Small Bedroom, Big Style: Tips For A Cozy Space

Designing a small bedroom can be challenging, but with the right tips and tricks, you can turn it into a stylish and functional space. From clever storage solutions to creative design ideas, there are many ways to make the most of your small bedroom. In this article, we will explore different approaches to styling a small bedroom, including choosing the right furniture, creating the illusion of space, and adding personal touches to make it your own. We will also look at specific tips for maximizing space, such as using vertical storage, embracing multifunctional pieces, and incorporating light and colour to create a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. By the end, you should have plenty of inspiration and practical advice for transforming your small bedroom into a cozy and stylish retreat.

Use mirrors to create the illusion of space

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

Placement

Place a mirror opposite a window to reflect nature and bring the outdoors in, making the room feel larger. If your small bedroom has tall ceilings, use a tall mirror to emphasise the height and make the room feel more spacious. Alternatively, if you have a small room without windows, use a mirror that's cut and framed to mimic one. This will open up the space and prevent a sense of claustrophobia.

Size and Framing

Opt for a single, large mirror with a small, simple frame. The larger the mirror, the better, as it expands the sense of visual space. An oversized mirror can be especially effective in a small bedroom, creating the illusion of doubled space. However, avoid using a grouping of small mirrors as this can make the room feel cramped.

Multi-functional Mirrors

Consider a mirror with a shelf attached, which can act as a nightstand, vanity, or storage solution. Alternatively, mirrored furniture such as a coffee table or accent table can also create the illusion of space by reflecting light around the room.

Mirrored Walls

If you're feeling adventurous, you can mirror an entire wall to double the visual space of the room. This technique creates depth and visually expands the boundaries of the room.

Lighting

Pair a mirror with a light source to boost brightness and add atmosphere. A table lamp or candle in front of a mirror will create a warm and inviting atmosphere while making the room feel larger.

Angles

If your small bedroom has any angled walls, hang a large mirror on them to allow for reflections from multiple angles, giving the illusion of a larger room.

Choose a colour palette that's light and tonal

When styling a small bedroom, it's important to choose a colour palette that's light and tonal. This will help to create a sense of spaciousness and calm. Here are some tips to achieve this:

Go for a tonal colour palette: Opt for colours that are in the same family or have similar undertones. This could be different shades of blue, green, grey, or neutrals like taupe and cream. By sticking to a tonal palette, you'll create a cohesive and relaxed atmosphere in your small bedroom.

Let in the light: Maximise natural light by keeping window treatments minimal. Sheer curtains or plain roller blinds can provide privacy while still letting in plenty of sunlight. Natural light will make your space feel more open and airy.

Choose light paint colours: When it comes to wall colours, opt for light and neutral shades like white, beige, or light grey. These colours will reflect light and make the space feel larger. You can also use colour psychology to your advantage by choosing colours that induce relaxation, such as baby blue, navy, or hunter green.

Add mirrors: Mirrors are a classic way to create the illusion of more space. Consider adding a large mirror opposite a window to reflect natural light, or install a mirrored wall to visually double the size of the room.

Simplify your colour palette: Stick to a limited colour palette to avoid overwhelming the space. Choose one or two main colours and use them consistently throughout the room. This will help to create a sense of cohesion and make the space feel more open.

Use accent colours sparingly: If you want to add a pop of colour, do so sparingly. Incorporate accent colours through accessories, bedding, or artwork without making them the main focus. This will add interest and personality to the room without making it feel cluttered.

By following these tips and choosing a light and tonal colour palette, you can create a small bedroom that feels spacious, calming, and stylish.

Opt for multifunctional furniture

Multifunctional furniture is a must-have when styling a small bedroom. It allows you to maximise your space and create a relaxing and efficient environment. Here are some tips to help you choose and arrange multifunctional furniture in your small bedroom:

Identify Your Priorities

Start by recognising your priorities and essential needs. For example, if you need a workspace, consider a desk that can double as a dressing table or a narrow console table that can serve as a nightstand and a workspace. If storage is a priority, look for beds with built-in drawers or compartments, or opt for a headboard that provides shelving or storage space.

Opt for Dual-Purpose Pieces

When space is limited, choose furniture that can serve multiple purposes. For instance, a storage-friendly nightstand that can also be used as a workspace, or a daybed with built-in storage that can function as a seating area during the day and a comfortable sleeping area at night.

Make Use of Vertical Space

Take advantage of vertical space by installing high shelves or utilising space above your bed. Built-in shelving or alcove beds can provide storage for books and decorations without taking up valuable floor space. Consider a tall, slender canopy bed to draw attention to the height of the room and create the illusion of more space.

Create a Seamless Flow

Arrange your multifunctional furniture in a way that promotes a seamless flow in the room. Place pieces with similar functions or themes together to create designated areas within the bedroom. For example, group your bed, nightstands, and a reading chair together to create a relaxing sleep and reading nook.

Customise Your Furniture

If possible, consider custom-made or made-to-measure furniture. This can be a worthwhile investment, as it ensures each piece perfectly fits the available space. Built-in drawers, wall-mounted bedside tables, and custom headboards with integrated storage can all help to maximise the efficiency of your small bedroom.

By opting for multifunctional furniture and following these tips, you can create a small bedroom that is both stylish and functional, making the most of every inch of available space.

Install clever storage solutions

When it comes to styling a small bedroom, clever storage solutions are key to making the space functional and aesthetically pleasing. Here are some ideas to maximise storage in a small bedroom:

Install High Shelves

If your small bedroom is limited in terms of wall space, consider installing shelves a little higher than usual. This provides ample storage that almost feels hidden away, without making the room feel crowded or cramped.

Opt for a Bookcase or Storage Headboard

A bookcase headboard is a great way to maximise storage without taking up additional space. It provides a place for books, bedtime essentials, and can even double as a bedside table. Alternatively, a custom headboard with built-in storage can include a bedside table, bookcase, and lighting, all while keeping the floor space clear.

Choose a Bed with Built-in Storage

A bed with built-in storage is a great way to maximise space, especially if your bedroom lacks a closet. Some models have drawers underneath the mattress, while others have mechanisms to lift the mattress for easy access to the storage area.

Vertical Storage

If you have an alcove bed, consider installing built-in shelving above it to store books and other belongings. This utilises the vertical space efficiently without making the room feel smaller.

Multifunctional Furniture

Look for furniture pieces that can serve multiple purposes. For example, a pair of drawers can function as a desk and a storage-friendly nightstand.

Create Multiuse Storage

Get creative and find clever ways to incorporate storage into other features of the room. For example, in a bunk room, the stairs leading up to the top bunk can also be designed as drawers, providing additional storage space.

By incorporating these clever storage solutions, you can make the most of your small bedroom and create a functional and stylish space.

Let in natural light

Letting in natural light is an important part of styling a small bedroom. Here are some tips to maximise the natural light in your small bedroom:

Keep window treatments to a minimum to make the most of the natural light. Opt for plain roller blinds, or hang flat panels of lace or voile for privacy. Sheer fabrics like lace and voile will allow light to filter through while still providing privacy. If you prefer more privacy, you can install roller blinds that can be fully retracted during the day to let in natural light, and closed at night for privacy.

Position your bed to make the most of the natural light. If you have a window in your small bedroom, consider placing your bed near the window to benefit from the light during the day. Pushing your bed up against the window can be a great way to utilise the space and maximise natural light. You can also use vertical blinds made to measure for privacy and to block out daylight when needed.

Use mirrors to reflect natural light. Hanging a mirror opposite a window is a great way to reflect natural light and make your space feel brighter and more open. A large mirror can help to create the illusion of a larger room, while also reflecting light and making the space feel airier.

Choose light paint colours to enhance the natural light in your room. Opting for light-coloured paint on your walls can help to reflect light and make your space feel brighter. Colours like white, light grey, or other neutral shades can help to maximise the natural light in your small bedroom.

Install wall sconces to save space and enhance lighting. Wall sconces can provide ambient lighting and free up space on your nightstand, allowing you to utilise natural light during the day and create a well-lit space at night without taking up too much room.

Frequently asked questions