Creative Wall Decor Ideas For Your Bedroom

There are countless ways to decorate a bedroom wall, and the options are only limited by your imagination and budget. Whether you're working with a tight budget or are willing to splurge, there are numerous ways to dress up your bedroom walls. From plush wall-to-wall upholstery to subtle headboard textures and attention-grabbing art, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Hang a large artwork

Hanging a large artwork is a great way to decorate a bedroom wall. Here are some tips to help you hang your artwork correctly and make a statement:

Choose the Right Height:

The ideal height to hang your artwork will depend on a few factors. A common guideline is to hang the centre of the artwork at eye level, which is typically around 57-60 inches from the floor. However, this may vary if you have high ceilings or if you are particularly tall. A good rule of thumb is to imagine the wall divided into four equal sections from bottom to top, and hang your artwork in the third quadrant, counting from the floor. This will ensure the artwork is at a comfortable viewing height and not too close to the ceiling.

Consider the Space Around the Artwork:

When hanging a large artwork, it's important to consider the negative space around it. The artwork should be hung with enough space around it to avoid looking cramped or disjointed. As a general rule, leave a gap of about 6-10 inches between the top of the artwork and any furniture below it. This will create a sense of balance and prevent the artwork from appearing too close to the furniture.

Take Furniture into Account:

If you're hanging the artwork above a piece of furniture, such as a bed, sofa, or dresser, adjust the height accordingly. Instead of following the eye-level rule, hang the artwork so that the bottom of the frame is 3-8 inches above the furniture. This will create a more cohesive look and prevent the artwork from appearing too high or floating above the furniture.

Use the Right Hardware:

Choose the appropriate hardware for hanging your large artwork, especially if it is heavy. Use sturdy hangers such as thin picture hangers or self-drilling zinc anchors for drywall. For extremely heavy pieces, it's best to drill the hanger into a stud, or use toggle bolts if a stud is not available.

Plan Before Drilling:

Before you start drilling holes in your wall, take the time to plan the placement of your artwork. Consider the size of the artwork in relation to the wall and the furniture below it. You can use painter's tape to mark the outline of the artwork on the wall, or have someone hold it up while you step back and assess the placement. Taking a photo of the artwork on the wall can also help you view it with fresh eyes and make any necessary adjustments.

Display collections

Displaying collections is a great way to decorate your bedroom walls. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Grouping Collections:

• Create a gallery wall of vintage prints, family photos, postcards, or artwork. Mix textures, colours, and patterns to make an inspirational statement.
• Display ceramics, china, or vintage teacups in a dresser or on open shelves. Use plate stands to showcase pieces and create depth by mixing in bowls and mugs. Opt for light-coloured cabinetry to make your collection stand out.
• Hang plates, baskets, or tiles on the wall for an alternative display. Choose items with similar colours but contrasting designs and space them evenly for an eye-catching look.
• Showcase smaller items like ceramic figures or vintage books on a mantelpiece or fireplace. Pair them with candles, vintage trinkets, or flowers to create a characterful display.

Spreading Out Collections:

• Spread out your collection throughout your home if you don't want a mass display in one area. For example, unique indoor plants can be displayed in different rooms, giving each room a touch of greenery and providing ideal light conditions for the plants.
• Display functional collections like books by sorting them by use or colour. For instance, keep art books near your art table and gardening books in your office.
• If you have a small collection, such as brass animals, display one item in each room. It can be a fun game for guests to try and spot them all!

Remember, when displaying collections, it's important to find a solution that works best for you and your space. Don't be afraid to mix and match different types of collections and displays to create a unique and personalised bedroom.

Decorate with antiques and vintage pieces

Vintage and antique pieces can add charm, character, and nostalgia to your bedroom. Here are some ideas for decorating your bedroom wall with these timeless treasures:

Vintage Lighting Fixtures

A vintage lighting fixture, such as a chandelier or a lamp on your nightstand, can create a warm and inviting ambiance in your bedroom. Look for unique pieces at antique stores, thrift shops, or online marketplaces, and consider installing a dimmer to control the lighting and create a romantic atmosphere.

Antique Mirrors

Vintage mirrors, especially those with ornate frames, can serve as beautiful focal points in your bedroom. They add a timeless charm and create the illusion of more space, making your room feel larger. Mix and match different styles, shapes, and sizes to create an interesting display, or opt for a vintage-inspired reproduction if you're on a budget.

Upcycled Furniture

Instead of buying new, consider rescuing and transforming old pieces. Upcycling antique furniture is an eco-friendly way to add personality and character to your bedroom. A simple way to upcycle is by changing the hardware and adding a fresh coat of paint to an old dresser or bedside table. Embrace the imperfections and unique character of flea market finds!

Vintage Quilts and Textiles

Adorn the end of your bed with a vintage quilt, and bring in vintage patterned textiles such as rugs, window curtains, and decorative pillows. These additions will create a functional and incredibly charming bedroom retreat.

Rustic Wooden Accents

Mix in wooden elements for a rustic, cottage-core feel. Incorporate distressed antique dressers, vintage wooden shutters, reclaimed wood side tables, or a wooden vintage headboard to add warmth and texture to your bedroom. Antique pull handles are also a rustic touch for any vintage piece of furniture with drawers.

Vintage Art and Gallery Walls

Curate a gallery wall with vintage pieces, including ornate mirrors and china, to evoke a quintessential antique look. Vintage art, such as landscape paintings, drawings, and oil portraits, adds personality and originality to your space. Hang a series of your favourite vintage images or botanical prints above your bed, or stagger your artwork for a whimsical touch.

These ideas will help you decorate your bedroom wall with antiques and vintage pieces, creating a space that showcases their timeless beauty and unique character.

Introduce panelling

Wall panelling is a great way to add character and charm to your bedroom. It can transform the space, adding warmth, depth and a unique design feature. There are many different styles of panelling to choose from, including grand period designs, tongue and groove, traditional shaker-style, Jacobean-style grid, or dado style.

If you're thinking of introducing panelling to your bedroom, here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Step 1: Planning and Measurement

Before you begin, it's important to plan and measure your wall accurately. Decide how high and wide you want your panelling to be and how many panels you want. Measure the full width and height of the wall and determine whether you want to panel the entire wall or just half of it. Remember to account for top and base panels, as well as vertical and horizontal panels. Sketch out your design to help you visualise and calculate how many panels you'll need.

Step 2: Cutting the Panels

Once you have your measurements, it's time to cut the panels. You can either cut the panels yourself or ask a professional to do it for you. If you're cutting them yourself, use a saw and mitre box to cut the panels at a 90-degree angle according to your measurements. Sand the ends until they are smooth.

Step 3: Sand and Smooth the Walls

Prepare your walls by sanding and smoothing them down to remove any lumps or bumps that may show through the panels. This step will ensure a neat and seamless finish.

Step 4: Apply the Panels

Start by adding the frame, first with the base panels and then the top. Use a laser level to ensure the panel is straight, and then apply a strong adhesive to the back. Press it firmly onto the wall and hold it in place until it's secure. Continue adding the vertical and horizontal panels, making sure to butt up the joins neatly for a seamless finish.

Step 5: Fill in the Gaps

Once the panels are applied, use decorators caulk to fill in any gaps, cracks or holes. Don't worry if your panels are a few millimetres short; simply fill in the gaps with Polyfilla and sand them down for a smooth finish.

Step 6: Prime and Paint

Prime your panels using a wood primer to create a foundation for your paint. This will give your paint job a professional finish and ensure better colour and application. Once the primer is dry, apply your chosen paint colour. You may need to coat the walls twice to completely cover the primer.

Design Ideas and Tips

• Colour Choices: Opt for scene-stealing shades like inky blue, green or blush pink for an Instagram-worthy look.
• Ceiling Panelling: Consider extending your wall panels to the ceiling for a unique and cosy atmosphere.
• Headboard Panelling: Add a touch of sophistication to your bedroom with a wall-panelled headboard, either blending it with the décor or creating a striking contrast.
• Feature Wall: Create a dramatic backdrop with a dark panelled feature wall, perfect for showcasing decorative elements in your bedroom.
• Wainscoting: Bring elegance to your bedroom with wainscoting, a classic style of panelling that covers the lower half of the walls.
• Chimney Breast Panelling: Transform a simple architectural feature into a focal point with striking slatted wall panels.
• Monochrome Wainscoting: Combine classic black and white panelling with black and white art prints for a chic and elegant look.
• Acoustic Panels: Install an acoustic panel in front of your dining table for a decorative and textured feature.

With these steps and design ideas, you're well on your way to introducing panelling to your bedroom walls and creating a stylish and unique space.

Decorate with a beautiful wallpaper

Wallpaper is a great way to decorate your bedroom walls and there are endless options to choose from. You can opt for a bold and colourful wallpaper to create a fun and energetic vibe, or go for a monotone design for a more serious and focused atmosphere.

If you're looking for a simple way to add some interest to your walls, consider a textured wallpaper such as grass cloth, plaster or cork, which can give a dynamic and layered effect. For a traditional or transitional space, layered patterns work well. If you want to make a small space feel bigger, an all-over floral or stripe pattern can help create a cosy and immersive feel.

Alternatively, you could hang wallpaper panels. These can be finished with wood trim to create a polished look. If you're renting, removable peel-and-stick wallpaper is a great option.

If you're feeling creative, you could even design your own wallpaper. For example, designer Leanne Ford nailed an old canvas to her wall and asked an artist friend to draw whatever they wanted on it.

So, whether you're looking for a bold statement or a subtle accent, using wallpaper is a great way to decorate your bedroom walls.

Frequently asked questions