8 Small Bedroom Design Ideas & Tricks

Dreaming of a Pinterest-worthy bedroom but feeling limited by your square meterage? You're not alone. Small bedrooms are a reality for many city dwellers — but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style or comfort. With a little creativity and these eight design hacks, you can transform your compact space into a beautiful, functional and dreamy space.

This guide will show you how to work with your space, proving that even the smallest area can be the foundation for a restful bedroom.

8 IDEAS FOR DECORATING SMALL BEDROOMS

1. MAXIMISE VERTICAL SPACE

Don't let your walls go to waste! Utilise the vertical space in your bedroom to its full potential. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Floating shelves: This is a great way to add storage without wasting valuable floor space. You can use shelves to store books, trinkets, plants or necessities hidden in baskets.
• Bookshelves or cabinets: These are perfect for storing clothes, bed linen and other bedroom essentials. To reduce visual clutter, choose closed-door cabinets that can easily hide mess.
• Hooks: Don’t let your clothes, accessories and towels live on the floor — designate a spot for all your essentials on wall hooks.

2. EMBRACE LIGHT COLOURS AND TEXTURES

Light colours are your best friend when it comes to making a small space feel larger. Crisp white, soothing grey and light beige reflect light beautifully, creating the illusion of spaciousness.

If you own your home (or have relaxed landlords), paint your walls and ceiling a bright shade. This will instantly open up the room and make it feel airy and inviting.

For a renter-friendly solution, light-coloured bedding is a great way to go. Our 1200 Thread Count Egyptian Cotton Quilt Cover Set in White is a classic option, or opt for our 100% French Flax Linen Quilt Cover Set in Natural for a breezy feel.

3. DECLUTTER AND ORGANISE

Clutter is the enemy of a small space. In the words of Marie Kondo, if it doesn’t spark joy, it’s time to move on.

Organise your belongings according to how often you use them. Invest in storage baskets or boxes to keep often-used items out of sight but easily accessible. Utilise under-bed storage for your seasonal or less-used items like clothing or luggage. 

Other storage solutions for small bedrooms include over-the-door hooks, bedside tables with drawers and storage ottomans.

4. STICK TO THE ESSENTIALS

Remember, the primary function of your bedroom is sleep. Don’t store more in your bedroom than you absolutely need to. The only true necessities are a bed, nightstands, lights and clothing storage. Remove clunky and distracting pieces like electronics and focus on creating a calming and clutter-free space dedicated to rest and rejuvenation.

5. LET THE LIGHT IN

Natural light is a powerful tool for making a small bedroom feel larger and more inviting. Here are some tips to maximise natural light in your bedroom:

• Keep windows clear: Avoid using heavy curtains or blinds that block out the light. Opt for sheer curtains or blinds that allow natural light to filter through.
• Clean your windows regularly: Dirty windows can reduce the amount of natural light that gets into your room. Make sure to clean them regularly to let the sunshine do its thing.
• Strategically place mirrors: Mirrors can reflect light and make the space feel larger. Place them opposite windows or in other areas where they can capture natural light.

6. OPT FOR SMART FURNITURE

Invest in furniture that serves multiple purposes. Here are some multi-functional pieces for small bedrooms:

• Storage ottoman: Doubles as a footrest and storage for blankets, pillows, etc.
• Foldable desk: Transforms into a workspace and disappears when not in use.
• Bunk beds: Utilise vertical space efficiently. They’re ideal for children's or guest rooms.
• Nesting tables: Offer multiple surfaces and can be tucked away when not needed.
• Wall-mounted shelves: Maximise space and keep frequently used items within reach.

7. CREATE A FOCAL POINT

Draw the eye to a specific area in your room to create a sense of balance and interest. This could be a rug, a piece of art or a unique lamp. Just don’t overwhelm the space with too many patterns, colours and textures! 

A statement bed head can be a great way to add personality and style to your small bedroom. Choose a piece that complements the overall design and colour scheme without being overly ornate and clunky.

8. PRIORITISE COMFORT AND QUALITY

Maximising space is essential in small bedrooms, but that doesn’t mean comfort and quality should be sacrificed. Here's how to keep the focus on comfort in your small space:

• Invest in a good mattress: Your mattress is the foundation of good sleep, so choose one that provides proper support and aligns with your sleeping preferences.
• Choose comfortable bedding: Invest in high-quality sheets and quilts made from natural materials like down, linen, cotton, silk and bamboo. 
• Buy well-made furniture: Choose furniture pieces built to last, using sturdy materials and solid construction. 
• Create a relaxing vibe: Incorporate elements that promote relaxation, such as soft lighting, calming scents and soothing colours. 

SMALL BEDROOMS REIMAGINED 

Turn cramped to curated. With these design tricks, transforming your bedroom into an inviting space is easy. Embrace the opportunity to get creative — use vertical space, embrace light and choose multi-functional pieces that still stay true to your personal style.