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Pictures to hang over bed


25 Creative Ideas for Above the Bed Wall Decor

By

Sarah Lyon

Sarah Lyon

Sarah Lyon is a freelance writer and home decor enthusiast, who enjoys sharing good finds on home items. Since 2018, she has contributed to a variety of lifestyle publications, including Apartment Therapy and Architectural Digest.

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Published on 06/06/22

@brighteyesanddreamyspaces / Instagram

If you're wondering just exactly what to display over your bed to give your room a little extra pizzazz, we're here to help. Whether you can't get enough of open shelving, are looking to go the practical route, or have special photos to display, you'll surely gather plenty of styling inspiration from the 25 bedrooms featured below. Then go ahead and shop your home, the local secondhand store, or your favorite decor website to find that perfect piece that's calling your name and will look oh-so-fabulous in your bedroom. Given how much time you spend in this space, there's no reason not to make it feel special.

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(Image credit: Irene Gunter)

When it comes to above the bed decor ideas, there's a multitude of chic options to suit every taste, from adding a shelf to showcasing plants and art, to hanging an eclectic mix of mirrors or artwork.

The wall above a bed is so often overlooked, but it can be a canvas to elevate your bedroom scheme and create a strong focal point, drawing attention to a beautiful headboard, too.

These over the bed wall decor ideas are just some of our favorites – adding them to your wishlist of bedroom ideas can enrich your space.

Above bed decor ideas

Bedroom wall decor ideas are often centered around a feature wall, such as one with a chimney breast on it. However, using the wall over the bed to create a display can be hugely effective, especially in a space that has little architectural interest or, indeed, space.

'Above the bed decor ideas are traditional ways to bring a focal point to the bedroom, whether it be a statement wall color or wallpaper pattern, or a piece of art,' says Connor Prestwood, interior designer at home decor brand Dowsing & Reynolds . 

1. Create architectural interest above the bed

(Image credit: Little Greene)

If your bedroom ceiling is very high, your bedroom may feel a little cold and lofty. One way to fix this is to use decor above the bed to visually lower the ceiling. Here, it's achieved masterfully with wall panelling ideas. 

'Note the height of the headboard in relation to the wall panelling in this room,' says Homes & Gardens' Editor in Chief Lucy Searle. 'There is a purposeful and neat overlap that connects the bed, in the lower half of the room, with the wall above.'

2. Decorate above the bed with plants

(Image credit: Habitat)

Decorating with plants is a sure way to bring about well-being, so if you have the opportunity, why not grow them so that they cascade from a shelf above the bed. The best bedroom plants tend to be those that purify the air, as well as looking good. Picking ones that need little water will help keep them low maintenance, too.

3. Create focus with fabric

(Image credit: Tara Craig | Ensemblier)

Below, there's a tapestry that creates the most eye-catching bedroom accent wall idea; here, the above the bed wall decor is much more dramatic: fabric walling.  

'This type of wall decor is becoming more and more popular amongst interior designers,' says Lucy Searle. 'The colors can often be more vivid than those in wallpaper, there's a texture to fabric walling that makes you want to reach out and stroke it, and of course it creates an incredibly cozy aesthetic.'

4. Be clever with paint above the bed

(Image credit: Irene Gunter)

Bedroom paint ideas needn't be just about color. You can use paint tricks to create both layering and interest, and an enhanced space.

In this bedroom by interior designer Irene Gunter of Gunter & Co , the wall above the bed is split horizontally, with a deeper color nearer the headboard, and a lighter color above. The effect is to create a cozy feeling in the space, while exaggerating the height of the ceiling. The whole area above the bed is also framed with trim, heightening the interest.

5. Decorate above the bed with good-looking storage

(Image credit: ND Studios)

Overbed storage ideas don't traditionally conjure up the vision of a beautiful, calm, curated space. But done cleverly, they can be practical, decorative and disguised. 

In this bedroom by ND Studios , storage is recessed and decorated to match the panelling above the bed. The chevron pattern creates a subtly elegant feature wall that relies on little more than a small pot of gold paint and a steady hand.

(Image credit: Simon Bevan)

Wall mural ideas are an easy way to add drama to a space with little effort – and decorating with murals is a trend that's on the rise. 

'A marvellous mural has always been popular, but something extra striking and eye-catching is most definitely what we’re seeing more of in bedrooms,' says Lucy St George, of Rockett St George .  'Perfect for making a statement on the wall of your bed, bold metallics, florals or a marble effect will always add character to your sleeping space.'

7. Incorporate natural elements with botanical art

(Image credit: Kitesgrove)

You simply can't go wrong with a pretty botanical print. Their popularity dates all the way back to Victorian times and the look is truly timeless, perfect for country vibes and elegant gallery wall ideas.

'Artwork is a go-to for us at Sims Hilditch when planning what will hang above a bed in a bedroom,' says Louise Wicksteed, Sims Hilditch Design Director. 

'Be sure to choose something that mirrors your chosen aesthetic. For instance, if your home is in the country and you have opted for lots of natural materials in your interior, you might select an antique print of the local wildlife or scenery.'

8. Bounce light around the room with multiple mirrors

(Image credit: Future / Richard Powers)

Decorating with mirrors is a great idea for above the bed decor but why stick to one mirror when you can make the wall above the bed look arty – and bright – with multiple bedroom mirror ideas? This is a great idea for small or dark spaces.

Wayfair 's Resident Style Advisor, Nadia McCowan Hill, says: 'A popular option is to place an eclectic mix of mirrors above the bed, creating an eye-catching display that bounces light around your room. 

'Opt for designs with metallic edges to add a little extra shimmer and place them at different heights along the wall to create a truly stunning visual piece.'

9. Use craft buys to create a unique display

(Image credit: Future / Alecia Neo)

Conjure up a Kit Kemp vibe with intriguing finds displayed above the bed. These bohemian bedroom ideas are enduringly popular, adding color, texture and life to a space.

Nadia McCowan Hill comments: 'Arts and crafts have undergone a huge revival in the past year with crochet and knitwear becoming 2022’s must have items. 

'An easy way to incorporate this trend into your interiors is by hanging macrame designs above your bed, the natural materials add a grown-up boho vibe to the room and are a super-easy way to stay bang on trend. '

10. Put a shelf above the bed

(Image credit: Interior Fox )

'Consider taking the time to install a shelf along the wall behind your bed that will not only add to your style but maximize your storage space,' suggests Nadia McCowan Hill. 'Stick to a shelf in a natural hue and then really experiment with color, adding fun decor options, plants and prop up a few pieces of wall art along the space to finish off the look.'

Connor Prestwood agrees that bedroom bookshelf ideas can be practical as well as stylish, adding: 'A big thing at the moment is shelving above the bed. The diversity and freedom to move and swap things around when you fancy a change is really appealing and can save money in the long run. 

'Instead of buying a new large piece of art or completely re-wallpapering a wall, you can simply refresh the ornaments, books and art and restyle your shelf to fit in with your current mood.'

11. Use printed wallpaper to inject pattern and color

(Image credit: Graham & Brown)

If you're lucky enough to have a recess or arch above your bed, fill the space with an on-trend bedroom wallpaper idea. If you don't, you can always create a panelled wall and fill a square with a beautiful pattern.

Tropical, exotic birds, bold florals, and country botanicals are all in fashion, as are curvaceous graphics.

12. Hang a tapestry to up the cozy factor

(Image credit: Polly Wreford/Future PLC)

Biophilic room decor is known to be calming and restful, making it perfect for the bedroom – however, it's not always practical to hang or display plants above a bed, so choosing fabrics or artwork with a botanical motif is a great alternative to run of the mill headboards. 

A pretty length of fabric, a light rug or a tapestry in a traditional design are wonderful above bed decor ideas that can replace a headboard and make a room feel incredibly cocooning.

13. Turn to tribal art for an elegant global influence

(Image credit: Kitesgrove)

Tribal influences are popping up in bedrooms everywhere, and tribal art above the bed is a stylish way to introduce it.  

Sam Hood, Chief Creative Officer at Amara.com , says: 'Decorating with tribal prints is perfect for creating a unique space and adding visual interest to a neutral décor. 

'For a curated but relaxed tribal feel, use a combination of different patterns (as Kitesgrove has done with the cushions above) and colors to push your interior design limits to the max. If this trend is too vivacious for your home style, add a mix of textures such as rattan, to liven up your home ambience.'

14. Add plates or hats to pretty up the space

(Image credit: Future / Emma Lee)

A lovely trend that's been gaining pace is to display pretty hats or hang plates at different heights above your bed – or over a bedside table, as above. 

Interior designer Susie Atkinson says: 'In a more feminine room, I think it would be nice to put a collection of ceramics above the bed. For a masculine room, framed flags are very effective.'

Pair with stripes, a pop of color in the soft furnishings, and freshly picked flowers for a chic and contemporary country aesthetic.

15. Put upholstered panels above the bed for a hotel feel

(Image credit: Future / Paul Raeside)

'If you are a fan of hotel-style bedrooms and luxurious spaces – aren't we all? – fixing upholstered panels to the wall behind and above the bed is a decor idea that oozes elegance,' says H&G's Editor in Chief Lucy Searle.

'In a low-ceilinged room, running panels like this right up to the ceiling can make it seem taller, and a taller run of panels will look more balanced in a tall room – or you can keep the panelled area long and low to exaggerate the both room types' width.'

(Image credit: Original BTC)

If you're not into art, prints, wall hangings or bold wallpaper, a refined and chic way to add above bed decor is to make a feature of your bedroom wall lighting ideas. 

Whether it's an Art Deco-inspired sconce or a vintage fluted glass pendant or an industrial-style piece, wall lights can be practical as well as pretty.

Connor Prestwood, of Dowsing & Reynolds, says: 'We’re seeing statement beds with big, cushioned, curved headboards that cocoon you and make you feel safe while you sleep. This, paired with a couple of decorative side lights for your night time reading and relaxation rituals, is the perfect combination.'

And if you really want to make a statement with your above bed decor, choose a statement pendant, like the fantastic piece by Jonathan Adler above.

17. Choose a high-octane headboard

(Image credit: Simon Brown)

From bold floral or botanical printed fabric à la Kit Kemp to cocooning, fluted pieces, statement headboard ideas are an ultra-chic way to style the space above the bed.

Elliot James, of Elliot James interiors , says: 'Headboards are having a moment, the bigger the better. We love headboards that run the full width of the room behind the bed and the use of a contrasting wallpaper or paint above helps the headboard to really stand out. 

'Lighting around or inbuilt into headboards is also really trending at the moment, and our personal favourite is a backlit headboard that provides a striking and somewhat dramatic effect.  

'Full height headboards are also extremely popular, and using panelled stitching helps to give the bed grandeur and presence.'

And Martin Waller, of Andrew Martin , says statement headboards are essentially a form of artwork, adding: 'With the rise of the boutique hotel and its trending look in residential design, the headboard has become a brilliant focal point in bedroom decor. 

'Look to the Firmdale Hotels for inspiration on using brave color and pattern and have fun coordinating your headboard with a wallpaper or throw. Don’t be afraid to choose a more outlandish style as this only adds more character. See it as art above your bed.'

How do I decorate above my bed?

There are many ways to decorate above a bed. A favorite way is to hang a piece of art that you love – long, landscape-shaped pictures are ideal, or you can create this shape witha gallery wall. You can also decorate above a bed with mirrors, framed fabrics, tapestries and panels of fabrics. Or, you can choose more architectural over the bed ideas – from wainscoting to shelving. If you are looking for a simple above the bed decor idea, use a different color paint or wallpaper to that of the other three walls.

Should you decorate above a bed?

You should decorate above a bed if you have a low-profile or no headboard. A large sculptural headboard will mean that you do not to decorate over the bed, but if the wall is empty, hanging something with color, pattern and texture can really embellish the decor in a bedroom. 

Ruth Doherty is an experienced digital writer and editor specializing in interiors, travel and lifestyle. With 20 years of writing for national sites under her belt, she’s worked for the likes of Livingetc.com, Standard, Ideal Home, Stylist and Marie Claire as well as Homes & Gardens.

With contributions from

77 pictures for the bedroom - which pictures are better to hang over the bed

The bedroom is the most intimate and cozy place in the house. In such a room you want to look only at pleasant things. Which picture is better to choose for the bedroom? Let's take a look at the new article!

Contents

  1. Favorite place
  2. What pictures to hang in the bedroom on the wall
  3. Pictures for the bedroom in a classic style
  4. Pictures for the bedroom for a couple
  5. Feng Shui Bedroom Paintings
  6. Bedroom Paintings by Color
  7. Bedroom Paintings by Shape and Size
  8. Bedroom Paintings by Subject
  9. Where to Hang Feng Shui Paintings in the Bedroom
  10. What to Avoid
    11. What picture to hang in the bedroom headboard
  11. Pictures in the bedroom by location
  12. Examples of beautiful interior paintings for the bedroom with photos

Favorite place

As I said, the bedroom is the very room in the house where we relax , a place where we want to find peace and comfort. When choosing an interior for the bedroom, think about the paintings that you want to hang there.

They should carry peace and tranquility, but at the same time, match the spirit of your room, emphasize its style and features of the owner of the apartment.

To find out where it is better to hang a picture in the bedroom, how to do it according to Feng Shui and what are the basic rules, read this article to the end, look at the photos and get inspired to create a special atmosphere in your bedroom.

What pictures to hang on the wall in the bedroom

Bedroom interior paintings can be completely different: classic oil painting, watercolor sketches, acrylic interior paintings, as well as various photo posters, posters, modular paintings. Such a modular composition, consisting of several parts, can be either printed on photographic paper or painted on canvas. But keep in mind that voluminous modular paintings will draw all the attention to themselves and can become the main focus in the bedroom.

Pictures in the bedroom can simply be hung on the wall, or attached to the wall at the head of the bed. There are also some rules that it is not recommended to hang certain paintings in the bedroom, or vice versa, they will suit you:

  1. Do not place paintings in the bedroom if they do not match your character.
  2. Pay attention to the combination of the picture with the overall interior design of the room.
  3. Do not choose portraits of a third person if you share a bedroom with another person, and even more so, do not put pictures and photographs of deceased relatives.
  4. If you choose paintings for the bedroom of a man and a woman, then give preference to passionate subjects, or symbols of love, such as scarlet roses.
  5. A perfectly matched picture for the bedroom is a picture matched by color.
  6. Do not hang gloomy and sad pictures.
  7. Do not mix styles. If the room is decorated in Provence style, it is unlikely that avant-garde art nouveau painting will look beautiful there.

As you can see, there are a lot of options, so I propose to consider each one separately using examples.

Classic style bedroom paintings

Classic style interiors are ideal for oil paintings in a golden wood frame. By itself, the classical style embodies luxury, nobility, even some sophistication. Therefore, the choice of picture must be approached properly.

Reproductions of famous artists, such as the Impressionists, will look very nice. Designing such an interior, of course, will be a bit of a costly task, because the classic style is famous for the nobility of its materials, conciseness and the absence of unnecessary details in the interior.

The color palette of such a bedroom is also usually calmer. Therefore, it is worth giving preference to paintings painted in pastel colors. When choosing paintings for a classic interior, you need to be very attentive not only to the general style, but also to other decorative details: figurines, carpets, curtains, ottomans, pillows.

There is no room for asymmetry in a classic interior, everything should have strict geometry. Therefore, when prophesying a picture over some object, or a bed, make sure that it hangs strictly in the center.

Classical style - classical works. It will be just fine if you find reproductions of paintings by Renoir, Van Gogh, Monet and other famous artists. Choose picturesque landscapes, and if you have a talent for drawing, then create the work yourself - this will be very symbolic.

Choose a frame for such a picture from natural wood, and if you want to hang several pictures, decorate them in the same style. So your bedroom will become even cozier and more ideal.

Bedroom paintings for couples

Family bedroom is the unity of two people. Double paintings and various diptychs, images of paired animals and so on will look very good.

In principle, here, in the same way, you must first of all proceed from the style of your room, its color and other interior items. Having decided on the style, you can choose a picture in several directions:

  1. Love theme - ideal for a couple.
  2. A poster featuring love couples from classic movies.
  3. Photos of you and your significant other, capturing a moment where you are together and happy.

Feng Shui paintings for the bedroom

Many people believe that Feng Shui paintings should be hung in the bedroom. This method will help you bring harmony to your bedroom and make the atmosphere more conducive. When choosing paintings according to this principle, several rules should also be distinguished:

  1. Don't hang a painting in a bedroom that shows one person.
  2. To strengthen family relationships, hang a picture of a beautiful house.
  3. Peonies, orchids, poppies are perfect for a couple's bedroom.
  4. If you are buying a hand-painted painting, try to find out why it is being sold. You do not need bad energy in the house.
  5. Hang up posters and photos with children if you want to have offspring soon.
  6. Do not hang pictures with the water element.
  7. Always frame your pictures beautifully.

According to Feng Shui, it is necessary to divide the total space of the room into separate small zones, therefore, be guided by this when you select a picture in each of them. Place pictures on only one wall and don't get too carried away with the number of pictures. The plot of all paintings should be united by one theme, but try to avoid additional decorations - figurines, caskets and other things.

Bedroom paintings by color

Pay attention to the style and proceed from its features.

A painting in harmony with the color of the bedroom will help create an atmosphere of warmth and comfort, especially if you match it with bed linen, curtains, decorative pillows.

If you choose contrasting paintings, do not overdo it with color, otherwise it will be difficult for you to relax your eyes and relax in such an environment.

Bedroom paintings by shape and size

Choose medium to large size paintings for your bedroom that will make your room look bigger and more spacious.

Several paintings of different sizes should be aligned along the bottom edge and hung at eye level so as not to visually distort the space.

One large picture will look great and will become an attractive accent of your home.

In terms of shape, give preference to square and rectangular paintings, but if round and oval objects, such as a mirror, are already hanging in the bedroom, then you can safely choose a less traditional version of the form.

Paintings for the bedroom according to the plot

The plot is also a very important criterion for choosing a painting for the bedroom. It should be beautiful and you should like it.

Pictures of horses, for example, symbolize energy and determination. Wild animals and birds exude aggressive energy, so it is not advisable to use them in the bedroom.

Beautiful landscapes in soothing colors carry favorable energy and charge you with good emotions. As, however, and still lifes, especially with juicy fruits - symbols of summer and warmth.

Pictures of angels symbolize peace and order, such pictures should be hung if you want to find some inner harmony and peace.

Water for the bedroom is a negative and undesirable plot, although if you really want to, you can hang a picture, but only with a calm and transparent water element.

Where to hang pictures in the bedroom according to Feng Shui

Place pictures in the bedroom above the bed. This will visually highlight the center of your room, unless your headboard is too high.

If you want to place a picture on the wall opposite your bed, be guided by the goal you want to achieve with the picture - to relax or cheer up when looking at the picture.

If you have bedside tables on both sides of the bed, you can also hang pictures above them. But then they should be in the same style and, of course, on both sides.

You can also place paintings from the side wall, but in the same way, hang it symmetrically, and if there are several, then exactly along one lower line.

What to avoid

From panels with dried flowers, images of insects, abstract paintings, symbols and signs, the meaning of which you do not know, for example, hieroglyphs.

What picture to hang in the bedroom at the head of the bed

Traditionally, the most favorable pictures for the head of the bed are pictures depicting flowers, as well as what the owners of the room would like to achieve or desire.

Pictures depicting the water element, misfortunes and dead people, as well as wild animals will bring bad energy.

There are also restrictions on color. According to Feng Shui, paintings in natural and soothing colors and shades are suitable for the bedroom: yellow, blue, brown.

In general, this ancient teaching involves a long and conscious choice of paintings for your home. Therefore, do not rush and immediately buy the first picture you like. It is better to look at different options and think about how this or that thing will look in your home. By the way, one of the main principles of Feng Shui is that you like the picture, and, looking at it, you experience only positive emotions.

Pictures in the bedroom by location

As I wrote above, according to Feng Shui, pictures in the bedroom are best placed on one wall. If you place them on the sides of the bed, then these should be paired paintings. At the head, if it is not high - strictly in the center.

If you place near the adjacent walls, you can hang a few paintings, as long as they are all symmetrical to other objects in the room.

It is also better to hang a picture in front of the bed symmetrically to it and at eye level when you are sitting in bed.

Examples of beautiful interior paintings for the bedroom with photos

As you already understood, it is very easy to update or add to the design of your bedroom, especially with the help of paintings. I have collected for you a selection of different interiors with paintings so that you can be inspired by them and choose something that is right for you!