Setting a romantic mood with your bedroom’s décor isn’t quite as difficult as it sounds. Creating intimacy is about finding the right mixture of elements to make you and your partner feel closer just by stepping over the bedroom threshold — elements such as lighting, color, decoration and furniture.

When designing a romantic décor, experiment with different ideas. Find a design that makes you feel both relaxed and sexy; if you have a significant other, incorporate their taste in the planning as well.

Color has a subtle, yet powerful effect on our emotions. The colors used to decorate your bedroom can have a strong influence on mood. Red, for instance, is a warm color that evokes feelings of passion and excitement; using it as an accent color, such as for a comforter or some pillows, can help light the flame of romance.

Lighting is a simple way to create mood. Bright lights create a sense of openness and happiness, even excitement. But if you want to set a romantic mood, candlelight or colored lighting is a better bet for creating a more intimate feel. Red or black light evokes a darker, sultrier mood, while green or blue lighting can cast a sickly pall on the room.

If you are decorating your bedroom to enhance intimacy, it’s important to emphasize beauty and elegance. Tacky, ugly accessories will detract from the mood you are trying to create. The direct approach is not always best: Rather than decorating with objects that inspire pure lust, find things that move you in a more subtle fashion, stirring your emotions. Avoid artwork depicting violent actions or bizarre scenes, as this can detract from the overall sensuality of the décor. If you choose to use erotic imagery, make it as tasteful and subtle as possible.

The real focal point of the bedroom, however, is not the décor: It’s the bed. You want your bed to be both comfortable and attractive, creating a setting that will inspire passion while allowing you and your partner to feel relaxed enough to drop your guard and be yourselves.

Sheets, pillows and blankets or comforters should be chosen with colors that make you feel sexy. Satin or silk bedding can enhance this feeling also. To create an even greater sense of intimacy get rid of your bed’s box spring, lower the mattress to the floor, and build a simple canopy above it, to create a private hideaway for two.