the global stage.
Share This Post
Tag:
CONTENT RELATED
