Small bedrooms can be a bit of a design puzzle. You want them to feel cosy, but not cramped.
Stylish, but still practical. And above all, you need to squeeze in storage without the room resembling a storage unit.
The good news?
With a few clever tricks, you can transform even the tiniest space into a dreamy retreat that feels bigger, brighter and beautifully put-together.
Here’s how.
Key Takeaways
- Use your walls smartly: Floating shelves, gallery walls and feature walls keep things stylish without eating floor space.
- Trick the eye: High curtains, mirrors and clever colour choices make your room feel bigger and brighter.
- Choose furniture wisely: Multi-functional pieces, wall-mounted desks and hidden storage solutions are game-changers.
- Keep it light + personal: layered lighting and a sprinkle of personality through bedroom prints and accessories stop the space feeling boxy or bland.
Think Vertical: Use Your Walls Wisely
When floor space is precious, your walls become your best friends.
Floating shelves are a must, they add storage without eating into your square footage and look far sleeker than bulky bookcases.
Create a stylish gallery wall above your bed with bedroom prints that reflect your personality. Not only will this add character, but it also draws the eye upwards, giving the illusion of taller walls.
Create A Feature Wall
A bold feature wall can instantly add depth and interest to a small bedroom.
Whether it’s a splash of colour, a geometric wallpaper, or a wall full of typography prints, a feature wall distracts from the room’s size and makes it feel more intentional.
Pair with lighter walls around the rest of the room to balance things out.
Curtain Tricks To Add Height
Want your bedroom to feel taller?
Hang curtains high and wide. Positioning your curtain pole closer to the ceiling (rather than just above the window) elongates the walls, making the room feel loftier and more elegant.
Choose light fabrics for an airy finish, or go for rich textures if you want to cosy things up.
Mirrors: The Oldest Trick In The Book
Mirrors are small bedroom gold.
They bounce light around, make walls appear further away and give your space that sought-after airy vibe.
A full-length mirror leaning against the wall is both functional and chic, while mirrored wardrobe doors can double up on the illusion of space.
Be Strategic With Colour
Colour choices really do matter in small bedrooms. Lighter tones like soft whites, warm neutrals and pastels keep things bright and open.
That said, don’t be afraid of darker shades. A deep navy or forest green feature wall can create a cocooning feel without overwhelming the space, especially when paired with crisp white bedding and lighter accents.
Light It Up
Lighting is essential for setting the mood and making a small room feel less boxy.
Layer your lighting: ceiling lights for general brightness, wall sconces or pendant lamps for ambience, and fairy lights or LED strips for a playful touch.
Pro tip: wall-mounted lamps free up valuable bedside table space.
Multi-Functional Furniture Is Your Friend
When square footage is scarce, every piece of furniture should earn its keep.
Think ottomans that double as storage, a bed with drawers underneath, or a wall mounted desk that folds away when not in use.
A compact dressing table could double as a desk, while space saving storage benches at the end of the bed can stash away everything from bedding to books.
Get Clever With Hidden Storage
The key to a clutter-free small bedroom? Hidden storage solutions.
Under-bed boxes, storage bags for seasonal clothes, and over-the-door organisers all work wonders.
Built-in wardrobes or floor-to-ceiling shelving make the most of every inch without wasting space at the top.
Even simple hooks on the back of a door can keep bags or dressing gowns out of the way.
Don’t Overcrowd, Less Really Is More
It’s tempting to squeeze in lots of furniture, but in a small bedroom, breathing space is just as important.
A streamlined layout, clear floors, and only the essentials mean the room will feel bigger and calmer.
Add personality through prints, cushions and decor rather than unnecessary bulky items.
Add Personality Without The Clutter
Finally, remember that small doesn’t have to mean boring. Use wall art, textiles and accessories to bring in your style.
A cluster of quirky bedroom prints on a gallery wall, colourful bedding, or even a playful lampshade can make your small bedroom feel uniquely you.
The Takeaway
Decorating a small bedroom is all about maximising space while keeping things stylish and personal.
With floating shelves, high curtains, clever lighting, hidden storage solutions and a dash of personality through prints and accessories, you can turn even the tiniest of rooms into a cosy, functional sanctuary that feels bigger than it is.
Your bedroom walls should tell your story while still feeling like a restful retreat.
