When people talk about buying or selling a home, one of the most attractive features is often the “master bedroom.” But what makes this room so important?
The master bedroom is usually the largest and most private space in the house. It often comes with its own bathroom and extra comfort features that set it apart from other bedrooms.
In this article, we’ll explain what a master bedroom really is, where the term came from, how it’s different from other room types like a suite, and essential must-haves.
What Exactly is a Master Bedroom?
A master bedroom is the biggest and most important bedroom in a home.
It’s usually meant for the person or people who own or are the primary occupants of the house. What makes it special is its size, comfort, and privacy.
A standard master bedroom typically ranges from 12 ft x 14 ft (168 sq ft) to 16 ft x 20 ft (320 sq ft). In luxury homes, it can exceed 400 sq ft and may include additional spaces, such as a private sitting area or a walk-in closet.
You’ll mostly find master bedrooms in duplexes, bungalows, detached houses, or modern apartments. Even smaller flats might label the largest bedroom as the “master,” especially if it has its own toilet.
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What’s Inside a Master Bedroom?
The average master bedroom will stand out by having:
- An en-suite bathroom (toilet and bath exclusive to the room)
- A large bed (usually queen or king size)
- Walk-in or built-in wardrobes
- Sometimes a TV, desk, dressing mirror, or reading chair
- Some also have balconies or big windows for fresh air and a good view.
In duplexes, the master bedroom is typically situated upstairs, away from the noise of the living room or kitchen.
Origin of the Term “Master Bedroom”
No one can say precisely when the term “master bedroom” first came into use, but many believe it gained popularity in the 1920s, thanks to the Sears catalog.
Back then, Sears was selling house plans, and in one of their ads for a Dutch Colonial home, they used the term to describe the biggest bedroom, usually the one with its own bathroom, meant for the head of the family.
At the time, homes were marketed with traditional family roles in mind. So, the “master” of the house, often the man who earned the income, was seen as the one this room was built for. It was a way to make the space feel more exclusive and luxurious.
Since then, the name has stuck, and even today, people still use “master bedroom” to refer to the main bedroom in a home, usually the largest and most private one.
Some people have also wondered, “Did the term master bedroom come from slavery?” The answer is no.
Who Should Be in a Master Bedroom?
The master bedroom is usually meant for the person who owns or rents the home. It’s the biggest room, often with its own bathroom, so it naturally goes to whoever needs the most comfort and privacy.
In most families, it’s the parents or married couple who stay in the master bedroom. If it’s a shared apartment, it might go to the person who pays the most rent or signed the lease.
In some homes, if an elderly parent lives with the family, they may be offered the master bedroom for ease and comfort.
Should Master Bedroom Be a Priority When House Hunting?
It depends. If you’re planning to share your room or value personal space, yes. It should be at the top of your list. But if you’re on a tight budget or living alone, it might not matter as much.
Other factors, such as location, security, ventilation, and overall layout, might take priority.
Also, when people rent service apartments, the master bedroom is usually assigned to the person who booked and paid.
If it’s a group, the couple, the eldest person, or the highest spender often uses the master bedroom. It’s a simple rule: comfort goes to who needs or deserves it most.
READ ALSO: Why You Should Reach Out To Us If You Are Looking For Property To Buy In Surulere
Comparing Master Bedroom With Other Room Types
Many people get confused when they try to differentiate a master bedroom from other room types.
Master Suite vs Master Bedroom
A master bedroom is typically the largest bedroom in a home. It often has an attached bathroom and more space than other rooms. A master suite, on the other hand, is a more luxurious version of a master bedroom. It includes:
- A large sleeping area
- A private en-suite bathroom
- A walk-in closet
- Sometimes a lounge, balcony, or even a small office
So, while all master suites are master bedrooms, not all master bedrooms are suites, a suite is like an upgrade with more features and space.
Primary Suite vs Master Bedroom
A primary suite is simply a modern term for the master bedroom or master suite. Many real estate agents now prefer “primary” because it sounds more neutral and inclusive.
Functionally, primary suite = master suite. It includes a spacious bedroom, a bathroom, and a closet, and may also include a sitting area. It’s just a name change in most cases, not a change in what the room has to offer.
Master Bedroom vs Regular Bedroom
A regular bedroom is smaller and simpler. Kids, guests, or roommates may use it. It might not have an attached bathroom and usually has less space for large furniture.
In contrast, a master bedroom:
- Has more space
- Often includes a private bathroom
- Offers more privacy and comfort
- It is located in the most private part of the house
Value of Properties with Master Bedrooms
A well-designed master bedroom can increase a property’s value by 10–20% depending on the area.
For instance, in upscale areas like Lekki, Ikoyi, or Magodo, agents often price 3-bedroom apartments higher if the master bedroom is large, has a bathtub or jacuzzi, a big closet, and all the good stuff.
It’s the same story for the mainland.
Agents know this. That’s why during inspections, they’ll hype it. Even if the rest of the house is average, they’ll focus on that room to justify the cost. It’s one of their favourite selling points.
You’ll mostly find proper master bedrooms in full flats (2 or 3-bedroom), duplexes, or terraces. One-room apartments or mini-flats hardly have them.
When inspecting, don’t just admire the space.
Verify that the master bedroom is indeed what it is called. Check for the key features we outlined earlier. (Remember that it depends on the luxuriousness of the house, too.)
