12 Small Bedroom Ideas to Make the Most Out of It
Let’s face it - working with a small bedroom can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to feel like you're stuck in a shoebox. With some clever tricks and a little creativity, you can make even the tiniest spaces feel spacious and functional.
In this article, we explore 12 bedroom ideas that will help you make the most out of your space, turning it into a stylish and cozy sanctuary.
Small bedroom ideas
1. Dual-purpose nightstands
You may think your nightstand is just for holding your alarm clock and maybe a book or two, but it can be so much more! Choosing a nightstand that pulls double duty is key in a small bedroom.
Think about choosing a nightstand that functions as something else too, like a mini-desk or vanity. A fold-out tabletop can give you extra space to store essentials, but neatly tucks away when you don’t need it. Pair the nightstand with a chair or mirror and you’ve got a functional nightstand for grooming.
You can also consider getting a nightstand that has drawers or shelves. This adds extra storage space to your room, giving you a place to tuck away all those little items that tend to clutter up surfaces.
In a small space, @cherriepei.id makes clever use of the space by turning the nightstand into a vanity. Pictured: The Adams Bed.
@kathrynchristi’s nightstand also doubles up as a storage for her kids’ toys - with ample space for a woven basket and some books. Pictured: The Dawson Bed.
2. Headboards that do double duty
If you thought headboards were just for propping up your pillows, think again. Some headboards come with added features that can free up room elsewhere.
Consider a headboard that comes with built-in nightstands or shelves. These headboards offer a seamless solution that saves precious floor space and are great for keeping things minimalist while still functional!
The Claude Performance Fabric Bed in @bria.via’s cozy bedroom features a floating nightstand and headrests.
Save space with a nightstand that floats off the ground - giving you maximum functionality and space. Picture credits: @veyebs
3. Small beds that are big on style
When it comes to furnishing a small bedroom, the bed is typically the largest piece of furniture in the room. While it’s tempting to go big and luxurious, choosing a smaller bed can make a huge difference in maximizing your available space.
Downsizing your bed doesn’t mean compromising on comfort or style - it simply means being more strategic with your room layout.
Instead of getting a queen-sized bed, a full bed is a great middle ground - big enough for solo sleepers who like extra space but small enough to fit comfortably in tighter layouts. It's also an excellent option for teenagers or couples in very small apartments who need to balance comfort with available room.
The Seb Full Bed with a Drawer and Bench is great for small bedrooms - perfectly cozy without compromising on style.
The Seb Bed features a solid acacia wood headboard with a rustic finish for a warm feel.
4. Maximize space with built-in storage beds
Storage beds are a game-changer for small bedrooms. They provide much-needed space to stow away everything from bedding and clothes to books and personal items.
When selecting a storage bed for your small bedroom, consider how much storage you need and the available space. If your bedroom layout is tight, a bed with side drawers might not be the best option if they will bump into other furniture. In that case, opt for a bed with gas-lift storage mechanism since they use vertical space without requiring extra clearance.
The Dalton Storage Bed features built-in drawers that allow you to store bulky bedding and clothing. Picture credits: @lindseypedey
The Dawson Storage Bed features a gas-lift mechanism that makes it easy to lift up your bed to store items.
5. Use mirrors to create the illusion of space
When it comes to small bedroom ideas, mirrors are your best friend. They reflect light and open up the room, making it feel larger than it really is.
Opt for large wall mirrors or mirrored furniture. The bigger the mirror, the more light it bounces around, giving the illusion of a larger space. You can even place a full-length mirror against the wall to stretch the room visually.
Place mirrors opposite windows to allow them to reflect natural light, brightening up the room and creating a more open feel. You can also hang a mirror behind your door to maximize floor space.
Large mirrors like the Aria Arch Floor Mirror are a great addition to your space to create the illusion of space, like in @sophiachang’s home. Also pictured: The Guin Round Side Table.
The Nadine Wall Mirror features gold trimming in an antique finish gives a mid-century modern look when paired with the Dawson Leather Bed.
6. Don’t leave out the corners
Corners often go underutilized, but with strategic planning and furniture placement, they can become valuable storage and functional areas.
Corner shelves, wardrobes, or desks are great ways to make use of the dead space. They provide you with more storage and create a functional corner out of an otherwise wasted space.
You can also place small ottomans or chairs in a corner to create a seating nook. This can serve as a quiet reading corner or a spot to relax, adding functionality and style to the bedroom.
@conniecyang turns the corner of her bedroom into a functional space for dressing up with the Kit Bouclé Stool and Miles Mirror.
@karajewelll creates a cozy reading spot in the corner of her bedroom with the Ingrid Sherpa Chair.
Explore Small Bedroom Furniture for Your Home
7. Opt for sliding doors
Sliding doors are an excellent strategy in small bedrooms thanks to their space-saving design. Unlike swinging doors that require clearance for opening, sliding doors glide along a track, maximizing the usable floor space in a small bedroom.
Consider getting closets or built-in wardrobes with sliding doors. You can even install mirrors on these sliding doors to serve a dual purpose - providing access to the closet while acting as full-length mirrors.
8. Install hanging pendant lights or sconces
Instead of table lamps, consider hanging pendant lights or installing wall-mounted sconces. These lighting options eliminate the need for lamps and free up valuable surface space.
They also don’t take up any floor space, which is especially useful in small bedrooms where every piece of furniture should be chosen with functionality in mind.
9. Opt for curves over straight lines
Opting for curves over straight lines in a small bedroom is a design strategy that can enhance the visual flow, create a sense of softness, and maximize the perception of space.
Curved furniture tends to have softer edges and contours. This can contribute to improved traffic flow within the bedroom, especially in tight spaces where sharp corners may obstruct movement.
Consider a bed with a curved or upholstered headboard to soften the look of the bed while eliminating the harsh lines that can make a small bedroom feel confined. Other rounded pieces you can add to your bedroom include rounded nightstands, circular ottomans, and even oval rugs.
The Rochelle Performance Bouclé Bed features a curved headboard to soften the overall look in the bedroom. Picture credits: @kerrieann_jones
The Crescent 1-Drawer Nightstand creates a beautiful contrast with its curved frame. Picture credits: @ournestonpowell
10. Allow natural light in
In a small bedroom where space is limited, ample natural light can help counteract the potential for a cramped or confined atmosphere, creating a more airy and inviting environment.
Use sheer curtains or blinds that allow natural light to filter through during the day. You can layer blackout curtains to ensure you still maintain privacy without blocking sunlight. Also, arrange furniture in a way that doesn't obstruct the windows and keep windowsills clear of objects.
Recommended read: How to Choose Curtains for Your Bedroom and Living Room
@thebluewrenreno opts for sheer curtains in the bedroom to allow ample natural sunlight. Pictured: The Dawson Bed.
@our.peachy.days lets ample light into the bedroom to brighten up the space. Pictured: The Joseph Bouclé Bed, Mika Side Table, and Edgar Duo Bulb Table Lamp.
11. Keep things light and airy with color choices
Color plays a major role in how spacious a room feels. Light and airy hues can do wonders for making a small bedroom appear larger.
Choosing soft neutrals, pastels, or light shades like white, cream, or light gray will make your space feel airy and open. They help reflect light, further enhancing the illusion of space.
While dark, moody colors may feel cozy, they can also make your small bedroom feel even smaller. If you love dark tones, try incorporating them in accents or accessories, but keep your main palette light.
12. Get creative with vertical storage solutions
When floor space is limited, look up! Using your walls for storage frees up valuable space and adds style. Floating shelves are great for displaying decor, books, or even essentials like skincare products. They keep things off the floor and add visual interest to the walls.
Hooks, pegboards, and wall-mounted organizers can hold everything from clothes to jewelry to office supplies, ensuring every inch of space is used wisely.
Make the most out of your small bedroom
Transforming a small bedroom into a stylish and comfortable retreat is all about strategic planning and creativity. By implementing these ideas for your small bedroom, you can optimize your space, making it a haven that reflects your style and offers ultimate comfort.
