9 impactful ideas for decorating small bedrooms

Whether your small bedroom is compact, tiny, or simply a box, there are plenty of clever decorating ideas you can deploy to add impact and make the most of your space. From smart storage ideas to create extra room to decorative homeware additions, here are nine ideas to help you makeover your small bedroom and create a space you can properly enjoy.

1. Add an accent chair

It might seem counter-intuitive to take up space with decorative furniture, but accent chairs have a place in small bedrooms too. They’re ideal for filling awkwardly shaped corners or sitting under the sloped ceilings of loft bedrooms. Although they might not be as practical as storage, a chair styled with a cushion or throw will add texture and warmth.

2. Hang wall-mounted shelving

When it comes to space-saving bedroom ideas, keeping your floor free from clutter is key. In small bedrooms, it’s a good idea to use wall space for storage where possible. Find shelving that fits with your bedroom’s theme or open shelves so you can see your plants or books. Look for a style with hooks so you can hang up your bags and scarves and maximise the space underfoot.

3. Add texture with bedding

When searching for ideas to decorate your small bedroom, don’t overlook your bedding. As well as serving a practical purpose, bed linen, blankets, and cushions that match your theme can be layered to add colour and print to your bedroom. Add an inviting layer of warmth and texture with a quilted bedspread at the foot of your bed, plus scatter cushions in plain and patterned fabrics for a comfy finish.

4. Use a side table with storage

Whether it’s to charge your phone or play host to the latest title on their reading list, most people will need some kind of furniture piece at their bedside. Every inch of space needs to be maximised in small bedrooms, so when you’re looking for a bedside table, make sure you choose a style with extra storage. Cupboards or drawers will conceal the things you need easy access to but don’t have room to store on top.

5. Decorate with wall art

If you’re reluctant to paint your walls, add interest with wall art instead. Carefully select pieces that work together with the exisiting colour in your room. Our suggestion? Framed patchwork wall art to add texture and decoration without dominating the space. If you’re after something more impactful, choose a handful of prints and hang them together to create a gallery style wall.

6. Use multi-functional furniture

The main problem when decorating a small room is finding a place for all your stuff. Enter, the ottoman. Part seating, part storage, this multi-functional piece is perfect for use in a small bedroom, placed at the end of your bed or along a short wall. It opens to reveal a large box for extra storage, while the fabric lid adds a pop of pattern and an extra place to sit.

7. Curate a capsule wardrobe

We don’t wear all of our clothing all year round. The pieces we use change from season to season, so one idea to keep your small bedroom in order is to create a capsule wardrobe. To do this, fill your wardrobe with an edit of go-to pieces each season, then fold the rest away into storage baskets and bags that can be kept on a wardrobe or shelf. Add extra storage hooks to the back of your bedroom door for accessories.

8. Create space with a mirror

An easy way to make your small bedroom feel bigger is to hang a mirror near a source of natural light. Not only will this help to make the room feel brighter, but the mirror’s reflection will also create a sense of space. This is especially important in tiny box rooms, where close walls can have a claustrophobic feel. As well as being useful, a wall mirror will add a decorative touch.

9. Add ambient lighting

Make your small bedroom brighter with extra bedroom lighting. Use your bedside table to house a table lamp beside your bed, or use the area above to install wall lights. If you’re renting, or you don’t want to damage your walls, go for a slim floor light that can stand neatly in a corner or awkward space.