Small Space, Big Impact: Decorating Little Bedrooms

Decorating a small bedroom can be challenging, but with the right tips and tricks, you can make the space feel cozy, functional, and spacious. Here are some ideas to get you started:

- Choose a focal point, such as a bold headboard or a piece of artwork, to draw the eye and add dynamism to the room.

- Opt for streamlined and minimal furniture with unfussy designs and clean lines.

- Add visual height by getting things off the floor and utilizing vertical space. Consider a leaning ladder for blankets, hanging pendants instead of floor lamps, or wall shelves.

- Get creative with storage solutions like under-bed containers, hanging shelves, or wall-mounted units to maximize space.

- Re-imagine every corner and nook to serve multiple functions, such as a corner office or a vanity area.

- Choose multi-functional furniture that can be used in different ways, like a stool that can double as a side table or plant stand.

- Keep decor minimal to avoid a cluttered and cramped feeling.

- Select bedroom furniture that is proportionate to the space, avoiding oversized pieces that will overwhelm the room.

- Add texture with rugs, linens, throw pillows, wall art, baskets, and curtains to create a cozy atmosphere.

- Utilize lighting to make the space feel larger and more dynamic, combining overhead lighting with task lighting like table lamps.

Choose a focal point

When decorating a small bedroom, choosing a focal point is key to making the room feel more dynamic. A bold headboard or a piece of artwork can draw the eye and make the room more interesting.

In one example, a wood board attached to the wall serves as a focal point, while in another, a painted black half-wall makes a statement. If you're not keen on these options, you could also use artwork, a light fixture, or curtains as a focal point instead.

If you're working with a small space, it's important to be intentional about the items you choose for your bedroom. A focal point can help tie the room together and make it feel more spacious and inviting.

• Opt for a sculptural headboard: If you prefer neutral tones and simple fabrics, a sculptural headboard can add interest without sacrificing your colour scheme.
• Add a patterned headboard: If you want to bring pattern into your small bedroom, a striped or patterned headboard can be a great way to do so without overwhelming the space.
• Display what needs to be stored: Consider using open bookshelves or baskets on shelves to store your belongings. This way, your personal effects can double as decor and add visual interest without creating clutter.
• Choose a bold colour: Don't be afraid to go bold with colour in a small bedroom. Consider using saturated colours like charcoal grey, hunter green, or navy blue to create a cosy and intimate atmosphere.
• Make a statement with lighting: High ceilings? Go for a dramatic chandelier. Have some extra space on either side of the bed? Try an impactful floor lamp. No matter the size of your room, a sconce or a sculptural table lamp can make a great statement.

Remember, the most important thing is to create a space that feels comfortable and functional for you. Get creative, and don't be afraid to experiment with different focal points until you find the one that works best for your small bedroom!

Use mirrors to create the illusion of more space

Mirrors are a great way to create the illusion of more space in a small bedroom. Here are some tips to achieve this:

Choose the Right Mirror

Select a mirror that is large and has a minimalist design with a small frame. The larger the mirror, the more it will reflect light and make the space feel open and airy. A tall wall mirror can also create the illusion of height, making your walls appear longer. If you're placing the mirror above a piece of furniture, make sure there's a little breathing room—a mirror looks best with a minimum of a 2-inch border from the edge of the frame to the edge of the wall or ceiling.

Place the Mirror Opposite a Window

Positioning a mirror opposite a window is a great way to bring the outdoors in and make the room feel bigger. It helps reflect the view and natural light, creating a sense of expanded space. If you don't have a large window, you can achieve a similar effect by hanging a mirror behind a pendant light or a chandelier to reflect artificial light.

Use Mirrors in Transitional Areas or Opposite Doorways

Hanging a mirror near room entrances or transitional areas can extend your perception of the space. Placing a mirror opposite a doorway tactically masks boundaries between rooms, elongating the eye-line and borrowing space and light from the next room.

Use Mirrored Furniture

If wall space is limited, consider using mirrored furniture such as a mirrored coffee table, accent table, or storage console. These reflective surfaces will help to create the illusion of more space and reflect light through the room.

Use Mirrored Wardrobes or Doors

In a small bedroom, mirrored wardrobes or doors can be a great space-saving solution. They provide storage while also reflecting light back into the room and creating the illusion of more space.

Use Mirrors to Enhance Light

Mirrors can be used to bring more light into a room. Place a mirror near a light source, such as a lamp or a candle, to boost brightness and add atmosphere and dimension to the space.

Opt for multi-functional furniture

When decorating a small bedroom, it's important to make the most of your space by choosing multi-functional furniture. This can help you save space and create a more open and inviting area. Here are some ways to do this:

Opt for Multi-Functional Pieces

Choose furniture that can serve multiple purposes to maximise your space. For example, a dressing table can double as a desk for working from home, or a stool can be used as a side table, plant stand, or extra seating. A chest at the foot of your bed can serve as a linen closet and a bench for putting on shoes. A floating shelf can hold books and display decorations, and a narrow console table can hold jewellery without taking up too much space.

Built-In and Custom Storage

Consider custom built-in storage solutions such as a bookcase surrounding your bed, or invest in a bed with built-in storage. Built-in shelves or a custom headboard with storage can also serve as nightstands, saving space and adding visual interest. If custom work is not in your budget, look for ready-made furniture with built-in storage, such as drawers or shelves.

Double-Duty Nightstands

Nightstands with drawers and shelves provide extra storage and can even replace a dresser in a small bedroom. Alternatively, you can skip the nightstand altogether and mount a sconce for lighting, or turn the nightstand to face the wall opposite the bed to save space.

Floating Furniture

Floating furniture, such as wall-mounted shelves or a floating desk, can add functionality without taking up valuable floor space. A floating side table or bookshelf can provide a place for a charging phone and a cup of water without taking up too much room.

Nesting Tables

Instead of a traditional nightstand, try using nesting tables, which can create more storage room and provide extra space when needed without bringing in more furniture.

By choosing multi-functional furniture and being creative with your space, you can make the most of your small bedroom and create a comfortable and inviting environment.

Embrace vertical storage

When decorating a small bedroom, it's important to make the most of the space you have. One way to do this is by embracing vertical storage solutions. This means utilising the wall space and ceiling to create more storage options without taking up valuable floor space. Here are some ways to embrace vertical storage in a small bedroom:

• Install high shelves: Make use of the wall space by installing shelves higher up than usual. This creates the illusion of more space in the room while providing extra storage.
• Add floating shelves: Floating shelves are a great way to turn any corner into a storage display without taking up floor space. They can be used to store books, trinkets, and other small items.
• Hang hanging racks: Hanging garment racks are a clever way to create more closet storage without taking up any floor space. You can also add a dresser underneath for a functional dressing area.
• Get creative with shelving: Try using shelving that doubles as art. A hanging shelf can store and display your favourite items while adding a decorative touch to the room.
• Utilise the space above your bed: Install built-in shelving above your bed to store books and other belongings. This functional solution not only provides extra storage but can also serve as a unique headboard.
• Use a bookcase headboard: A bookcase headboard serves multiple purposes. It provides storage for books and other items, replaces the need for a bedside table, and can even display artwork.
• Mount a sconce: Instead of a traditional bedside lamp, mount a sconce to the wall. This frees up space on your nightstand and creates a chic, space-saving lighting solution.

By embracing vertical storage, you can maximise the potential of your small bedroom, creating a functional and stylish space.

Make the most of your bed

When it comes to decorating a small bedroom, the bed is a key piece of furniture to consider. Here are some tips to make the most of your bed:

Choose the Right Bed Size and Frame

Opt for a bed size that is appropriate for the space. If you can manage without a queen-size bed, go for a full or even a twin to free up valuable floor space. Choose a bed frame with a sleek and minimal design. A bed with a low profile, such as a platform bed or a storage bed with no footboard, will also help keep the middle of your room open and create the illusion of more space.

Make a Statement with the Headboard

A bold headboard can serve as a focal point and draw the eye towards the back of the room, making the space feel larger. Consider an interesting shape, a vibrant colour, or an all-over pattern. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even create a DIY headboard by hanging a tapestry or a large piece of artwork behind the bed.

Utilise Under-Bed Storage

Under-bed storage is a great way to maximise space in a small bedroom. Invest in some storage containers or pretty baskets that can slide under the bed, or opt for a bed with built-in storage compartments. This is an excellent way to keep extra belongings out of sight and create a more streamlined look.

Get Creative with Bedside Tables

Bedside tables can be tricky in a small space. Look for narrow options, such as floating shelves or wall-mounted sconces, to save space. Alternatively, you could try nesting tables, which provide additional storage without taking up too much room. If you're really tight on space, consider a hanging shelf or a small pedestal table instead of a traditional bedside table.

Layer with Bedding and Pillows

Don't be afraid to make a statement with your bedding. Invest in a fabulous bedspread or coverlet that complements the room's colour palette. Layer with textured linens and throw pillows to add visual interest and make the space feel cosy and inviting.

By following these tips and getting creative with your bed and bedding, you can make the most of your small bedroom and create a stylish and functional space.

Frequently asked questions