Planning A Bedroom Layout: Maximizing Space And Functionality

Planning a bedroom layout can be a fun challenge, but it's important to get it right. The way you arrange your bedroom will have a huge impact on the functionality of the space, so it's key to make the most of every square inch. Start by drawing up a floor plan, which will make it easier to work out how much space is available and what the best position is for larger items of furniture. Measure the room's dimensions and plot everything out on graph paper, including windows, doors, fixtures, and any architectural details.

The most important consideration is where to position the bed. As the largest item, it will determine the positioning of other large pieces of furniture. In small bedrooms, position the bed centred along the longest wall. Having the bed facing the door can help draw you into the room and create good Feng Shui. This is known as the 'commanding position'. Avoid having the bed directly lined up with the door and instead arrange it in a staggered position.

Positioning the bed

• The bed should be placed on the longest wall of the room, if possible. This will help to create a sense of symmetry and balance in the room.
• If the room has a fireplace, consider placing the bed on the opposite wall to showcase the fireplace.
• Avoid placing the bed in front of a window, as it can block natural light and create a sense of imbalance.
• If possible, position the bed so that you have a clear line of sight to the window when you wake up. This will allow you to take in the view and let in natural light.
• Consider the placement of doorways and entrances when positioning the bed. Avoid placing the bed directly in line with the door, as this can create a sense of vulnerability. Instead, try a staggered position or place the bed on the same wall as the doorway.
• Allow for enough space around the bed, especially if it is a larger bed like a king or queen. You should have at least two feet of space to walk around the bed and access it from both sides.
• If the bedroom has an en-suite bathroom, consider the placement of the bed in relation to the bathroom door. Good Feng Shui practice suggests not placing the head of the bed against the wall of the bathroom.
• If the bed needs to be placed in a corner due to space constraints, ensure that one long side of the bed is against the wall to maximise floor space.
• Use paper templates or tape out the dimensions of the bed to visualise how it will fit in the room and how much space is left for other furniture.

Creating a seating area

Choose the Right Furniture

Select pieces that are proportional to your bedroom size. If you have a smaller bedroom, consider a shallow bench, a pair of stools, a petite chair, or an ottoman that can double as a footrest and side table. For larger bedrooms, you can incorporate a love seat, sofa, or accent chairs.

Maximise Natural Light and Views

Place your seating area near a window to take advantage of natural light and any beautiful views. Ensure your furniture arrangement doesn't obstruct the window, and choose window treatments that can be easily pulled back.

Create a Cozy Nook

Consider creating a dedicated reading corner by adding a comfortable chair, a small table, and a lamp. If you have the space, a chaise lounge or a rattan swing chair can provide the perfect spot to relax and unwind.

Define the Space

Use rugs, curtains, or partitions to define your seating area and give it a sense of intimacy. Sheer curtains, in particular, can help separate the space while still allowing natural light to filter through.

Complement the Architecture

Take cues from the architecture of your bedroom when designing your seating area. For example, if you have a beautiful exposed stone wall, set your seating against it to showcase this feature.

Add Comfort and Style

Enhance the comfort and style of your seating area with soft furnishings. Throw blankets, textured cushions, and fluffy rugs can make the space feel inviting and cosy. Don't forget to add a small table or ottoman to rest your morning coffee!

Making the most of views

Making the most of a view is an important consideration when planning a bedroom layout. If you're lucky enough to have a beautiful view, position the bed so that it has a clear line of sight to the window. Avoid placing the bed in front of a window without a view, as this can block natural light and create a sense of imbalance.

If your bedroom has an ensuite bathroom, consider the placement of the bed in relation to the bathroom door. Good Feng Shui practice dictates that the head of the bed should not be positioned against the wall of the bathroom. However, in some cases, placing the bed against the ensuite wall can have advantages, such as keeping the basin or toilet out of view when the door is open.

When positioning the bed, ensure there is a clear pathway from the bedroom door and that the entrance is unobstructed, especially if there is an ensuite bathroom. If possible, avoid placing the bed directly in front of windows, as this can block the view and make the bed more vulnerable. Instead, consider positioning the bed on an adjacent wall to the window, allowing for a view while avoiding direct sunlight and draughts.

To enhance the view and create a bright spot for a dressing table, consider adding sheer blinds or voile panels to filter the light. Positioning the dressing table across from a window can also provide flattering lighting, with wall lights providing a more flattering light than overhead lighting in the evening.

If your bedroom has French doors or a balcony, you may want to consider the layout to maximise the view and natural light. For example, you could position the bed perpendicular to the door or on the same wall as the doorway, allowing you to take in the view while in bed.

Using Feng Shui

Feng shui is an ancient Chinese practice that aims to create balance and harmony in a living space. The goal is to manage the positive and negative qi (or energy) in a room. This is achieved by implementing rules regarding positioning, spacing, and colours. Here are some tips for planning a bedroom layout using the principles of feng shui:

• The bed should be placed in the "command position", which means it should be diagonally across from the door, with a clear view of the room and entrance, but not directly in line with it. This position is said to promote safety and security.
• The bed should be placed against a solid wall, preferably with a solid headboard, to provide a sense of stability and support.
• Avoid placing the bed underneath a window, as this is believed to create a sense of vulnerability.
• Avoid placing the bed directly in front of or in line with the door. In feng shui, this is known as the "Death Position" and is believed to create vulnerability and restlessness.
• Ensure there is equal space on both sides of the bed and that you can get in and out of bed from either side.
• Place matching nightstands on each side of the bed to provide a grounding effect and anchor the energy of the bed.
• Balance the five elements of feng shui (wood, fire, earth, metal, and water) in your room. For example, use wooden furniture, scented candles for the fire element, and natural materials like stone or clay for the earth element. However, avoid including the water element in the bedroom as it is believed to bring bad luck.
• Incorporate natural elements such as plants, natural fabrics, and materials like wood and stone to promote a sense of tranquility and calmness.
• Avoid clutter in the bedroom, as this can create stagnant energy and disrupt the flow of qi.
• Keep work-related items, such as laptops and paperwork, out of the bedroom to create a sense of relaxation and promote restful sleep.
• Avoid placing mirrors directly opposite the bed, as they are believed to reflect and amplify energy, which can be disruptive to sleep.

Lighting and mood

Lighting:

• Consider the size of your bedroom, the height of your ceilings, and the amount of natural light when making lighting decisions.
• For bedrooms with low ceilings, flush-mount overhead lights and recessed pot lights work well. Wall sconces and small table lamps are also excellent choices for bedside lighting.
• Grander bedrooms may call for a chandelier or a well-placed ceiling fan with a light.
• If you have a reading nook or a dressing table, ensure you have adequate task lighting in these areas, such as a floor lamp or wall-mounted lights.
• If you have artwork or collections to display, accent lighting can be used to highlight these features.

Mood:

• To create a relaxing and peaceful mood, aim for a simple and uncluttered layout. Avoid overcrowding the space with unnecessary furniture.
• Symmetrical layouts can bring harmony and balance to the room, especially in restful and relaxing spaces.
• Use mirrors to enhance the aesthetics and functionality of the room. Mirrors can make the room appear more spacious and reflect light.
• Create a sense of balance and symmetry by having nightstands on both sides of the bed. Nightstands provide a great opportunity to personalise your space with lamps, plants, and accessories.
• A headboard can add stability to the room and is recommended by Feng Shui enthusiasts.
• Avoid positioning the bed directly in line with the door. Instead, try a staggered position or place the bed at an angle to the door.
• Ensure there is a clear pathway to the bed and other furniture from the main bedroom door.
• If you have an en-suite bathroom, consider closing the door to maintain privacy and avoid any noise from plumbing.
• If your bedroom has a fireplace, position the bed to face this area, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
• Choose soft, neutral colours to promote a calm and serene mood.
• To create a Zen-like oasis, minimise clutter and maximise modern, organic elements.
• For a cozier space, pick a tufted headboard, floral fabrics, and traditional furniture.
• If you want an eclectic look, don't be afraid to mix patterns, colours, and textures.

Frequently asked questions