20 Small Bedroom Ideas to Maximise Space and Comfort

Create a haven of style, comfort and practicality. While challenging, small bedrooms offer a world of possibilities for the design buff to create aesthetic and functional spaces, mainly using colour, bedding and the right furniture selections. This guide will shine a light on an assortment of small bedroom ideas and decorating tips. Also, find suggestions on bedding colours, tones and shades, and fabric types to make your private sanctum look bigger and more relaxing. Let's dive in.

Quick Links

• Frequently asked questions
• Cosy modern small bedroom ideas: bedding & colour
• [BONUS] 11 small bedroom decorating ideas and storage hacks
• Design ideas for small bedrooms

Frequently asked questions

How to make a small bedroom look bigger?

You can make a small bedroom look bigger by using light colours, utilising vertical space, using space-saving furniture, and avoiding clutter.

What kind of bed is best for a small room?

Small bedroom design principles suggest a platform bed or a storage bed for a small room, as they provide ample storage space and take up less floor space. Read on to discover small bedroom storage ideas later in this guide.

How can I maximise storage in a small bedroom?

Clever small bedroom storage includes under-bed storage, wall-mounted shelves, and multifunctional furniture.

What are good colours for small bedrooms?

Light colours, neutrals, cool colours, and monochromatic colours can help create an illusion of space and make a bedroom appear more spacious.

Can I have a big bed in a small room?

Yes, you can decorate a small bedroom with a big bed, but choosing the right size and style allows for enough space to move around.

How to style a small bedroom?

By choosing the right bedding, adding wall art, and incorporating personal touches, you can add style and personality to small rooms.

What kind of lighting is best for a small bedroom?

A combination of ambient, task and accent lighting creates a warm and inviting atmosphere in a small bedroom.

Cosy, modern small bedroom ideas: bedding & colour

If you're looking to expand your small rooms visually, colour is a potent tool. In fact, some wall and bedding colours can create the illusion of space, making the room appear more expansive, airy, and visually appealing. For instance, lighter shades in your bed linen can open up the room and make it feel longer. Neutral colours such as beige, grey and off-white are popular choices, while brighter shades like pastel pink and blue can give the room a fresh and airy feel. For a bold, statement-making look, consider adding a pop of colour or pattern with a vibrant throw pillow or a colourful quilt. There are several other ways bedding and the choice of bedlinen and colours can make a small bedroom appear more spacious and extensive. Let's find out what they are.

Vertical patterns

Vertical patterns in bedlinen create lines that draw the eye upward, making the room appear taller and larger than it is. This can be especially useful in a small, limited bedroom. These patterns also lend a sense of movement and energy to the room, which helps make the space feel larger and more vibrant. Vertical patterns add depth and dimension without taking up too much space.

Simple designs

Create a calm and serene atmosphere with bed linen offering clean lines and a minimalistic aesthetic. Minimalistic prints and patterns also feel versatile, allowing you to easily switch the look and feel of the room with different accessories. This makes it easy to update the room's look without redecorating extensively. Investing in simple and timeless designs in bed linen is one of the most valuable small bedroom ideas that can elevate your spaces without much effort.

Multifunctional bedding

Investing in a duvet that can double up as a comforter or a quilt used as a bedspread will save space and keep small rooms organised. This type of bedding is versatile and can be easily adjusted to suit the changing seasons and temperatures. Multifunctional bedding can also be folded up and stored away when not in use, helping to keep your small bedroom tidy and clutter-free. It's more affordable than buying separate bedding items, which can save money. Investing in multifunctional bedding for your small bedroom is a nifty hack to remember.

Sheets with a high thread count

Choosing sheets with a high thread count can create a comfortable feel in your small bedroom. Thread count measures the number of threads in one square inch of fabric, and the higher the thread count, the softer the material will be. This makes it ideal for a small bedroom, as it creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere. High thread-count bedding is durable and can withstand regular wear and tear better than lower thread-count fabrics. It's an excellent choice for a small bedroom, where furniture and decorations will likely be moved around frequently.

Bedding pro tip

Popular bedding options include duvets and comforters, quilts and coverlets, and sheets and pillowcases. We recommend soft and plush fabrics such as cotton, linen and flannel for a cosy look and feel.

Small bedroom ideas: colour tip

In addition to choosing the right colours, remember to select the right shade and intensity of colour. For example, a pale blue is better than a bright blue, as the former contributes to a more soothing ambience.

Decorating a small bedroom: pro tip

Window treatments play an essential role in the design of a small bedroom. Opt for fabrics that allow natural light to filter in. Blinds or curtains you can draw open quickly will help keep the room bright and spacious.

[BONUS] 11 small bedroom decorating ideas and storage hacks

Add an accent wall in a bold colour or pattern

Adding an accent wall to a small bedroom is a great way to make the space feel alive and vibrant. A bold colour or pattern can help draw the eye and create a stunning focal point. Whether you choose something bright and fun to stand out, or something subtle and calming, the effect will be the same. You can use wallpaper, paint, stencils, wood, or fabric to make your accent wall unique. The possibilities are endless!

Hang a large mirror to create the illusion of a larger room.

For small bedrooms, a large mirror can create the illusion of more space. A big mirror will reflect light around the room, making it appear larger and brighter. Choose a round or square mirror with a slim, sleek frame for a modern look. Or, if you want something more traditional, a classic ornate frame works well. Hang the mirror on a wall in the bedroom or on the back of a door, and enjoy a visually expansive space.

Install floating shelves to add storage and style

A floating shelf is a small bedroom decorating and storage solution worth incorporating. It provides extra storage space without taking up any floor space. Use it to display photos, books, plants and other decorative items. Choose from various materials, like wood, metal or glass, to find the perfect style for your bedroom. Installing floating shelves is an easy DIY project that anyone can do. Ensure you measure the walls carefully and use the appropriate screws to secure the frames.

Use furniture with multiple functions

Instead of a separate desk, opt for an armoire with shelves for storage and a fold-down desk for working. These are nifty small bedroom storage ideas worth trying for your home.

Invest in a day bed for extra seating and sleeping

Day beds offer comfortable seating for guests and the family during the day and extra sleeping options for the night. Whether looking for a stylish centrepiece for your living room or an extra bed for guests, a day bed can offer the perfect solution. The sleek design allows it to fit into any space, from a cosy nook to a large room. Not only does it add style and character to your home, but it is also comfortable and practical. It's easy to maintain and offers plenty of cushioning for hours of lounging and sleeping.

Paint the ceiling a lighter colour to draw the eye upward and visually add height

Painting your ceiling a lighter colour is an easy, cost-effective way to transform your room's look instantly. Drawing the eye upward can create an optical illusion of height, making your space appear larger and brighter. If you want to make a statement with colour, try a muted pastel shade or deep jewel tone. Alternatively, if you want a more subtle effect, opt for a neutral hue like white or cream for a timeless look. No matter which shade you choose, painting your ceiling is a great way to give your room a new lease of life. Before painting, prepare the surface with primer and use the proper tools and techniques to ensure the best result.

Add an area rug to define the space and create a cosy atmosphere

Suppose you're looking for a way to significantly create impact with minimal effort. In that case, an area rug makes for an effective and cosy modern small bedroom idea. From adding texture and colour to tying together disparate pieces in a room, area rugs can help you create the perfect space. Plus, they come in various sizes, shapes, colours, and materials, so you can find something to fit your needs. They can help ground furniture and make it easier to walk around the room without worrying about tripping over furniture legs or wires. Area rugs make small spaces look larger by creating separate areas within the same room. Whether building a cosy atmosphere or defining your space, an area rug can be the perfect solution.

Incorporate a storage ottoman

Ottomans are great for providing extra seating, but they also feature storage compartments that you can use to store items like blankets, books, and toys. Their versatile design allows them to be used in various settings. A storage ottoman can create an organised, clutter-free, functional, and aesthetically pleasing space. Whether you use it as a footrest, extra seating, or for storage purposes, a storage ottoman adds a touch of style and comfort to any room. It's also easy to move from one place to another, making it the perfect addition to small spaces and homes. The ottoman is one of our favourite modern small bedroom ideas to try.

Install a storage ladder to maximise storage in a small bedroom

If you need help maximising storage in a small bedroom, installing a storage ladder is perfect! Storage ladders come in various styles and designs, so you can find one that suits your bedroom, then organise your belongings and keep them off the floor. It's easy to access items on a ladder, and you can hang baskets for additional storage.

Invest in furniture with slim silhouettes

Slim furniture can provide a more organised visual and create a feeling of sophistication in your home. This type of furniture is excellent for minimalists and those who live in small spaces.

Accessorise with throw pillows

A decorative throw pillow can be a great way to create interest and lend pizzazz to a small room. Use in conjunction with light-coloured or neutral bedding and bed linen for impact.

Install window seats

Installing window seats in a small bedroom can be a great way to maximise space and add style. This modern small bedroom design idea helps incorporate seating into a room without taking up floor space. Not only are window seats aesthetically pleasing, but they also provide a much-needed place to sit and relax in a small room. They're perfect for enjoying the morning sun or curling up with a good book. With the right tools and materials, installing window seats is an easy DIY project that anyone can do.

Use colour to your advantage

In addition to your bedding colours, here are a few good colours for small bedrooms to keep in mind.

Cool Colours

Use blue, green, and purple colours to create a calming and refreshing atmosphere. Cool colours help expand space and make small bedrooms look bigger, as they tend to recede into the background and create an illusion of depth.

Monochromatic Colours

A monochromatic colour scheme, which consists of various shades of the same colour, can create a harmonious and unified look in a small bedroom.

Avoid Dark Colours

Hues like dark blue, green, and black can make a small bedroom feel cramped and oppressive.

Design ideas for small bedrooms

Are you looking for the perfect way to spruce up a small bedroom? Look no further than modern bedding! It's the ideal way to add cosy comfort and style to any space. There are many options, from luxurious duvet covers and quilts to stylish sheets and throws. Whether looking for something classic or contemporary, bedding will make your small bedroom feel fresh, vibrant and inviting. With various sizes, textures, colours and patterns available, there's something to suit every taste. Take the time to browse through our selection of modern bedding for small bedrooms and find the perfect set for your space. Need shopping advice? Our bed sheet buying guide offers tips galore. With such a range of cosy modern bedding options, you will surely find something to love! Check out the Home Hub for more inspiration about styling your bed like a pro. For tips on small space decorating and organisation, our small living room ideas guide has you covered.