Creative Ways To Decorate And Style A Large Rectangular Bedroom

Decorating a large rectangular bedroom can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can create a stylish and comfortable space. The bed is typically the focal point of the room, so it's important to place it strategically to maximise floor space and create a balanced layout. In a rectangular room, placing the bed against the longest wall can help achieve this, while avoiding placing it on the same wall as the door or closet is recommended to maintain a good flow. From here, you can arrange other furniture pieces, such as nightstands, dressers, and seating, ensuring you allow for enough space to move around.

Use mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of more space

Mirrors are a fantastic tool to create the illusion of more space in a large rectangular bedroom. Here are some tips to achieve this:

Placement

Place mirrors across from windows to maximise natural light and visually expand the room. Positioning a mirror to reflect nature outside of a window will bring the outdoors in and enhance the sense of space. Another option is to place a mirror near a light source, such as a lamp, to bounce light back into the room.

Size and Shape

When it comes to size, bigger is better. A single, large mirror will create a greater sense of space than several small mirrors. Opt for a large mirror with a small frame and a minimalist design. While rectangular or square mirrors are common, don't be afraid to try a round or oval mirror to add a unique element while still reflecting light effectively.

Multiple Mirrors

Using multiple mirrors in a room amplifies the reflection of light, creating a brighter and more dynamic space. Try placing mirrors on opposite walls or grouping mirrors of different sizes and shapes to enhance this effect.

Mirrored Furniture

Incorporate mirrored furniture such as dressers, side tables, or cabinets. The reflective surfaces will give the impression that the room extends beyond its physical boundaries, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to your décor.

Statement Piece

Use a large, decorative mirror as a focal point. A prominent mirror with an eye-catching frame, unique shape, or intricate design will draw attention and create a bold visual impact, making the room feel more open and spacious.

By strategically placing mirrors, you can visually expand your large rectangular bedroom, creating a bright and inviting space that feels more expansive.

Place the bed against the longest wall to maximise floor space

When decorating a large rectangular bedroom, one of the most important things to consider is the placement of the bed. As the bed is the most significant piece of furniture in the room, it should be placed against the longest wall to maximise the floor space. This strategic placement ensures a balanced layout and creates a sense of proportion in the room. Here are some benefits and considerations for this arrangement:

Firstly, placing the bed against the longest wall allows for more floor space, making the room feel larger and more spacious. This arrangement is especially important if you have a large bed, as it ensures that you have adequate walking space on either side of the bed. Ideally, you should aim for at least 24 inches of walking space on either side. Additionally, by freeing up floor space, you create room for other furniture arrangements, such as additional drawers or shelves, to increase storage options.

Another benefit of placing the bed against the longest wall is that it helps establish a focal point in the room. In a rectangular bedroom, the bed typically serves as the focal point, with other furniture pieces arranged around it. This creates a sense of balance and harmony in the room. It's important to avoid placing large pieces of furniture, such as dressers or wardrobes, too close to the bed to prevent a sense of visual conflict and maintain the room's flow.

When placing the bed against the longest wall, it's crucial to consider the dimensions of the room and the length of the shorter wall. In some cases, you may have limited space, and placing the bed against the shorter wall might be the only option. However, this arrangement should be carefully considered, as it may not leave enough space for nightstands or other desired furniture.

It's also essential to avoid placing the bed on the same wall as the door or closet. This placement can disrupt the room's flow and create an imbalance in the layout. By placing the bed against the longest wall, you ensure a more natural and balanced flow to the bedroom layout.

Finally, consider the impact of natural light in the room. Maximising floor space by placing the bed against the longest wall can also help you take advantage of natural light sources, making the room feel airy and spacious. Avoid bulky furniture and opt for minimalist pieces that complement the bed placement and enhance the sense of space.

Use rugs to define different areas within the room

Rugs are a great way to define different areas within a large rectangular bedroom. Here are some tips to achieve this:

Firstly, consider the size and placement of your rug. Ensure it fits nicely into the space and complements the overall style of the room. If your bed and nightstands are positioned on the rug, it should be large enough to accommodate them comfortably, with a few inches of space between the furniture and the rug's edge. Alternatively, you can place two runners along each side of the bed, ideally wider than the bedside tables. This will help to visually separate the sleeping area from the rest of the room.

If you have a seating area within the bedroom, you can use a rug to define this space. Place a rug under the seating arrangement, ensuring it is proportional to the furniture. This will create a clear boundary for this specific area.

Another option is to use rugs to create a sense of balance and symmetry in the room. Place matching or similar rugs on opposite sides of the room to distribute furniture and decor elements evenly. This will help achieve a harmonious layout and make the space feel more inviting.

Additionally, you can use rugs to add a pop of colour or pattern to the room. If your walls are in calming colours, opt for bright-coloured or patterned rugs to create a stylish contrast. This will not only define the different areas within the room but also make the space more interesting and vibrant.

Remember to keep the room clutter-free and ensure there is enough space for movement, especially between furniture groupings. By using rugs effectively, you can easily transform your large rectangular bedroom into a well-defined and stylish space.

Create a focal point with the bed

When decorating a large rectangular bedroom, the bed usually serves as the focal point. Here are some tips to create a focal point with the bed:

Place the Bed Strategically

The bed should be placed against the longest wall to maximise floor space and create a balanced layout. Avoid placing the bed on the same wall as the door or closet to maintain a good flow in the room.

Choose a Statement Bed

A showstopping bed will undoubtedly become the focal point of the room. Statement headboards are a great way to achieve this, whether tall, ornate, colourful, patterned, or upholstered. A bed with a striking carved detail can also add instant personality to your room.

Play with Lighting

Adding some well-placed lighting can make a simple bed shine. A combination of a handsome deep wood finish with warm metallic trim and LED lighting can add a little sparkle to your room.

Add a Pop of Colour

A bold colour or pattern for your bedding can make a big statement. This is a cost-effective way to create a focal point, as you can easily change the colours with the seasons or your mood.

Hang Some Art

Hanging art or decorative items above the bed helps to define the bed wall as the focal point. Ensure any artwork is around two-thirds the width of the bed and aligned with the centre of the headboard. If your headboard is tall or your bed is under a window, consider hanging tall, narrow mirrors or dramatic sconces on either side of the bed.

Use natural light to make the room feel more spacious

How to Decorate a Large Rectangular Bedroom: Use Natural Light to Make the Room Feel More Spacious

When decorating a large rectangular bedroom, maximising the use of natural light can make the space feel airy, open, and more spacious. Here are some tips to achieve this:

Avoid Heavy Draperies

Opt for light and translucent window treatments such as sheer or light-coloured curtains. Avoid bulky and opaque draperies that block natural light from entering the room. Sheer curtains will allow sunlight to filter through, brightening up the space and making it feel larger.

Enhance Window Areas

Ensure that your window treatments do not obstruct any natural light. Consider using long, flowing curtains that complement the room's shape and add elegance and height. A window running along the length of the room, with the entire wall covered in curtains, can create an illusion of broader space.

Place Bed Strategically

The bed should ideally be placed against the longest wall to maximise floor space and create a balanced layout. However, if natural light enters the room through a window on the shorter wall, consider placing the bed under the window. This can help block an unpleasant view while still allowing natural light to enter the room and aid in waking up naturally with the morning light.

Use Mirrors

Mirrors can be used to reflect light and create the illusion of more space. Position mirrors across from windows to maximise natural light and visually expand the room. A reflective mirror on a cupboard door or a wall-mounted mirror can add depth and make the room feel more spacious.

Choose Light Colours

Lighter colours on walls and floors can make a bedroom appear larger. Opt for light and neutral shades such as cream, beige, or light grey. These colours will reflect natural light and create a bright and airy atmosphere, making the room feel more spacious.

Keep the Room Tidy

A tidy and organised room feels more spacious. Regularly declutter and use smart storage solutions to keep the space neat and functional. A cluttered room can feel cramped and disorganised, while a tidy room allows natural light to bounce off surfaces, creating a brighter and more open environment.

Frequently asked questions