If you’re living in a small apartment or house, chances are your bedroom is also on the smaller side.
But don’t let the size of your space limit your decorating options.
With a little creativity and some smart design choices, you can transform your small bedroom into a cozy and stylish retreat.
Tips for Creating the Perfect Small Bedroom
- Wall Mounted Bedside Table: A true space saver, it can hold your night essentials without utilizing floor space in a small bedroom environment.
- Under Bed Storage Boxes: Ideal for storing seasonal clothes, bed linens, or items you don’t need on a daily basis, assisting in maintaining a clean and spacious room.
- Floating Shelves: These add extra storage for displaying books, frames or art, and make use of vertical space, freeing up a cluttered room.
- Loft Bed: This versatile bed solution incorporates a workstation or living area underneath, providing maximum use of small room dimensions.
- Over-the-Door Storage Rack: A convenient way to store shoes, accessories, and other items, taking advantage of unused behind-the-door space.
- Wall Scone Lighting: Wall-mounted lighting fixtures save nightstand space, providing needed lighting without consuming valuable surface area.
- Space Saving Hangers: These multi-layered hangers offer an efficient way to store more clothes in the closet without cramping the small bedroom.
- Foldable Ottoman Storage Bench: It provides extra seating and storage, and can easily be folded away when not in use.
- Decorative Mirrors: Mirrors can make a small bedroom appear larger with their reflective surfaces, they also add light and depth to the room.
- Under-Desk Drawers: These storage solutions can be attached under a small desk or workstation, providing additional space to store office or school supplies.
Add a houseplant
Adding a houseplant to your small bedroom can instantly breathe life and vibrancy into the space.
Not only do plants purify the air and promote a sense of tranquility, but they also add a touch of natural beauty to your surroundings.
Choose a low-maintenance variety that thrives in indirect sunlight, such as a snake plant or a pothos.
Place it on a windowsill, a dresser, or even hang it from the ceiling to maximize floor space.
The pop of green will infuse your cozy sanctuary with a refreshing, organic element, creating a serene and inviting ambiance that fosters relaxation and rejuvenation.
Add a loft space
Maximizing vertical space is key in a compact bedroom, and adding a loft can be a ingenious solution.
By constructing a raised platform or mezzanine, you can create an elevated sleeping area that feels both cozy and efficient.
Beneath the loft, you can carve out a functional living space, such as a built-in desk, dresser, or seating area.
Opt for a loft with slatted or translucent panels to maintain an airy, open feel, and consider incorporating built-in shelving or storage cubbies into the design.
Not only does a loft make clever use of every inch, but it also lends an undeniably cool, architectural vibe to your small sanctuary.
Add a mirror
Mirrors are an invaluable tool for visually expanding a small bedroom and creating the illusion of grandeur.
Strategically placing a large mirror on a wall opposing a window will reflect the natural light, brightening the space and making it feel remarkably airy and open.
Alternatively, you could position a floor-length mirror adjacent to your bed, instantly doubling the perceived dimensions of the room.
For an ultra-chic look, consider flanking your bed with a pair of identical vertically hung mirrors, which will enhance the sense of symmetry and balance.
Regardless of their placement, mirrors possess the captivating ability to bounce light around the room, delivering a heightened sense of spaciousness that transcends the physical boundaries.
Add a patterned headboard
A patterned headboard can infuse your small bedroom with big personality and visual interest.
Rather than blending into the background, opt for a bold, eye-catching design that becomes the statement piece of the room.
A geometric print in contrasting hues creates a focal point that draws the eye upward, lending an unexpected sense of dimension.
Alternatively, you could choose a headboard upholstered in an intricate floral or paisley fabric for a touch of vintage charm.
If going the DIY route, get creative with wallpaper panels or eclectic painted patterns for a truly one-of-a-kind look.
The right headboard not only anchors the bed as the centerpiece but also introduces texture, color, and vibrancy to elevate your compact sleeping quarters.
Bring in pops of color
Injecting pops of vibrant color is an effective way to energize and enliven a small bedroom space.
While a neutral palette may seem like the safe choice, strategically incorporating bursts of bold hues can actually make the room feel more spacious and inviting.
Consider painting an accent wall in a saturated jewel tone like emerald or sapphire to create a stunning focal point.
Alternatively, liven up the space with brightly colored bedding, curtains, or a patterned area rug underfoot.
Even small decorative accents like throw pillows, artwork, or a vase of fresh flowers can introduce playful splashes of color.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and let your personality shine through – the right pops of color will add depth, visual interest, and a cheerful energy to your cozy sleeping quarters.Copy
Bring on the throw pillows
Throw pillows are the perfect accessory for infusing warmth, texture, and a touch of playfulness into your small bedroom.
Don’t be afraid to pile them on in a kaleidoscope of colors, patterns, and fabrics for an inviting, layered look.
Plush velvets and faux furs instantly amplify the cozy factor, while globally-inspired prints or embroidered designs lend an eclectic, bohemian vibe.
Arrange them artfully across your bed or window seat, allowing for a delightful mix of sizes and shapes.
Not only do throw pillows provide soothing back support for reading or lounging, but they also enable you to switch up the entire aesthetic of your sleeping nook with just a few simple swaps.
Let your pillow collection become a rotating canvas for self-expression in your intimate refuge.
Built-In Storage
Incorporating built-in storage solutions is a game-changer for maximizing every inch of a small bedroom.
Instead of relying on bulky freestanding furniture that visually overwhelms the space, opt for seamlessly integrated cabinetry and shelving units that blend right into the architecture.
Under-bed drawers offer a clever way to stash away off-season clothing or extra linens, while floor-to-ceiling wardrobes provide ample hanging space without protruding into the room.
Recessed nooks surrounding the bed frame create perfect display shelves for books, photos, and mementos.
You can even transform awkward slanted ceilings or dormers into useful cubby spaces.
With a little ingenuity, built-in storage makes it possible to keep your bedroom clutter-free and streamlined while providing tucked-away nooks for all your belongings.
Center natural light
Harnessing natural light should be a top priority when designing a small bedroom space.
Position your bed strategically near a window to bathe the area in brilliant sunshine throughout the day.
Not only does this create a refreshing, airy atmosphere, but it also helps the room feel more open and spacious.
Opt for sheer, billowy curtains that filter in gentle rays while still providing privacy. You can further amplify the natural illumination by installing a large mirror opposite the window to reflect and bounce the light deeper into the room.
Consider, too, incorporating a stylish sunburst or starburst mirror as a focal point above the bed – its rays will mimic the sun’s warmth and radiance.
With the right placement and accents, natural light elevates even the most compact of bedrooms into an inviting, light-filled oasis.
Choose a sculptural headboard
A sculptural headboard can be the perfect statement piece to elevate a small bedroom from ordinary to extraordinary.
Rather than opting for a standard upholstered or wooden design, seek out a headboard with an eye-catching, architectural form that commands attention.
A dramatic curved rattan design adds an organic, bohemian flair, while a sleek metallic option with geometric cutouts exudes a decidedly modern vibe.
For a softer look, a tufted headboard with ornate details like nailhead trim or carved wood can provide a romantic, vintage-inspired focal point.
Beyond just being visually striking, a three-dimensional, sculptural headboard also helps create the illusion of added depth and space in a compact room.
Let this artful accent become the centerpiece that defines the style and draws the eye effortlessly inward.
Choose your bedspread wisely
Choosing the right bedspread can make or break the ambiance of a small bedroom.
Opt for lighter hues and patterns that create an airy, open feel – busy prints or dark, heavy fabrics will only overwhelm the space.
A crisp white duvet with subtle embroidered detailing offers a fresh, airy aesthetic that promotes tranquility.
Alternatively, a pale pastel quilt in a soothing shade like powder blue or mint green can infuse the room with a soft, calming vibe.
For a touch of texture, consider a cozy cable-knit or waffle-weave spread in an oatmeal or cream tone.
Whichever route you choose, make sure the bedding appears plush and inviting while allowing the eyes to travel seamlessly across the space.
With the right lightweight, carefully curated bedspread, even the smallest of bedrooms can feel like an open, welcoming oasis.
Display what needs to be stored
Rather than tucking everything away in closed cabinets, consider displaying decorative items and essentials that need to be stored in your small bedroom.
Open shelving gives you the opportunity to artfully arrange books, candles, potted plants, and treasured keepsakes in an aesthetically pleasing way.
Woven baskets or vintage trunks can house extra linens or out-of-season clothing while doubling as rustic design accents.
A stylish étagère or leaning ladder shelf creates vertical storage for folded items while taking up a small footprint.
If you have empty wall space, install floating shelves or a hanging cabinet to stow away items in plain sight.
By putting your storage on display, you not only maximize your square footage but also inject personality and visual interest into your cozy sleeping nook.
Get a bed with built-in storage
Investing in a bed with built-in storage can be a brilliant small-space solution for your compact bedroom.
Platform beds with roomy drawers underneath provide ample space to stow away extra bedding, off-season clothing, and other bulky items.
This eliminates the need for cumbersome dressers that consume precious square footage.
For even more storage potential, opt for a captain’s bed with drawers integrated into the base as well as a bookcase-style headboard with cubbies and shelves.
Upholstered storage ottomans placed at the foot of the bed create a cozy spot to rest your feet while concealing additional stow-away space inside.
With all your belongings neatly tucked into the bed itself, you’ll free up the surrounding areas for a clean, clutter-free sleeping environment that feels delightfully open and airy.
Go for a floating side table
Incorporating a floating side table is an ingenious way to introduce functional storage without overwhelming a small bedroom’s floor space.
These sleek, wall-mounted designs appear to hover weightlessly beside the bed, creating an airy, uncluttered look.
Choose a streamlined style with a slim profile and open compartments to prevent a bulky, visually heavy appearance.
The suspended design allows the eye to flow effortlessly from the bed to the table and beyond, enhancing the sense of openness.
Floating side tables also offer unexpected opportunities for display – nestle a small potted plant, an artful sculpture, or a minimalist task lamp atop the surface.
With their compact footprint and minimalist aesthetic, these side tables perfectly complement a tiny sleeping nook while providing a convenient spot to stash books, glasses, and bedside essentials within easy reach.
Go for an accent wall
An accent wall can instantly elevate the look and feel of a small bedroom while making a bold visual statement.
Rather than painting all four walls the same hue, designate one as a striking focal point with a rich, saturated color or eye-catching wallpaper.
A deep emerald green or inky blue creates a luxurious, moody vibe perfect for cultivating a cozy, cocoon-like ambiance.
For a more whimsical approach, opt for an oversized floral print or geometric pattern in contrasting tones.
You could also get creative with textured materials like exposed brick, wood planking, or even painted shiplap for a rustic or industrial-chic look.
Wherever your style leans, an accent wall enables you to showcase your aesthetic while cleverly drawing the eye inward to make the room feel larger and more dynamic than its modest square footage suggests.
Go Monochromatic
Embracing a monochromatic color scheme can be a brilliant way to create a sense of seamless flow and spaciousness in a small bedroom.
By layering various shades and tints of the same hue throughout the space, you eliminate harsh visual breaks that can make a compact room feel choppy or closed-in.
Opt for a soft, pale palette like whisper-weight grays or dusky blush tones, which promote an airy, ethereal ambiance.
Incorporate the color across textiles like bedding, curtains, and area rugs, as well as on walls and furnishings.
The lack of contrasting colors allows the eye to effortlessly transition from one element to the next, visually expanding the boundaries.
Complete the tonal look with matte black accents for a modern, grounding touch.
With this seamless, monochromatic approach, even the tiniest of sleeping quarters feels like an open, enveloping sanctuary.CopyRetry
Hang Wall Art
Strategically hung wall art can work wonders in a small bedroom by adding depth, visual interest, and a sense of spaciousness.
Rather than overcrowding with numerous small pieces, opt for one or two larger-scale works that command attention and create an impactful focal point.
A dramatic abstract canvas in rich, jewel-toned hues makes a bold statement while helping the walls recede.
Alternatively, a series of framed prints or photographs arranged in a linear gallery exudes a curated, polished vibe.
For a three-dimensional touch, hang an ornately carved wooden piece or a macramé wall-hanging that casts intriguing shadows.
The key is letting the art breathe with ample negative space around it – this prevents the room from feeling cluttered or closed-in.
With thoughtfully selected pieces, wall art can elevate and personalize even the most compact of sleeping quarters.
Keep it doorless
Forgoing a traditional door in favor of an open entryway can create an airy, spacious feel in a small bedroom.
By eliminating the swinging door, you instantly expand the line of sight and allow the room to flow seamlessly into adjacent spaces.
Consider framing the doorway with lush curtains that can be swept aside, or install a stylish room divider like an ornate screen or beaded partition for privacy when needed.
An open archway trimmed with decorative molding provides an elegant architectural detail while maintaining an unobstructed pathway.
For an ultra-modern look, you could even remove the entire door frame for a minimalist, streamlined entrance.
This doorless approach not only enhances functional square footage but also ushers in an abundance of natural light for an inviting ambiance in your compact sleeping retreat.
Layer Bedding
Layering luxurious bedding is an easy way to add warmth, texture and a touch of indulgence to even the smallest of bedrooms.
Start with a crisp white base – plush cotton sheets with a high thread count create an instantly cozy foundation.
Next, pile on a soft quilt or coverlet in a soothing neutral tone like oatmeal or slate gray.
For an extra layer of visual interest, drape a faux fur or knitted throw across the end of the bed.
Top it all off with an assortment of pillows in complementing hues and patterns, like intricate embroidered designs or sumptuous velvets.
Not only do these plush layers beckon for lazy mornings cozied up, but the variety of fabrics and finishes creates attractive dimension within the compact space.
With a bit of thoughtful layering, you can transform your petite sleeping nook into an absolute haven.
Make a statement with lighting
Thoughtful lighting can truly elevate the look and ambiance of a small bedroom.
Instead of relying solely on harsh overhead fixtures, get creative with an assortment of accent lamps to sculpt a warm, layered glow.
Mount swing-arm sconces on either side of the bed to provide adjustable task lighting perfect for nighttime reading. Place a stylish arc lamp in an empty corner to cast a soft, diffused pool of illumination.
For a touch of whimsy, string fairy lights along the ceiling or hang a macramé pendant light as an unexpected focal point.
Even swapping out basic bulbs for vintage-inspired filament options instantly imbues a cozy, romantic vibe.
With a curated blend of decorative and functional lighting elements, you can not only highlight the room’s most attractive features but also establish an inviting, intimate atmosphere within your compact sanctuary.
Opt for a bookcase headboard
A bookcase headboard is an ingenious storage solution that packs both style and functionality into a small bedroom space.
By incorporating shelving right into the headboard design, you create a chic, built-in display for books, photographs, plants, and decorative accents.
Not only does this vertical storage maximize square footage, but it also serves as an eye-catching focal point that anchors the entire room.
Choose an option with open cubbies for an airy, modern aesthetic, or opt for doors if you prefer a more streamlined look.
Whether stained wood or painted a vibrant hue, a bookcase headboard adds warmth and character while keeping your bedside essentials neatly organized and within easy reach.
This multitasking piece blends form and function beautifully in a compact sleeping quarters.
Opt for a daybed
In a small bedroom, where every square foot counts, a daybed can be your saving grace.
This versatile piece of furniture seamlessly transforms from a comfy couch by day to a cozy sleeping spot by night.
Opting for a daybed with built-in drawers provides valuable storage for blankets, pillows, or even clothes, maximizing your functionality in a smaller space.
Opt for Moody Colors
Don’t be afraid to embrace bold hues in your small bedroom!
Rich jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, or even a deep plum can create a surprisingly cozy and intimate atmosphere.
While dark colors might seem counterintuitive in a compact space, they can actually make the walls recede visually, creating a sense of spaciousness.
Plus, moody colors provide a perfect backdrop to layer in lighter textures and pops of metallic accents, making your small bedroom feel sophisticated and utterly unique.
Provide Symmetry
In a small bedroom, creating a sense of balance and order is key. Symmetry can be your secret weapon!
Try flanking the bed with identical nightstands and lamps, or position a dresser directly opposite the bed.
This mirrored arrangement creates a calming visual equilibrium, tricking the eye into perceiving more space.
For an extra space-saving touch, consider installing floating shelves or cabinets on either side of the bed to maintain symmetry while maximizing storage.
Simplify your color palette
Keeping your color palette streamlined is a brilliant strategy for making a small bedroom feel airy and expansive.
Opt for a light, neutral base color for your walls, like white, beige, or a pale greige.
This creates a blank canvas that reflects natural light and prevents the space from feeling visually crowded.
Then, add pops of color through your bedding, throw pillows, or artwork.
This allows you to introduce personality without overwhelming the room, keeping your small bedroom feeling light, bright, and inviting.
Skip the nightstand and mount a sconce
In a tiny bedroom, every inch of floor space is precious. Ditch the bulky nightstand and opt for a wall-mounted sconce instead.
This space-saving solution provides task lighting for reading or browsing your phone in bed without sacrificing precious square footage.
Sc sconces come in a wide range of styles, from modern and minimalist to warm and traditional, allowing you to add a touch of personality while keeping your small bedroom feeling uncluttered and airy.
Spice up the ceiling
Don’t let the “fifth wall” go to waste! In a small bedroom, where maximizing visual impact is key, a spruced-up ceiling can be a surprising game-changer.
Consider a bold paint color that complements your existing palette, creating a sense of intimacy and drawing the eye upwards.
For a touch of whimsy, stencil a pattern or add a statement wallpaper – think constellations for a starry night effect or geometric shapes for a modern vibe.
If you’re feeling crafty, exposed beams can add architectural interest and warmth, while twinkling fairy lights strung across the ceiling can create a magical, ethereal ambiance.
Statement Beds
In a small bedroom, where every piece of furniture needs to work double-duty, your bed can be both a sleep sanctuary and a style statement.
Opt for a platform bed with a built-in headboard to maximize storage and eliminate the need for a bulky dresser.
Choose a bold color or headboard design to make your bed the focal point of the room, You can also go the luxurious route with a tufted or upholstered headboard that adds a touch of glamour and provides a comfy spot to sit up and read.
No matter your style, a statement bed can transform your small bedroom into a chic and inviting retreat.
Suspend Lighting
Pendant lights hung strategically above the nightstand or bedside table provide targeted task lighting for reading or working in bed without sacrificing precious surface area.
Cluster pendants can add a touch of whimsy and create a central focal point, while single pendants hung on either side of the bed offer a symmetrical and balanced look.
For a touch of modern flair, consider track lighting with adjustable spotlights to illuminate different areas of the room as needed.
With a variety of styles and lengths to choose from, suspended lighting can be a functional and fashionable way to brighten up your small bedroom.
Use a curtain to separate your space
Hanging a curtain on a ceiling track or tension rod allows you to easily section off your sleeping area at night for privacy and tranquility.
Opt for a sheer fabric to allow natural light to filter through, keeping the space feeling open and airy.
This division also lets you control the ambience in each zone.
String fairy lights along the curtain track for a magical touch in your sleep zone, while using a desk lamp to brighten your work area.
When not in use, simply slide the curtain open to create a unified space again.
Tips for Creating the Perfect Small Bedroom
- Wall Mounted Bedside Table: A true space saver, it can hold your night essentials without utilizing floor space in a small bedroom environment.
- Under Bed Storage Boxes: Ideal for storing seasonal clothes, bed linens, or items you don’t need on a daily basis, assisting in maintaining a clean and spacious room.
- Floating Shelves: These add extra storage for displaying books, frames or art, and make use of vertical space, freeing up a cluttered room.
- Loft Bed: This versatile bed solution incorporates a workstation or living area underneath, providing maximum use of small room dimensions.
- Over-the-Door Storage Rack: A convenient way to store shoes, accessories, and other items, taking advantage of unused behind-the-door space.
- Wall Scone Lighting: Wall-mounted lighting fixtures save nightstand space, providing needed lighting without consuming valuable surface area.
- Space Saving Hangers: These multi-layered hangers offer an efficient way to store more clothes in the closet without cramping the small bedroom.
- Foldable Ottoman Storage Bench: It provides extra seating and storage, and can easily be folded away when not in use.
- Decorative Mirrors: Mirrors can make a small bedroom appear larger with their reflective surfaces, they also add light and depth to the room.
- Under-Desk Drawers: These storage solutions can be attached under a small desk or workstation, providing additional space to store office or school supplies.
