Small bedrooms present an obvious challenge. But aside from a lack of storage space, it can be difficult to style them appropriately as well. How can you make a small bedroom work? Thankfully, we have some small bedroom ideas and design tips that will help you maximize your space and make it look just as stylish.
How to make the most of a small bedroom
Storage is the main challenge when it comes to a small bedroom, but you’ll also want to make the space look bigger. Here are our tips.
Install built-in storage
A classic method of enhancing a small bedroom design is installing built-in storage. If you can perform a light remodel in your space, consider adding indented shelving or other built-ins. If remodeling isn’t an option — say, you live in a tiny apartment — go for furniture with built-ins like a bed frame with storage or a headboard with a shelf or organizer.
Closed storage will hide the clutter
While open storage is a go-to for many homeowners, it isn’t the ideal solution for those struggling to style tiny spaces. Let’s face it: Open shelving can easily become overcrowded and messy. This can greatly ruin the aesthetic of your space. Instead, we recommend investing in closed storage, like cabinets and dressers, to conceal the clutter and alleviate the visual weight in a design.
Simplify the color palette
Another effective tool for expanding the look of a small space is to simplify the color palette. Pick one to three main colors to decorate your space. Neutrals are a fantastic choice because they feel light, airy, and muted enough to appear subtle. Avoid adding too many colors, which can clutter the design.
Paint the ceiling
If you really want to make a small bedroom appear larger, paint the ceiling the same color as the walls. If your walls are taupe, paint the ceiling taupe as well. This creates visual continuity, which can “lift” the ceiling and make the room appear bigger.
How to layout a small bedroom
The layout of your small bedroom is vital for pulling off a stylish design. Try these suggestions.
Place the bed opposite the door
When designing a small bedroom, place the bed opposite the door. This is a great design tip for any bedroom, but it also helps create proper pathing for a small room. If you can, try to center the bed. Otherwise, put it up against the furthest wall or loft it.
Make windows the feature of the room
If you have decently sized windows in your room, be sure to feature them. Covering windows with furniture or dark curtains can feel natural, but we recommend avoiding doing so. Instead, add light, airy curtains to your design and keep the windows clear of clutter.
Try a daybed
Daybeds can be preferred over lofts as they allow ample room for sitting or stretching out. Since they naturally hug a wall due to their frame, this is a great choice for a tiny space. Daybeds will open up floor space, offer plenty of under-the-bed storage, and double as a sofa when you’re not sleeping.
Center a small rug
Invest in a rug that is a few feet shy of the size of the room and center it. This can make the room appear larger and cozier. Not only will this add color and pattern, but the edges will be defined, creating the illusion of a larger space.
Add a mirror
Mirrors are fantastic at expanding the visual appeal of a space. They are also useful for those who have to get dressed and ready in the bedroom if the bathroom is shared or too small. Add a mirror above the bed or a full-length piece leaning against the wall to refract light and open up the space.
Small bedroom ideas for couples
If you share a small bedroom with a partner, you may need extra space to maneuver and store your things. Here are our best tips for styling a small bedroom for couples.
Skip the nightstands
Couples might want to skip the nightstands to maximize foot room on either side of the bed. Instead, consider installing shelves beside the bed or using the headboard for nightstand storage. Nightstands can take up a lot of floor space, decreasing the room’s visual square footage.
Use a storage-friendly headboard
Instead of a classic headboard, choose a piece with a built-in shelf to store books, remotes, cup holders, chargers, and other trinkets. The space above the bed can often go unused. Instead, add shelving and transform it into a storage solution.
Remove the closet door
While it may seem strange at first, removing the closet door can actually open up the look of the room and create the effect of a walk-in wardrobe. Remove the closet door fully to create a built-in or walk-in look. Or, replace the door with a curtain so that the space doesn’t feel as closed off but remains separate from the sleeping space.
Small bedrooms lack appropriate storage space and challenge homeowners and renters to get crafty with their clutter. Hiding your clutter and lifting your decor will keep the floor open and will visually expand the room.
