What colors are best for a bedroom?

Calming, muted colors promote sleep: soft blues, greens, warm neutrals, and gentle lavenders are popular choices. Avoid overly stimulating colors like bright reds or neons. Cool colors can make a room feel larger; warm colors feel cozier. Consider your climate—cooler colors suit warm climates, warmer tones suit cold climates. Whatever you choose, keep it soft and restful.

How do I arrange furniture in a small bedroom?

Start with the bed—position it on the longest wall or floating in the room if that works better. Choose appropriate-scale furniture; skip the king bed if it leaves no room for walking. Use wall-mounted nightstands and lights. Consider a tall, narrow dresser instead of a wide one. Eliminate any non-essential furniture. Under-bed storage can compensate for limited closet space.

Should I have a TV in the bedroom?

This is personal preference, but sleep experts generally advise against it—screens can interfere with sleep quality, and the bedroom is best kept as a sleep sanctuary. If you do want a TV, consider a lift cabinet that hides it when not in use, or mount it in a position where it doesn't dominate the room. Avoid watching in bed right before sleep.

What size rug should go under a bed?

A bedroom rug should extend at least 2-3 feet beyond the bed on the sides and bottom so your feet land on softness when getting out of bed. For a queen bed, an 8x10 rug works well; for a king, consider 9x12. Alternatively, use two smaller runners on each side of the bed. The rug should feel generous, not cramped.

Room Type

Bedroom Design Ideas

The bedroom is your personal sanctuary—a private retreat designed for rest, rejuvenation, and intimacy. More than just a place to sleep, the bedroom should promote relaxation, support healthy sleep habits, and reflect your personal style. Whether minimal or luxurious, the best bedrooms balance comfort with aesthetics to create spaces you look forward to retreating to each day.

About Bedroom Design

Bedrooms serve primarily for sleep and rest, but also function as spaces for dressing, reading, intimacy, and personal retreat. The design should prioritize sleep quality while accommodating daily routines like getting dressed and winding down.

Design Considerations

Position bed as the focal point
Ensure adequate task lighting for reading
Plan for blackout options for sleep
Include sufficient storage for clothing
Create symmetry for visual calm
Choose calming color palettes
Consider acoustic privacy
Plan for morning and evening routines

Common Challenges

Creating a restful atmosphere for sleep
Maximizing storage in limited space
Balancing multiple functions (sleep, dress, work)
Managing light for both day and night
Fitting essential furniture in small rooms
Temperature and climate control
Minimizing clutter for calm
Accommodating partners with different preferences

Layout Tips

Position bed away from the door but with view of entry
Leave 2-3 feet on each side for nightstands and walking
Center bed on the largest wall or focal point
Avoid placing bed under windows if possible
Ensure dresser has clearance for drawers
Consider traffic flow for daily routines

Best Styles for Bedroom

Explore design styles that work exceptionally well for bedrooms.

Scandinavian BedroomPerfect Match

Transitional BedroomPerfect Match

Japandi BedroomPerfect Match

Coastal Grandmother BedroomPerfect Match

Warm Minimalist BedroomPerfect Match

Modern BedroomPopular Choice

Transitional BedroomPopular Choice

Scandinavian BedroomPopular Choice

Traditional BedroomPopular Choice

Coastal BedroomPopular Choice

Bedroom Furniture Guide

Essential Furniture

Bed with quality mattress
Nightstands (one or two)
Dresser or chest of drawers
Bedside lamps or lighting
Window treatments

Optional Additions

Bench at foot of bed
Armchair or reading chair
Desk or vanity
Full-length mirror
TV and media console
Area rug

Lighting Needs

Ambient overhead lighting (with dimmer)
Task lighting on nightstands
Natural light with blackout options
Closet lighting
Optional: accent or decorative lighting

Storage Solutions

Closet space for hanging clothes
Drawer storage for folded items
Nightstand storage for essentials
Under-bed storage (if space is tight)
Seasonal item storage

Size Considerations

Small Bedroom

In small bedrooms (under 100 sq ft), prioritize the bed and essential nightstands. Use wall-mounted lights to save nightstand space. Consider a headboard with built-in storage. Skip the bench and armchair. Use vertical storage and under-bed options. Mirrors expand the visual space.

Medium Bedroom

Medium bedrooms (100-200 sq ft) can include a full bed setup, dresser, and possibly a small seating area or desk. A bench at the foot of the bed works well. Add an area rug to define the bed zone.

Large Bedroom

Large bedrooms (200+ sq ft) can create distinct zones: sleeping area, sitting area, dressing area. Include a proper reading chair, bench, and possibly a desk or vanity. Use area rugs to define zones within the larger space.

Related Room Types

Explore other room types with similar design considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions

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