Bedroom Decorating Ideas: Tips And Tricks

Decorating a bedroom can be a challenging task, but it's also an opportunity to create a relaxing and functional space that reflects your personality and style. Whether you're working with a small or large bedroom, there are several tips you can follow to achieve your dream space. Firstly, decide on the overall style and colour scheme you want to go for. This will guide your choices for furniture, décor, and accessories. Choose a style that speaks to you, whether it's rustic, modern, coastal, or a mix of styles to make it unique to your taste. Consider the mood you want to create and the amount of sunlight your bedroom receives when selecting a colour scheme.

Next, select the right-sized bed and mattress for your space, ensuring there's enough floor space to move around and include additional furniture. Opt for versatile and multifunctional pieces that can maximise storage and save space, such as ottomans, hanging chairs, and built-in shelving. Add personality to your bedroom with artwork, gallery walls, or a large-scale mural. Layer your lighting with bedside lamps, wall sconces, and dimmable switches to create a serene and adjustable ambiance.

Incorporate textures and organic elements like rattan and driftwood for a natural touch, and don't forget to bring your space to life with plants, which can add a chic architectural feel while improving air quality and reducing stress. Finally, embrace organised living with intuitive storage solutions to ensure your bedroom remains a clutter-free sanctuary that promotes relaxation and a good night's sleep.

Choosing a colour scheme

First, consider the mood you want to create and the style you are going for. Do you want your space to feel bright and cheerful, cosy and muted, or dramatic?

Next, think about the orientation of your bedroom. How much natural light does it get, and how will your chosen colours look under both natural daylight and lamplight? If your bedroom is small, you might want to opt for lighter colours to make the space feel larger. Conversely, darker colours can make a space feel cocooning and intimate. White, for example, will make a small space feel larger and brighter, whereas darker colours like black or navy can make a room feel smaller but also more relaxing and elegant.

If you're feeling adventurous, you could try an accent wall. This adds an extra element of pattern, colour, and texture to your space. Alternatively, you could paint the ceiling or use wallpaper to create a statement.

When it comes to choosing specific colours, greens and blues are always a good choice for bedrooms as they give a room a serene and calming vibe. Opt for a light sage green and pair it with white and wood tones for a soft colour scheme, or go for a bold blue and mix it with pops of vivid colours for a more vibrant feel. You could also try earthy tones like beige, cream, and brown to create a cosy atmosphere.

Lastly, don't forget to have fun and get creative! There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to choosing a colour scheme for your bedroom. Trust your instincts and go with what feels right for you.

Selecting a bed

The bed is the dominant feature of any bedroom, acting as the focal point of the room. When selecting a bed, there are several factors to consider.

Firstly, the size of the bed is crucial. You need to take into account the size of your bedroom and choose a bed that allows for a comfortable amount of floor space. A larger mattress is ideal if you have the room, but ensure it doesn't hinder your ability to fit other furniture. If space is limited, consider a low bed frame to create the illusion of higher ceilings and more space. You may also opt for a daybed with a trundle or a bed with built-in storage to maximise your space.

The style of the bed is also an important consideration. An upholstered headboard is a great way to add colour and texture, especially in smaller spaces. Plush velvets in rich, earthy tones against a neutral backdrop create a luxurious feel while keeping the room light and airy. You can also add contemporary piping in a contrasting colour to the edge of your headboard for a unique twist.

If you're looking for a statement piece, consider a canopy bed frame. Leaving the canopy bare will add elegance without making the room feel cluttered. Alternatively, you can add decorative drapes for a vintage, cozy vibe.

When selecting a bed, it's also worth thinking about the overall style of your bedroom. Do you want the bed to be the focal point, or will you have other statement pieces? This will help you determine the colour, material, and design of the bed to ensure it complements the rest of the space.

Lastly, don't forget the importance of comfort and quality. Investing in a good mattress and bedding will ensure you get a restful night's sleep, making your bedroom the tranquil oasis it should be.

Adding storage

Utilise Wall Space

Built-in storage solutions are a great way to maximise space in your bedroom. You can create shallow niches on either side of the bed for essentials, or install floor-to-ceiling wardrobe units against the wall and add moulding to emulate a built-in look. If you're looking for a more permanent solution, consider custom-built, floor-to-ceiling storage units that stretch across an entire wall. Alternatively, you can opt for freestanding wardrobes that fit the space as fully as possible.

Multi-Purpose Furniture

To save space, opt for multi-purpose furniture with built-in storage. For example, you can use a desk as a bedside table, or a stool that can be tucked under the desk when not in use. A bedside table with drawers or an open shelf can provide additional storage space. You can also mount floating shelves with a cup holder next to your bed to hold essentials and display decorative items.

Under-Bed Storage

The space under your bed is a great storage opportunity. You can raise your bed with risers or opt for a bed frame with built-in drawers. Alternatively, you can DIY your own under-bed storage solution or use storage containers that slide under the bed frame.

Creative Solutions

Think outside the box and utilise unexpected spaces for storage. For example, you can use the back of a closet door for wardrobe planning, or install shelves along the perimeter of your bedroom walls to add dozens of square feet of storage space. If you have a radiator, you can DIY a shelf over it for additional storage.

Maximise Vertical Space

Make the most of your bedroom's vertical space by installing floating shelves or a shelving unit. You can also add a bookshelf near the ceiling to store books and cut down on visual clutter.

Storage Headboard

A headboard with built-in storage can help you maximise space in a tiny bedroom. You can opt for a headboard with adjustable shelves or one with a storage compartment behind a pull-down woven front.

Customise Your Closet

If you have a small closet, there are several ways to maximise storage. You can add extra clothing rods, Command hooks, and over-the-door hangers. Utilise the back of the closet door by installing hooks or a pegboard shoe rack for your shoes and accessories.

Seating with Storage

An upholstered bench or a storage ottoman at the end of your bed provides a handy seating area and additional hidden storage for blankets, pillows, or out-of-season clothing.

Display Storage

Display your favourite items, accessories, or books on open shelves or a bookcase. You can also use a metal screen in a simple frame to hang earrings and necklaces.

Nooks and Corners

Transform unused nooks and corners into functional spaces. For example, you can add a recessed shelf and electrical outlets to create a cosy reading nook or a workspace.

Organise Your Drawers

Don't forget to organise the items inside your drawers and nightstands. Use drawer dividers, pretty dishes, or trays to sort and organise your belongings.

By incorporating some of these storage ideas, you can create a calm and organised bedroom while maximising your space.

Lighting

Types of Lighting

When choosing lighting for your bedroom, consider how you use the space. You'll likely want a bedside lamp for reading, an overhead light for general illumination, and perhaps a few lamps placed around the room to create a cosy glow.

You can also add floor lamps and table lamps for focused task lighting, such as reading or writing. These can be placed next to lounge chairs, desks, or side tables, providing specific illumination for these areas.

Pendant lights are another option for bedside lighting, offering an eclectic and modern look. If you have the space, consider a hanging pendant light or chandelier for a dramatic effect.

For a more subtle approach, opt for wall-mounted lights or sconces. These can be placed above bedside tables or a headboard to provide texture and complement the room's overall design.

Dimmers and Bulbs

To create a soft and relaxing atmosphere, it's recommended to use warm bulbs and lampshades that diffuse the light. Dimmable switches are also a great addition to the bedroom, allowing you to adjust the lighting according to your needs and preferences.

Design and Placement

When choosing bedroom lighting, you can opt for a statement piece that becomes a focal point of the room, or go for a more subtle approach with background lighting.

Consider the height and placement of your bedside tables when choosing lamps. The ideal height for a bedside table is approximately the same as the bed, and it should be placed no more than 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) from the bed for convenience.

The ideal height for a bedside lamp is between 25-29 inches (63-74 cm), and it should have a dual bulb to allow for light adjustment. Lamps with soft shapes, such as gourd or urn styles, can further enhance the relaxing atmosphere.

Colour and Material

The colour and material of your light fixtures can also impact the overall aesthetic of your bedroom. For a bold statement, consider a gold or black-and-white option, especially if your bedroom has a relatively neutral colour scheme.

If you're looking for a soft and calming effect, an opal-white shade can fill the room with a gentle glow. For a touch of glamour, a chandelier, whether fancy or simple, can imbue the room with sophistication and romance.

Energy Efficiency

Lastly, when choosing light bulbs, consider energy-saving options such as LED lights, which can help reduce energy consumption without compromising on style or functionality.

Wall decor

Boho or Rustic Style

If you're going for a natural, rustic, or boho look, try these ideas:

• Woven baskets: Instead of traditional framed photos, try hanging woven baskets above the bed to add texture and visual interest.
• Macrame: Hang a macrame wall hanging to add a breezy boho style. You could also use macrame as a creative headboard.
• Wood: The warmth of wood tones suits a rustic style. Try a vintage wooden shutter with vases to display greenery, or a wooden bead garland.
• Baskets and hats: Hang a collection of straw hats or woven baskets on the wall for a rustic, three-dimensional effect.
• Natural elements: Incorporate nature with a vase of dried pampas grass or eucalyptus.

Modern or Minimalist Style

For a modern or minimalist bedroom, consider these options:

• Abstract art: Hang a large, bold, abstract piece on a blank wall. You could also try a long, thin abstract piece above the bed.
• Geometric shapes: Hang geometric shapes, such as wooden wall art or 3D wall panels.
• Neon signs: Personalize your space with a neon sign of a favorite phrase.
• Floating shelves: Install floating shelves to display decorative objects.
• Gallery wall: Create a gallery wall with a mix of framed art, photography, and objects.

Romantic Style

To create a romantic space, try these wall decor ideas:

• Framed quotes: Choose a framed quote that reflects your relationship and hang it above the bed.
• Gallery wall: Create a gallery wall of photos of your favorite memories together.
• Couple-themed wall art: Look for pieces that represent couples, such as a couple's name sign or a monogram decal.

Other Styles

• Mirrors: Mirrors reflect light and make a room appear larger. Choose one that complements your color scheme.
• Wallpaper: Add an accent wall or wallpaper the ceiling for a bold look. You can also frame wallpaper panels and hang them like art.
• Art: Hang paintings, drawings, or sketches that reflect your personality and aesthetic.
• Textiles: Hang a favorite tapestry, quilt, or rug on the wall.
• Lighting: Install a decorative pendant light or sconce to illuminate the room and create a focal point.

Frequently asked questions