Thinking about giving your bijou bedroom a refresh or just want to know how to maximise space in a compact room? Then these small bedroom ideas will provide the perfect inspiration!
With a whole host of bedroom ideas, including expert tips and advice, our round-up below can help you turn a tiny cramped space into a must-see retreat, with practical storage solutions and enviable interior design schemes.
Even the most humble of box rooms has the ability to transform into a comfortable small bedroom idea, and clever use of furniture can turn it into a multi-functional space too, incorporating useful study and storage areas.
Small bedroom ideas
The most obvious piece of furniture you’ll want to consider in a bedroom is the bed, and we’d always suggest looking into a storage bed, to really maximise your space.
But bedroom storage ideas, wardrobes and somewhere to store our things in general, comes in at close second.
Rachal Hutcheson, National Retail Manager at Sharps says,
‘When it comes to small bedroom storage, our individual needs are unique, and functional solutions will need to consider both the type of items you are looking to store and the space you have to fill.’
‘From a practical and aesthetical perspective, fitted wardrobes offer the most effective and efficient way to make use of the space within your bedroom. A truly bespoke design, that has been created to fit the exact contours of your room will offer, on average, 40% more space than ordinary fitted wardrobe designs.’
Laura Burnett, Buyer at Feather & Black (opens in new tab) goes on to say, ‘Small bedrooms are wonderful, cosy places in any house, offering a snug retreat from the outside world.’
‘They can also be the ideal guest room, a fun hideaway for young kids or a space for some well-earned alone time. One problem with smaller bedrooms is the issue of space. More often than not, most of the room is taken up by the bed as a centrepiece, and it can be challenging to fit in anything else.’
But with our range of savvy ideas and clever tips below, you’ll be sure to find plenty of small bedroom ideas to solve all of your bedroom woes.
1. Build in a vanity unit
(Image credit: Future Plc/Anna Stathaki)
To ensure a small bedroom stays clutter-free, include a dressing table in your built-in storage so that your make-up trinkets can be shut away to give the room a streamlined look.
If you have space for a walk-in wardrobe, then this is a great way to free up the space where the bed would be placed, meaning the room can appear from streamlined and less cluttered.
2. Be smart with storage in a box room
(Image credit: Future Plc/Dominic Blackmore)
If your small bedroom is more of a box room, you’ll want to know how to arrange furniture in a bedroom to make the most of the space.
Storage is also an issue too, so make a feature of a high shelf on decorative brackets, with grab-handled baskets that fit flush to the ceiling, for storage that doesn’t intrude into the space.
Use a wall-mounted wire magazine rack as a book holder if there’s no space for a bedside table.
It’s also important to make a small room feel as airy as possible, and one way to do this is enhancing the natural light levels.
Nic Shacklock, Head of Marketing at Online-Bedrooms.co.uk (opens in new tab)says,
“One of the key aspects to brighten up a small bedroom is by letting the natural light in. Try not to block any windows with headboards or plants but allow the light in to make the room feel more spacious. Having natural light will also create an upliftingenvironment within the room and won’t make it feel shallow and tight.”
3. Invest in bespoke storage
(Image credit: Sharps)
While fitted wardrobe ideas may seem pricey, it’s worth the investment to maximise the space in your small bedroom.
Rachal Hutcheson, National Retail Manager at Sharps (opens in new tab) says, ‘There are many options for personalising a fitted wardrobe, to ensure it works perfectly for your lifestyle, for example combining hanging rails with pigeonhole shelving, internal drawers and shoe storage will help keep you organised whilst allowing easy access to the clothes you need, when you need them.’
‘Consider curved corner rails, pull out trouser rails, and pull down hanging rails to ensure your wardrobe is as efficient as it can be.’
‘It’s also important to take a wardrobe’s doors into consideration to ensure they are easily opened in a small room. If a bed is in close proximity to wardrobe, opt for sliding doors like these, from £2000 (opens in new tab), to provide a sleek, effective alternative, whilst mirrored styles will help to make a space look bigger.’
4. Use multifunctional furniture
(Image credit: Sofa.com)
When space is at a premium, multifunctional furniture comes into its own. Look for pieces that can double up, such as this Hardy bedside storage ottoman in Twilight, £860 (opens in new tab), from Sofa.com, that can be used at the foot of the bed as a seat while acting also acting as the ideal place for extra blankets and layers to pull out at a moments notice.
Keeping the extra bedding out of sight helps to create a clutter-free space, which contributes to making the space feel bigger.
Patricia Gibbons, Head of Merchandising and Buying at Sofa.com (opens in new tab) says, ‘When it comes to bedrooms, a clutter free space should be a priority when looking at layouts. Your bedroom should be a cosy room designed for relaxation and winding down – avoid having too much furniture and make sure you have multifunctional pieces that work extra hard to keep the clutter at bay.’
‘Look to storage benches and ottoman footstools sat at the end of the bed to quickly stash away laptops and chargers if your bedroom is now your home office and reclaim the space as one fit for relaxation in the evenings.’
5. Rethink the layout
(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)
One thing that small bedroom ideas will always benefit from is rethinking the traditional layout. Learn how to arrange furniture in a bedroom in a way that makes you feel less overwhelmed. Position the majority of furniture on just one wall, preferably the wall you see less of when in the space to stop it feeling overcrowded.
Try to minimise the amount of furniture within small bedroom ideas, by being resourceful with clever multifunctional pieces – the sideboard that also acts as a dressing table for instance.
6. Utilise all awkward corners for storage
(Image credit: Future PLC/Rachael Smith)
When space is premium it calls for savvy storage solutions. Using an otherwise unusable space for concealed bedroom storage ideas helps to prevent clutter from encroaching on an already limited space.
Out of sight is best for a small bedroom, because any visible items will make the room feel overcrowded – therefore feeling even smaller.
7. Build storage around the bed
(Image credit: Future PLC/Dominic Blackmore)
Bespoke wardrobes are the most effective way to get the most out of your bedroom storage. Built in wardrobes on either side of the bed help to create a frame which holds the gaze on that one wall. This allows the remaining walls to be free of any obstructions which will take up valuable space. Use the other walls for artwork or mirrors instead.
You could use the space further by creating storage above the bed too, just be mindful not to make the decor feel dated – or claustrophobic with too much going on.
8. Reflect on surface choices
(Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole)
Double the feel of small bedroom ideas by using reflective surfaces to create the optical illusion of continuing space. Who hasn’t walked into a bar and thought it was double the size, only to realise it was a clever use of mirrors which led you to believe so? Mirrored wardrobes, a reflect shiny wall covering and mirrored tables are used in the compact bedroom to make the space feel bigger than it is, while adding a touch of romantic bedroom ideas to the space.
Maybe using all three feels too overwhelming, fear not – the same principles work by using only a single one of the these elements. Think about where you can best install reflective surfaces when designing your small bedroom layout.
9. Create the illusion of space
(Image credit: Dulux)
Paint is a marvellous solution for so many decorating problems. Not only can a splash of colour instantly help to invigorate a space, making it feel more inviting, it can also be used in a way that helps to combat wider aesthetic issues, such as making small spaces feel bigger.
Take for instance this small bedroom paint idea, where a combination of colours has helped to create a border, and therefore has created a new perspective for the walls. An optical illusion of sorts.
The thoughtful combination of Dulux’s Denim drift on the bottom half, met by a slim dado-style border of Spiced Honey, topped by Tranquil Dawn helps to break the room – lengthening the walls. A great paint solution to tackle the perils of small spaces.
10. Make your headboard work harder
(Image credit: Future PLC/Joanna Henderson)
If space is in short supply, ditch the usual style of headboard for one with a gap for storage and a surface area, where you can place things. This means you can do away with bulky bedside tables, as you’ll have a convenient spot to stash your bedtime reading. Plus, this works for budget bedroom ideas too as you’re getting two pieces of furniture for one!
Go one better with your bedroom ideas for small rooms and install wall lamps too.
11. Store from floor to ceiling
(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)
Invest in a wardrobe as tall as you can physically get into the room, slimline is of course best to save taking up valuable floorspace. Then use the space above the wardrobe ideas to seek extra storage room, for boxes and baskets to ensure every inch of space from floor to ceiling is best used.
Keep the baskets and boxes orderly and tidy, to avoid it look chaotic.
12. Build storage into alcoves
(Image credit: Future PLC/Jody Stewart)
Whether your small bedroom ideas have alcoves or awkward spaces caused by eaves make the most of them by creating smart storage solutions. The architectural nature of alcoves provides the perfect place to feature a run of open shelves, with bespoke cupboards below.
The shelves of this savvy alcove idea are ideal for housing books and things you wish to have on display, while the cupboards are perfect for bigger storage needs, to conceal items such as extra bedding or boxes of life admin.
13. Double up your dressing table
(Image credit: Future PLC/Tim Young)
With working from home the norm, at least on occasion, for many, even the bedroom has been brought onto the roster. While it’s not ideal to work or have your computer in the bedroom, can your dressing table double up as a writing desk?
Even if it’s just somewhere to peacefully gather your thoughts and write your to do list, it’s worth keeping the surface area clear rather than cluttering it with lotions and potions.
14. Elevate storage off the floor
(Image credit: Future)
Look to the walls for bedroom ideas for small rooms. Hanging a storage unit on the wall instead of having a bedside table that sits on the floor will instantly free up space. One with a drop down desk will give you somewhere to sit and do your make up or place your morning coffee.
15. Use uplifting colour to open up the space
(Image credit: Future PLC/Dominic Blackmore)
Using an uplifting bedroom colour scheme, such as a sunshine yellow, can help to invigorate any small space, just be mindful of how you use the colour. Painting the bright colour up to mid room height will help to anchor the colour to the bottom half of the room.
Finish the rest of the painting in a bright white or similar neutral to help keep the look airy and spacious. Allow the added splash of colour to determine a tonal palette for bedding, accessories and floor rugs to create a cohesive look.
16. Wall mount the lighting
(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)
Wall-mounted lighting in a small bedroom can help to free up some much needed surface space. Using the wall allows you to perfectly place the task lighting to enhance the layout.
17. Step things up with vertical storage
(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)
Ladder storage is a great way to achieve the benefit of wall shelving whilst having the flexibility to move it when you want to change things around. This one perfectly suits this tight space in the bedroom but it could just as easily work in the bathroom or a small sitting room.
18. Buy a wardrobe with a sliding door
(Image credit: The Cotswold Company)
Barely have space to move in your bedroom, but have lots of clothes that need a home? Try a wardrobe with a sliding door. This piece features a full-height rail on one side, together with five drawers and a half-height wardrobe above with removable shelves.
Adding wardrobe organisers will help keep even the tiniest of spaces spick and span.
And when it comes to awkward shaped rooms, there are options for these spaces too.
Rachal says, ‘Small or awkward spaces often need intelligent solutions to make the most of them so consider curved corner rails, pull out trouser rails, pull down hanging rails to ensure your wardrobe is as efficient as it can be.’
19. Swap the bed for a sofa bed
(Image credit: Future PLC/Carolyn Barber)
When square footage is at a premium, try incorporating a wall bed instead of a traditional sofa bed within small bedroom ideas. It takes a standard mattress, offering greater comfort, and can fold away to look like a wardrobe or cabinet, freeing up valuable floor space for a desk and chair.
Ensure that the surrounding furniture is lightweight so that it can easily be moved to accommodate a pull-down bed. If you have adequate ceiling height, look at bespoke options, such as a simple mezzanine incorporating a sleeping area on a raised platform with a wardrobe or shelving below.
20. Raise up your storage
(Image credit: Future PLC/Simon Whitmore)
Like any small space, the key to a successful compact bedroom is to create adequate storage within a functional layout. Often in a small guest bedroom, a couple of large, hard-working pieces of furniture will create a less cluttered look than several small pieces.
When square footage is at a premium, try incorporating floating shelves, or (if your budget allows) bespoke fitting above the bed for a streamlined bedroom ideas for small rooms that won’t compromise your space.
21. Hang a space-saving headboard
(Image credit: Future PLC/Dan Duchars)
You wouldn’t think a headboard would take up much space, but some designs can be deceptive. Where every inch of space counts look for alternative ways to add interest to a bedroom wall, without compromising on valuable space. A quirky wall-hung DIY headboard idea is a genius way to add a finishing touch to a bedstead, without having to encroach on the space.
This smart idea also saves the costs of buying a new bed when tastes or trends change, simply create a new backdrop for the bed by way of a new wall hanging.
22. Luxuriate in colour
(Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole)
Think you can’t add colour to small bedroom ideas? Think again! Tight spaces are a great for experimenting with colour, texture and design.
Combine petrol blue and aqua tones for a near-combustible mix; choose sumptuous silks and rich velvets for tactile bedspreads, cushions and curtains. But amidst these deep, rich shades, hold back a little white for ceilings and window frames.
23. Create a feature wall
(Image credit: Future PLC/Malcolm Menzies)
Be bold with a striking wallpaper and eye-catching artwork and turn play with bedroom accent wall ideas to create a focal point in a small space. Opt for a restricted colour palette with crisp white bed linen and furniture made from reclaimed wood.
Stick to mostly white bed linen so the look isn’t overly busy and introduce a splash of colour to liven up the scheme a notch.
24. Paint a small bedroom white
(Image credit: Future PLC/Jason Ingram)
Decorate walls and ceilings in the best white paint to visually open up a small space and free you to use colour and pattern in a controlled way elsewhere. Then go to town with cottage garden florals – against the plain background they won’t overpower within small bedroom ideas.
Let colourful fabrics take centre stage with a bold, red patterned bedspread and cushions that contrast with the rest of the room.
25. Use the space behind the bed
(Image credit: Future PLC/Simon Whitmore)
Make storage less visible by incorporating it into an unassuming area, such as the space behind the bed. Cleverly disguised units, most likely found at IKEA, will create a form of interest at the head of the bed in place of a headboard but will double up as hidden storage.
This hidden storage is the perfect place to keep extra blankets, hot water bottles and other bedtime essentials. It could also be an ideal storage solution for freshly laundered bedding, to ensure it’s close to hand come sheet changing day.
26. Create a cool work zone
(Image credit: Future)
In a kid’s room, take over part of the wardrobe space to create a cool work zone. Installing a wall lamp and hanging a pin board where you can fix pots for pens and other knick knacks will keep the desk space free for focusing on the important stuff.
27. Put a peg rail in place
(Image credit: Future PLC/Simon Whitmore)
Peg rails are not just for traditional Shaker kitchens. Use a simple peg rail in a bedroom to elevate any additional storage needs in a small bedroom space. Hang pictures, mirrors or even items of clothing to keep items off the floor. The versatile pegs allow for flexible storage, which will ensure every inch of space is usable.
28. Make it minimal
(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)
Symmetry is your friend when you need to strip back to essentials in a small room. Double up on bedside cabinets and lighting for an uncomplicated, easy-on-the-eye scheme. Use hits of duplicated colour to create visual balance and add definition and energy.
Stick with neutral bedroom ideas as a fail-safe space enhancer. Here, soft neutrals add just the right amount of warmth, while the minimal wall decorations draw the eye to the bed and keep it there.
29. Embrace pattern
(Image credit: Future PLC/Dominic Blackmore)
If you love bold prints or texture, don’t shy away from your favourite pattern in a small bedroom.
Whether it’s on walls or soft furnishings, make a feature out of a strong design: papering one wall with flocked or floral wallpaper will stop the pattern from taking over the small room, but will still achieve the desired finish.
30. Look to furniture with form and function
(Image credit: Future PLC/Dominic Blackmore)
Most homes suffer from bottlenecks so think laterally too about how to free up space. Can a small bedroom have wardrobes in the hall outside, with dressing room appeal? Challenge your preconceptions, but do make sure any solution is practical.
Another option is to go for a statement bed and little else, as we’ve done here. If you follow this route, use a bed that offers plenty of in-built hidden storage, or space underneath to store boxes and vacuum bags.
Which colour is best for a small bedroom?
Generally speaking white and neutral are thought best for decorating small spaces, especially small bedroom ideas because the colours are calming and tranquil.
Nic Shacklock, Head of Marketing at Online-Bedrooms.co.uk says,
‘Styling a small bedroom can be the make-or-break difference in having a cluttered small space or a clean and tidy room. Selecting the colour scheme for a small bedroom is the first step in maximising space.’
‘Having white on the walls can make a bedroom feel airier and makes the room look bigger and spacious. If white isn’t to your personal taste, bright colours such as sky blues and soft greens can also do the trick.’
Having said that there are ways in which you can incorporate colour into a small bedroom space without overwhelming the space as these bedroom paint ideas prove.
How do I arrange my small bedroom?
Try to minimise clutter within small bedroom ideas to instantly make the room feel more spacious. A clutter-free bedroom is also key to getting a good night’s sleep too.
Keep furniture to a minimum in a small bedroom. Where you can opt for elevated designs, those on legs rather than flush to the ground in order to free up floor space.
And let’s not forget the the benefit of bespoke furniture when it comes to planning and arranging your space.
Simon Tcherniak, Senior Designer at Neville Johnson (opens in new tab) says,
‘Small spaces don’t necessarily translate to small storage opportunity. Fitted furniture can be configured to any size and shape of room, even small and awkward alcoves or nooks.’
‘Neville Johnson are experts at designing bespoke storage solutions that will completely transform a space into one that is attractive and functional. Using clever and innovative fitted furniture means you have control over how your space is crafted, to ensure all of your storage needs are met.’
There is also the storage potential under beds, but just be sure your items are stored out of sight at all times. The calming effect of a bedroom is ruined when sports equipment or surplus shoes are spilling into the room.
The aim is to keep as much off the floor to create a sense of space, look up at the ceiling to remind yourself of the floorspace within the room.
And of course make sure the space is comforting, whether large or small this is always the most important factor when arranging a bedroom layout.
How do you maximise space in a small bedroom?
Storage solutions are key to maximising space in a small bedroom which is hopefully where our small bedroom ideas can help.
But as well as ensuring it is a practical space, you also want it to be an inviting and beautiful space too, so it’s important you strike a balance of the two.
The experts at King Living (opens in new tab) say, ‘For us at KING Living, effective storage solutions are a prerequisite for a functional, orderly and practical bedroom.’
‘A storage bed will help you steer clear of additional furniture like cupboards, and chest of drawers – in turn freeing up more floor space. Ottoman beds with generous built-in storage compartments are an ideal fit for large and small bedrooms alike and are always popular options amongst our customers.’
‘Functional bedside tables are an essential in the bedroom, they not only provide an ideal home for lighting, vases and reading material, but also offer discreet storage to maintain a clutter-free sleeping environment.’
‘Space permitting, accenting the bedroom with additional elements such as an occasional chair or ottoman will build flexibility within the room.’
Laura Burnett, Buyer at Feather & Black (opens in new tab) agrees that storage beds are a great buy for a small bedroom and goes on to say, ‘Ottoman bed provide hidden but impressive storage with the entire mattress base lifting up with an easy-to-operate mechanism – perfect for those looking for extra space to store spare linens and bulky items such as bedding.’
‘The same rules apply when buying an ottoman as with any other bed – consider the style and size first. As an ottoman has a solid base it can feel larger than a classic bedstead with legs, so it’s important to think about whether a wooden or upholstered ottoman is better aesthetically, and then decide on colour or fabric and how it will feel in your room – darker colours can be dramatic and statement making, but also feel more imposing.’
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