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Small room decorating tips


45 Small Bedroom Decorating Ideas From Designers

1

Pile Up Book on the floor

Nicholas Obeid

Stack up some coffee table books to use as a skinny side table. All you need to fit is a stylish nightlight and mood-setting candle, as shown in this small bedroom designed by Nicholas Obeid.

2

Opt for a Trundle

Ngoc Minh Ngo

Designer David Kaihoi transformed this one-bedroom apartment into a family home. This little trundle bed tucks right back under the bed when it isn't in use, "first thing in the morning," says Kaihoi. And they use that windowsill as a bedside table.

3

Duck Into Corners

paul raeside

A corner seating nook for lounging, reading, and chatting is a bonus in any bedroom, especially in a tiny one! Here, designer Andrew Flesher recovered a pair of vintage Ward Bennett Scissor chairs in a Marimekko print for a fun pop of color. The low silhouette makes them perfect for a sloped ceiling corner.

4

Practice Restraint

Amelia Stanwix

Sometimes all it takes is a modern light fixture and offbeat paint color to perfect a small bedroom. An old bedside table, jute rug, and color-block linen bedding turn this bedroom into a moody, earthy sanctuary by Fiona Lynch.

5

Use Lucite

Nicole Franzen

Lucite is your best friend in small spaces. This bedroom in Kristin Fine's Connecticut farmhouse is another gorgeous example of simple but transformative styling. Fine opted for a lucite side table for a hint of modernity that doesn't make the room feel too cramped.

6

Build Narrow Custom Storage

Corinne Mathern Design

If you don't have a closet, but you do have a clothing collection, stay organized and polished with custom wall built-ins that store everything behind closed doors. In this bedroom design by Corinne Mathern, the built-ins provide extensive storage and accommodate the irregular ceiling structure. They're also less deep than your typical dresser and armoire—a win for small bedrooms.

7

Squeeze In a Desk

Robert Peterson / Rustic White I

In a small bedroom, there is no wall space to spare, so don't be afraid to put your bed beneath the window. Vern Vip opted for bold curtains to ensure style and sleep-ins. A Cambria quartz desktop suits the sophisticated mood, but “doesn’t ever require resealing, reconditioning, or polishing,” says Yip. Plus, it doubles the bedroom's use-case as a home office.

8

Pay Attention to Scale

Heidi Caillier Design

Take note of this bedroom designed by Heidi Caillier, where great big windows and high ceilings are maxed out by hanging the long curtains all the way at the top. In a small bedroom, have fun with color, shape, and prints, but pay close attention to scale.

9

Repurpose an Unexpected "Room"

Leanne Ford Interiors

If you're looking for out-of-the-box ideas on how to carve out a small guest room out of basically nothing, look no further than this bedroom design by Leanne Ford Interiors. Contemporary striped linens match the beige-painted walls and the paper pendant brings adds just a touch of intrigue to this small sleeping nook, which looks like it was once a sunroom.

10

Get Matchy-Matchy (Playfully)

Thijs de Leeuw/Space Content/Living Inside

This small room designed by Atelier ND is exploding with fun colors. The objective was to use a pretty floral wallpaper, but to dress it down with items that made it look bold and modern rather than precious and dainty. The electric orange blinds, dark green carpet, yellow side table, and purple plaid bedspread bring an edgy midcentury feel that gets the job done.

11

Or, Get Matchy-Matchy (Seriously)

Stephen Kent Johnson for Ashe Leandro

As far as high-impact decorating ideas go for small bedrooms, it doesn't get cooler than this: Ashe Leandro used the same print for the wallpaper (which extends up to the ceiling), curtains, bedding, and even the lampshade.

12

Paint Exposed Materials White

Stephen Kent Johnson

To center a headboard on the wall, designer Shawn Henderson closed up a decorative fireplace in this pint-sized but perfect NYC bedroom. A coat of white paint helps the exposed brick wall blend in and feel much less heavy.

13

Opt for High-Contrast Colors

Brie Williams

Make it a jewel box bursting with colors and patterns. This striking red nailhead bed frame can be tame and paired with classic neutrals, or it can be dressed up with fun accessories and contrasting painting colors, as designer Ariene Bethea displays here.

14

Use All Available Surface Space

Fantastic Frank

One of the biggest challenges in a small bedroom is finding places to put all your stuff since the bed takes up most of the room. Be resourceful! Even a windowsill can provide extra storage space for decor, lighting, and other essentials when there's no room for an extra table.

15

Install Sconces

TREVOR TONDRO

This pint-sized bedroom designed by J. P. Horton is flexing a few small space design secrets. First, the sconces, which don't take up any surface space since they're wall mounted, and second, the side chair, which can be pulled up as a bedside table when need be.

16

Use a Day Bed

House Beautiful

Add a daybed and watch your bedroom double in size. If you don't have a designated guest room, this could also come in handy in your family room or home office that pulls double-duty when friends are in town.

17

Lean a Mirror

Hecker Guthrie

Now here's a bedroom that knows how to set a mood. With plush velvet seating, dark wood paneled walls, and classic landscape photos, this bedroom designed by Hecker Guthrie is a beautiful blend of classic and modern style. To make the room feel larger, lean a modern mirror against the wall, as done here.

18

Ditch the Headboard

Kevin Scott

Less is more, particularly in a small bedroom. Despite a simple, soft color scheme and bare decorating approach in this minimalist bedroom by Studio DIAA no, it projects a strong sense of personal style and easy living. That's thanks to the polished materials and cohesive look.

19

Embrace Coziness With Dark Wallpaper

Heidi Caillier Design

Heidi Caillier embraces the smaller size with inky grasscloth wallpaper. While any dark paint color could create a similar impact, the striated wallpaper brings even more texture—perfect for a cozy bedroom.

20

Section It Off

Fantastic Frank

Embrace the tininess of a space and make it extra intimate and cozy with a sheer curtain around the bed. Jazz up the walls with paint, artwork, or wallpaper to bring in personality without taking up space.

21

Accomodate the Layout

HB

Each item is carefully chosen to work within this small space. For example, the narrow bedroom table fits into the little nook perfectly, and since it's on the slimmer side, they made sure the two-tiered table on the other side of the bed offered extra surface space. Then, they went vertical with a gallery wall to draw the eye up.

22

Choose a Bold Bed

Bjorn Wallander

Designed by Balsamo Antiques and Interior Design, this bedroom proves that even if your space is mostly neutral, you can add character—and coziness—thanks to textures, unique combos, and sculptural silhouettes. This one is also wonderfully dark and moody for late sleep-ins. And don't let a smaller space stop you from choosing larger furniture. This statement four-poster bed is takes up most of the room, and that's actually a great thing.

23

Keep It Colorful

ALISON GOOTEE

Keep it tailored but unique with fewer and bolder pieces. From the vibrant red bedding to the mod bedframe and graphic lamp, this bedroom designed by Anthony Baratta feels both crisp and deliberate, but there's still tons of personality packed in. Each piece also nods back to the brilliant abstract painting above the bed.

24

Tuck Your Bed Away

Fantastic Frank

If you live in a studio or need or use your bedroom for more than just sleeping, consider a DIY trundle bed or a solid platform with a retractable bed under it. In this space, the wooden platform makes room for a sofa so there's somewhere to sit instead of the bed. It's kind of like a Murphy bed but easier to create yourself.

25

Channel a Ship

Elizabeth Georgantas

New England coastal charm meets rustic design with plenty of warm tones, antique pieces, and exposed beams painted white in this guest bedroom designed by Elizabeth Georgantas. Pro tip: Elevate under-the-bed storage with vintage suitcases.

26

Cozy Up to a Corner

© Rustic White Photography

Brian Patrick Flynn turned this teeny-tiny bedroom into a whole wide world with rich wallpaper, dimensional wall decor, and perfectly proportioned furniture. The pops of red add a fun surprise and encourage us to mix primary colors.

27

Pile on the Patterns

Simon Watson

With tons of patterns, from the golden damask-print coverlet and the cozy pile of purple floral pillows to the intricate shutter design, this bedroom designed by Kristin Hein and Philip Cozi proves that you don't need a big canvas for the perfect little nest.

28

Keep It Low

Nicole England

In a lofted bedroom, Keep the mattress low to the ground like architect McLaren.Excell did here. An antique work stool functions as a side table and the sconces are built right into the partial wall behind the bed.

29

Customize

House Beautiful

Customize bedding with monograms and match your lampshades to your headboard, but then get wacky with curtains and throw blankets. That will ensure the perfect balance between polished and fun.

30

Combine Dresser and Nightstands

Shade Degges

"I wanted to create a bedroom full of personality," designer Jae Joo says of the main bedroom in this Boston Rowhouse. With no room for both a dresser and nightstands, she opted for something that could do both at once. Though classic and understated, the room brims with character thanks to a shrunken photo gallery, curved furniture, and colorful accents.

31

Shrink It Down

Romanek Design Studio

If you don't have enough room to pull up a bench to the end of your bed, try a stool instead. It'll add that desired design polish and give you somewhere to put on your shoes or store a blanket, but it won't look as bulky or take up as much visual real estate. Interior designer Brigette Romanek of Romanek Design Studio opted for a sleek caramel leather stool to contrast with the romantic blush bed frame.

32

Go Wild With Wallpaper

Studio DB

It might seem a little much for a small space, but a bold, bright wallpaper can help cocoon your room and give it a jewel-box effect. You don't need to cover the entire wall to make a statement. Just choose a smaller nook to cover in a fun print, as Studio DB boldly did in this bedroom.

33

Customize With Built-Ins

Romanek Design Studio

Take advantage of awkward niches, corners, nooks, and crannies with a built-in bench like Romanek Design Studio did in this bedroom. Even though it might not seem like useable space when you first look at it, a simple bench, cushions, and wall art can give it a brand new second life.

34

Make a Fake Canopy

SIMON WATSON

With no space for extra fun elements like floor lamps and a canopy, designer Peter Durham created a custom curtain wall and installed bedside sconces.

35

Install Inventive Storage

Mikael Axelsson

When you have a teeny-tiny bedroom, you have to get scrappy and strategic about storage space—otherwise, you'll never find what you're looking for unless you stub your toe on it. Take inspiration from this space, where the bed has built-in drawers and is framed by a bookshelf, which allows for extra storage space as well as a place to display decor and art.

36

Use Multi-Purpose Furniture

Tasmin Johnson

In this bedroom designed by Tamsin Johnson, the nightstand doubles as a dresser. If you can only fit one piece of furniture in your bedroom, make sure it's one that offers a few functional benefits.

37

Customize Your Headboard

Emily Henderson Design

This wall-to-wall upholstered headboard was custom designed by Brady Tolbert for Emily Henderson Design to meet the homeowners needs function and style-wise. That's a guaranteed way to make sure your bedroom is everything you want it to be. In the case of a small bedroom, a custom headboard with built-in nightstand saves tons of space.

38

Put Stuff Under Your Bed

Tim Street Porter

In this bedroom by Martin Lawrence Bullard, the preexisting architectural quirks are played up by a graphic, linear wallpaper that contrast with the more traditional elements throughout the space. But the most genius element? This bed has drawers underneath for more storage when you're lacking closet space.

39

Use Bigger (But Fewer) Furnishings

Maltsev Design

It may seem counterintuitive, but outfitting a small space with just a few large-scale pieces (rather than a mishmash of pint-size furniture) can actually make it feel grander. Resist the urge to push all of your furniture up against the walls. If you leave space behind the furniture, it makes the room look wider than it is.

40

Downsize Your Bed

If you need to sacrifice your queen or even your double, don't fret. A twin bed still has plenty of potential to be your stylish dream spot. In this small bedroom designed by Arent & Pyke, the custom corner headboard upholstered with Kelly Wrestler fabric sets the tone for a room that stands out, no matter its size.

41

Bring In Foldable Pieces

Paul Costello

Can't fit an accent chair into the corner to pile all your clothes on? Use a slim stool instead—even better if it's foldable so you can tuck to away when not in use. This will the mess to a minimum. Decorated by Shaun Smith, this bedroom is a great example of bold yet sophisticated style and cohesive pattern play in a tiny space.

42

Go Dark

Seth Caplan

Contrary to popular belief, dark colors don't necessarily make a room feel smaller—sometimes they even have the opposite effect, creating the illusion of an expansive space. The sandy hues of the duvet blend so nicely with plum pillows, both of which are sharpened by the inky wall paint. The linen bedding softens up the edgier feel of the black paint in this bedroom designed by Tali Roth.

43

Use Vertical Space

Built-in and low to the ground, this bed boasts an easy coolness. It was designed by Southern California-based Alexander DB, so no wonder it exudes that quintessential Cali cool charm. Add a floating shelf to use your vertical space for displaying artwork and storing knick knacks.

44

Utilize Built-Ins

James Merrell

Built-in bookshelves give you extra storage space without having a chunky piece of furniture protruding into the room. This hot air balloon printed wallcovering brings a sense of dreaminess and movement to the small bedroom. It's a beautiful way to frame the wall of built-in shelves. Designer Katie Lyndon aptly describes it as both classic but imaginative.

45

Add Mirrors

Alec Hemer

Fake space 'til you make space. Closet mirrors make this small bedroom feel larger than it actually is.

Hadley Mendelsohn Senior Editor Hadley Mendelsohn is House Beautiful's senior design editor and the co-host and executive producer of the podcast Dark House.

21 Small Bedroom Decorating Ideas To Fall In Love With

L: John Lewis & Partners, R: Farrow & Ball

Decorating a small bedroom can often be a challenge as you try to balance style with functionality – creating a beautiful and well-designed space free of clutter and conducive to relaxation, all whilst working within diminutive proportions. Small bedrooms usually require extra consideration and a clever approach to decorating to be successful.

We've gathered the most effective tips on how to utilise the small space you have - a clever use of colour to create the illusion of size, the right bedside tables and multifunctional beds to store away your essentials, quick tips on utilising every inch of wall space, and the design styles most conducive to small bedrooms.

Read on for 21 small bedroom ideas to fall in love with...

IKEA

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Small bedroom ideas: Hidden storage

When it comes to storage in a small bedroom, shelving and extra rails will always provide you with extra places to pop your belongings. 'Having a smaller bedroom doesn’t necessary mean having fewer clothes. With clever storage compartments such as GIMSE, clothes can be sorted and stored away whilst keeping the room looking tidy,' explains Clotilde Passalacqua, Interior Design Leader from Ikea UK and Ireland. 'Make the most of the wardrobe space by using SLÄKTING storage compartments to organise clothes in an efficient and smart way,'

• Shop the look at Ikea

House Beautiful

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Small bedroom ideas: Add colour through accessories

Naturally, a white room will elevate space and brightness, so introduce colourful accents through accessories and furniture instead. This sweet design scheme relies on bright, chalky pastels to add colour without detracting from the airy and bright feel of the room.

• Shop the look: House Beautiful Maisy Ottoman Bed at Dreams

Farrow & Ball

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Small bedroom ideas: Make use of every corner

This lovely tucked-away bedroom may be small, but it's filled with character, colour and a personal lived-in touch. Make use of every corner, by hanging reading lights above the bed or creating D.I.Y-style bookshelves (here they are just placed on the side of the bed).

• Shop the look at Farrow & Ball. This room is painted in 'Parma Gray No.27'.

IKEA

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Small bedroom ideas: Shelving

Additional shelving in a smaller space is the best way to store extra books, magazines, plants and photo frames. This super-small bedroom has utilised a tiny return to layer some simply frames and artwork creating a makeshift mini gallery wall.

• Shop the look at IKEA

Farrow & Ball

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Small bedroom ideas: All-over colour

'To create the feeling of more space in a small room, stick to one single colour, this will help create more space as with no point of reference and no contrasts, you’re less aware of where things stop and start,' explains Charlotte Cosby, Head of Creative at Farrow & Ball. 'Dependent on light direction, smaller spaces are more successful with the introduction of darker colours such as Sulking Room Pink or Treron as this distracts the eye from the size. 'For those who are less comfortable with using a single colour, use complementary whites a few shades lighter than the wall colour to avoid bringing the ceiling lower such as Parma Gray and School House White. '

• Shop the look at Farrow & Ball.

Dunelm

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Small bedroom ideas: Airy boho hues

When decorating small bedrooms, one of the best ways to maximise space is to use light and fresh colours. Hues such as soft sorbet-pinks, greys or whites will help to ensure the room feels bigger. Boho styles lend themselves to small spaces owing to their sorbet colour ways and an embrace of careful clutter.

• Shop the look at Dunelm

IKEA

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Small bedroom ideas: Loft bed

The ideal solution if your small bedroom is short on floor space but generous in height - a loft bed can free up room for a sofa or a work-from-home desk area. These work especially well in tiny guest bedrooms. Select something light and airy - like this pale-toned pine loft bed from IKEA - with a slim and unobtrusive frame.

• Shop the look at IKEA

Furniture Village

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Small bedroom ideas: Statement bed

Don't be afraid to add a large statement bed into a smaller room. Other furniture pieces can be worked around it, and there's always the option to practically store underneath. Whether you opt for a bed with drawers to pop additional belongings, or you only have room for a few boxes, under bed storage means you can still have that statement bed of your dreams.

• Shop the look: Vispring Elite Divan Set at Furniture Village

IKEA

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Small bedroom ideas: Fitted furniture

Over-head units are an excellent way to add extra storage when you are short on floor space. These IKEA storage units are just 42cm in depth, perfect for tidying away books, accessories, extra bedding or towels without taking up valuable inches in a small bedroom. We love the idea of adding a narrow desk underneath for the ultimate in multifunctional space.

• Shop the look at IKEA

House Beautiful

10 of 21

Small bedroom ideas: Miniaturise your bedside table

A bedside table is super handy for keeping your phone, a book, or soft task lighting close by, so don't forgo one if you have a small bedroom. Opt for a small round bedside table to reduce the footprint of your furniture, or a a floating bedside unit to keep night-time essentials up and away from your bed.

• Shop the look: House Beautiful Gatsby Blue Pleated Blinds at Hillarys, and House Beautiful Grove Ottoman Bed at Dreams

Argos

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Small bedroom ideas: Create a feature wall

Go bold with a statement feature wall in your small bedroom. An all-over wallpaper will make the room feel much more cramped, but having just one standout wall will create a bright statement — and ensure the room feels spacious. Play around with Scandi-style wooden panelling or wallpaper.

• Shop the look at Argos.

DFS

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Small bedroom ideas: Sofa beds

The ultimate solution for small bedrooms, and particularly handy if you live in a studio flat. Sofa beds have come on in leaps and bounds in terms of comfort and the variety of styles available. We're partial to our very own Layla sofa bed at DFS in this contemporary silver-grey upholstery.

• Shop the look: House Beautiful Layla Sofa Bed at DFS

Farrow & Ball

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Let the light in

Letting in extra light through larger windows will help to make the room feel bigger altogether. While this converted loft guest room may not have a lot of floor space, the slanted ceiling has been used as a place to build in an extra window. And what a brilliant way to bring in extra sunlight in the morning.

• Shop the look at Farrow & Ball. This room is painted in 'All White No.2005' and wallpapered in 'Uppark BP 523'

READ MORE: Two attic rooms turned into a contemporary bedroom and ensuite

John Lewis

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Small bedroom ideas: Throw out the rule book

This goes against most design advice for making a small bedroom look bigger, but if you are willing to embrace the diminutive proportions of your bedroom, then go maximalist. This 'more is more' style of piling colour on top of pattern on top of an abundance of furniture and accessories is decorating at its most joyous, and will help to create a space you love to spend time in, regardless of its size.

• Shop the look: Silhouette Upholstered Bed Frame at John Lewis & Partners

Hillarys

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Small bedroom ideas: Utilise window space

A clever space-saving hack for the smallest of small bedrooms. If you don't have an inch of floor space to spare, look to your window sill. If there is any depth there, it's the perfect place to create a small shelf to stack books or magazines. If you have a bit of extra depth (you'll need at least 16 inches,) consider creating a window seat with some simple upholstery and scatter cushions.

• Shop the look: House Beautiful Chalk Pink Shutters at Hillarys

John Lewis

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Small bedroom ideas: Built-in shelving

An excellent way to bring in some extra storage space is to choose built-in shelving. As seen in this beautiful bedroom here, the added wall space brings in the opportunity to showcase flowers, ornaments and books. It's great if you wouldn't otherwise have room for a free-standing cabinet.

• Shop the look at John Lewis & Partners

Carpetright

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Small bedroom ideas: Light carpets

Light, neutral colours accentuate a feeling of space and brightness, and doubly so when used on large expanses like your walls and floors. Avoid deep shades in your carpets or wooden flooring that will draw the eye - we favour creamy blush colours, or a classic beige. This contemporary bedroom has a bonus small space hack, too - the sweet miniature shelf used as a bedside table.

• Shop the look: House Beautiful Harbour Beach Saxony Carpet at Carpetright

The French Bedroom Company

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Small bedroom ideas: Mirrors

Strategic styling is key when it comes to decorating a smaller bedroom. Additional mirrors and mirrored furniture is a clever way to reflect light. It will make any small bedroom feel much bigger, giving it a brighter feel. Don't be afraid to play around with how many mirrors you choose. Whether it's floor-length styles, or small rounded ones above vanity tables, the more you opt for (within reason) the brighter the room will feel.

• Shop the look: Arched Wooden Window Mirror at The French Bedroom Company

IKEA

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Small bedroom ideas: Clever multi-purpose beds

One way to make use of a small bedroom is to get your hands on a bed that has more than just one purpose. While its comfort is vital for a good night's sleep, finding a bed frame that has the option for extra storage makes for an excellent find.

Shop the look at IKEA

Dreams

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Small bedroom ideas: Storage beds

What an excellent way to bring in added storage to a smaller bedroom through items such as an end-of-bed ottoman. 'When looking to kit out a small bedroom being able to move freely around the bedroom is key, to make sure you don’t bump your shins on clutter left around the floor. Think about investing in a storage bed either with drawers or with an ottoman lift or if your budget prevents this consider separate wheeled drawers that you can slide under the existing bed – just make sure you check the height from floor to bed,' says Caitlin Price, Head of Buying, Furniture & Flooring at John Lewis & Partners.

• Shop the look: House Beautiful Neva Velvet Ottoman Bed at Dreams

Cuckooland

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Small bedroom ideas: Keep it minimal

Bright light colours will help to radiate your small space and make the room appear bigger. Tidy any clutter away and when choosing furniture ensure you opt for light hues such as oak wood or white gloss. Elsewhere, clear floors and cupboard surfaces will help to create the illusion of a larger room.

• Shop the look at Cuckooland

Follow House Beautiful on Instagram.

12 clever design hacks for a small room interior

1 Transparent furniture

Transparent furniture is at the peak of popularity, and this is understandable: it is a functional solution that practically does not overload the space.

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Photo: Instagram design_dizart

Photo: Instagram mebelartby

Photo: Instagram dasha. ukhlinova

Photo: Instagram iuliagre

Photo: Instagram shipova_project

Photo: Instagram acrylshik.ru

Photo: Instagram shishkina111777

Modern designers are especially willing to use transparent furniture in the design of small rooms. Moreover, it is possible to “dissolve” in space in this way both individual elements of the situation, and, for example, an entire dining group.

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Photo: Instagram chelseadesignquarter

Photo: Instagram vikkimaywilson

Photo: Instagram capitol_carpets_uk

Photo: Instagram musthaveslvrs

By the way, a similar effect can be achieved by turning to patterns in the form of diamonds or zigzags.

Photo: Instagram edmeephotography

3 Transforming furniture

Transforming and multifunctional furniture is a real salvation for owners of small rooms. Wardrobe beds and sofa beds, folding tables, folding chairs. .. Be sure to check out the range of modern furniture manufacturers: you will surely like many solutions. nine0005

Design: Riksbyggen

4 Hanging decor

Didn't find room for decor on the walls? Leave their surface for more functional tasks - and turn to hanging decor.

Photo: Instagram sagarti_light

Photo: Instagram decor_with_soul

5 Accent surface

Another way to divert attention from the dimensions of the room is to design an accent surface. It can be a contrastingly painted or colorfully wallpapered wall, or, for example, a patchwork tiled floor. nine0005

Willy-nilly, your gaze will fall on this part of the small room, and the modest size of the room will begin to bother you much less.

Photo: Instagram scandi_ali

6 Textured materials

Textures make the space more interesting, expressive and voluminous, and also distract attention from the dimensions of the room (which is very important for small rooms).

Design: Midnatt

Choose natural materials and natural textiles with a strong texture: wood, linen, knitted and wicker decor items are great options. nine0005

Design: Stadshem

7 Low furniture and low-lying decor

By visually raising the ceiling, you can visually make a small room a little more spacious. A simple but effective trick will help with this: choose low furniture for the interior, and also place the wall decor not too high. Thus, you can deceive your own perception of the dimensions of the room.

Design: MYCS

Design: Ahre

Design: Stadshem

Design: Stadshem

8 More light

There should be no dark corners in the interior of a small room: they “eat up” the space, visually making the room even smaller. Let in more natural light: ditch curtains or replace them with ones that let in as much sunlight as possible.

Design: Historiska Hem

Design: Historiska Hem

Design: Entrance Makleri

Design: Stadshem

Add more artificial light sources, as well as glossy, metallic and other reflective surfaces. nine0005

9 Mirrors

Active assistants in the fight for increasing light and visual expansion of space - mirrors and mirror surfaces (for example, tiles, mosaics, panels).

Design: Fantastic Frank

10 Small patterns and prints

Too large, active prints and patterns in a small room will look out of place - and only further emphasize the lack of free space.

If plain surfaces are not to your liking, opt for neater, finer patterns. nine0005

Design: Sarah Widman

11 Interior doors in the color of the walls

We have already said more than once that storage systems matched to the color of the walls visually clutter up the space much less and look more appropriate in small rooms.

But there is one more trick: similarly, interior doors, decorated in a shade close to the color of the walls, look much lighter and help to additionally relieve the interior.

Design: Stadshem

12 Grounds

No matter how hard you try, no matter what design techniques you use, the area of ​​the room is a constant value. However, no one canceled the adjacent territory: the entrance hall, the corridor, the balcony. Why not move some of the storage there? Or, say, not organize a home mini-office there, saving some space in the room?

Design: Alvhem

Small room design - tips and reviews from experts

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Marina Melnik

Any room, even the most modest size, can be decorated in any known style.

Many people face the problem of arranging a small space, and it makes no difference whether you own an apartment in an old fund, a private house or become a happy newcomer to a new building. If you don’t know how to approach this difficult task, and you can’t count on the help of professional designers, we will help you figure out how to turn useful meters into a cozy home. nine0003

The basic principle to keep in mind when designing a small room is to maintain a balance between maximum practicality and comfort. Of course, this should not be done at the expense of the aesthetic appeal of the real interior.

Masters of Illusion: color, reflection, scale

The laws of physics are severe: six or seven square meters will not magically turn into twenty or thirty. But here a variety of optical illusions can come to our aid. After all, the room does not have to be large, it is enough to seem so. It is on the visual increase in space that you need to bet. nine0005

Probably the most popular design tip for small rooms is to use light colors, they expand the space. And it really works. For the largest surfaces and interior items, it is better to choose neutral light shades, and save bright colors for decoration.

But mirrors and glossy finishes are highly overrated in this case. In order for this illusion to justify itself, very large reflective surfaces are needed, for which there is often simply no place. In addition, they must be kept in perfect cleanliness, otherwise they will not only not be able to reflect anything, but will also look untidy. nine0005

On the other hand, windows do an excellent job of increasing space. Therefore, do not hang them with heavy dark curtains! It is better to choose light curtains made of natural fabrics, and hide from the sun or neighbors behind a Roman blind, which is attached directly to the window itself, is compact and almost invisible when folded.

Unfortunately, the principle of proportionality is often overlooked in design. This does not mean that some special reduced furniture is needed for a small room. But it is better to opt for models with simpler forms, without an abundance of massive decorative elements, which will look more light than monumental. If this cannot be avoided, then try to minimize the damage. For example, a huge monochromatic sofa surface can be visually reduced somewhat by “breaking” it with decorative pillows. nine0005

Decor should also be chosen according to the same principle. Large paintings, vases, figurines or lamps that looked good in the store may seem gigantic in a real apartment. They divert all attention to themselves and create the effect of the only object in the room. But you should not be too small, so that the interior does not resemble a patchwork quilt. Give preference to the golden mean.

Pushing the boundaries

The real size of the room is determined by the planes that physically limit it, so the more inconspicuous these planes are, the more spacious the room itself will seem. nine0005

Walls

It is they that limit the small space of the room, which means that they need to be eliminated first. Make them as unremarkable as possible. In decoration, give preference to light calm tones and abstract patterns. You can use embossed plaster, panels for natural materials, wallpaper without a clear pattern. A strict geometric pattern, stripes, a flower pattern, on the contrary, will bring the walls to the fore, visually bringing them closer.

Ceiling

The principle “the simpler the better” works here. After all, the more open space remains at the top, the brighter, higher and more spacious the room will seem. A calm white, uninterrupted matte surface is the most obvious and rational solution. Replace bulky chandeliers with an abundance of decorative elements with simple flat lamps or spotlights. Multi-tiered stretch ceilings with photo wallpapers and various backlights are not only not relevant for a long time, they require unjustified costs and are morally obsolete, but they also significantly reduce the space both in the most direct physical sense and in the field of illusions. nine0005

Floor

Much of it is likely to be hidden under furniture. But this does not mean that he does not need attention or that the principles described above do not apply to him. Try to make the largest visible area close to simple geometric shapes: a rectangle or a square. After all, the more complex the surface, the longer the human brain processes it, and therefore pays more attention to it. When choosing a floor covering, look for options in natural shades with discreet textures and without a clear visible division into constituent elements (tiles or boards). nine0005

When choosing a carpet, remember the principle of proportionality. A medium-sized dim model is preferable here than a huge carpet that leaves a tiny gap along the walls, which can look comical. A few too small rugs can even look like patches in linoleum.

Rules for dividing: marking and zoning

If a room has several purposes - for example, a dining room and a living room - it is advisable to divide it into semantic zones. nine0005

The most obvious, but not always the best, way to do this is with a physical tactile baffle . Give preference to light, permeable designs with a simple geometry of shapes. Instead of a drywall monolith, you can use shelving and shelves, providing yourself with additional storage space.

Another effective and less labor-intensive method is light zoning . When choosing lighting, pay attention to intensity. A bright table lamp works well for a desk, while a lamp with a shade and dimmed light works well for the area next to the bed. nine0005

Finally, you can also use the color coding by choosing a separate shade for each of the zones. It does not have to be the main color of the object at all, separate elements are enough. For example, a small painting in blue above the table, cushions on chairs and serving napkins of a similar color will visually unite the space of the dining area and separate it from the living room, designed in a slightly different color scheme.

Getting rid of excess: inventory

It makes sense to start working on a new design and a new layout after you have determined exactly what things will really come in handy in your daily life, and what will only get in the way and collect dust.

We are talking about interior items that we almost never use for their intended purpose. For example, a variety of coffee tables, coasters, bedside tables, huge pouffes, bulky and so loved by many generations, but irretrievably outdated slides, cupboards, magazine racks and similar items purchased for a set. In a modern interior, they can quite find a worthy more functional replacement: a bedside table - a hinged shelf with hidden fasteners, a slide - a neat showcase, shapeless poufs - a small bench. nine0005

But what about furniture that is used only occasionally or under certain circumstances? Take a closer look at folding and collapsible options. For example, if you have a small family, but you like feasts with friends, it is not at all necessary to buy a huge table. You can choose the option with a hinged or sliding cover, and instead of 8 chairs, you can purchase 4 regular and 4 folding, or several stools that are easy to stack. For an extra bed, you can buy a folding chair, not a huge sofa book. nine0005

Tastes differ: styles in the interior

Any room, even the most modest size, can be decorated in any well-known style. However, in some cases, this is quite difficult to do, not to mention the fact that you will need the help of a professional designer to create an interior. Therefore, we will focus on those that seem to be created for limited spaces.

Minimalist

This is the most obvious option. It involves the use of a small color palette, which is extremely convenient. nine0005

Minimalism also implies the use of simple geometric shapes, a small and precise use of decorative elements, and the absence of impractical details. nine0005

And, of course, the very number of items should be reduced as much as possible to the most necessary. However, do not confuse minimalism with spartan conditions. It is very comfortable to live in a properly selected minimalist interior. After all, its main principle is everything you need and nothing more.

There are several directions.

Scandinavian

It is based on the concept of hygge - a special Scandinavian idea of ​​life, where comfort, coziness and slowness are valued above all else. It is characterized by simplicity and smoothness of forms, light bleached shades, natural materials or their imitations, emphasized functionality of objects. nine0005

Japanese

This trend is based on an ancient and complex concept, which, in the most simplified way, can be expressed in the words "admiring the void." In an ideal Japanese home, the room should look like there is nothing in it.

Compared to the Scandinavian version, there are darker and deeper colors, more strict geometric shapes; in such an interior there are fewer smooth streamlined lines. It is not uncommon for designers to draw on the rich Japanese heritage by incorporating items from old Japanese machiya or minka houses into contemporary home décor. For example, woven tatami floor mats or heated kotatsu low square tables. Also here you can often find characteristic oriental materials: bamboo, vine, rice paper. nine0005

Japendi

This style arose not so long ago at the junction of the two previous ones (japandi - from English Japan - "Japan" and Scandi - Scandinavian design). He took the best of both and perfectly combines Scandinavian practicality and the Japanese desire for empty space and unity with nature. Rich and saturated colors soften some of the coldness of northern design, while Scandinavian functionality and the desire for comfort somewhat blur the rigor and traditionalism of Japanese interiors. nine0005

All these styles are extremely popular today and you can't call them obsolete, but they seem to exist out of time. If you are attracted to something more modern, then pay attention to the following areas.

Hi-tech

The same minimalistic principles of simplicity and geometry are combined here with modern high-tech materials, glass, plastic, metal, concrete are often used. The color palette is much richer and even includes neon shades.

Loft

This style was born from the need to provide a roof over the head of the ever-increasing population of the modern city. It is a converted industrial building. Structural elements are not only not hidden, but are also emphasized. You can often see beams, pipes and ventilation ducts left open.

Materials used are raw concrete, exposed unplastered brickwork, wood planks with minimal finish or traces of old paint. There is a lot of play in this style. Much is not what it seems. For example, an old door can become a table top, and glass jars can become ceiling lights. If you are on a budget, but you know how and love to create things with your own hands, this style may be to your liking. nine0005

But what if minimalism is “not for you”, your soul needs a holiday, bright colors and a couple of floral curtains? Create the necessary neutral base and place bright accents: add a complex vase, multi-colored pillows, an unusual lamp, choose interesting textiles. In this case, you can pay attention to the following areas.

Retro

Paradoxically, vintage today is very modern. Designers often turn to mid-century interiors. In fashion 50s, 60s, 70s. Their elements are boldly mixed, creating a kind of fantasy image of the past with an admixture of light nostalgia. In the interior, you can use color palettes characteristic of a particular period, antique or referring to the past objects, decor and fabrics. nine0005

Shabby chic

Style with a touch of tender antiquity (from the English shabby - shabby, dilapidated, pale). It is characterized by pastel shades, floral patterns, unpainted or artificially aged elements. Some of this may well serve as an exquisite addition to a modern interior.

Boho-chic

This direction is distinguished by bright decorative effect, abundance of flowers, use of colorful fabrics, tiles, stained glass technique, handmade items. It will come in handy if you borrow only individual elements. nine0005

Interior design for rooms of various purposes

Having dealt with the "theory", color and style in general terms, let's turn to the practical side of the issue: determine the purpose of this small room.

The only room in the apartment

The case is difficult, but not hopeless. In a small space you will have to fit a bedroom, an office, a living room, sometimes a dining room, and at the same time do not forget about storage space. To cope with this task, prioritization will help. Try to answer the question "what do I do most often in this room?". nine0005

If you spend a lot of time at work or school and outside the home and come "only to sleep", take care of a good sleeping place. In this case, you should pay attention not to folding sofas, but to small beds or ottomans with a good orthopedic mattress. Such models are compact and often have roomy storage boxes. Good sleep will help you recover faster so that you can continue to maintain an active lifestyle.

If, on the contrary, you are a homebody and work remotely, then provide yourself with a comfortable workspace where everything is at hand and there is nothing superfluous. Instead of open shelves, you can use small table chests of drawers that will help not only to put things in order, but also visually reduce the number of items in the room. Don't forget about a comfortable chair. Here it is worth paying attention not only to strength, but also to its ergonomic properties: proper back support is very important if you sit in the same position for a long time. nine0005

If you can't decide or you need to fit absolutely everything, then a variety of transformers will come to the rescue: folding sofas with storage compartments, bookcases with a built-in workplace, wardrobes with retractable ironing boards, sliding tables.

Now let's take a closer look at those cases where the purpose of the room is only one.

Bedroom

It is quite natural that most of the room will be occupied by the bed. This will have to be dealt with. You can open up the space a little by placing other large items - such as a wardrobe - against the wall in which the door is located. So they will be less conspicuous, which will somewhat hide their true size. nine0005

Prefer calm tones. You can experiment with darker and deeper accent colors to help create a peaceful atmosphere. Darkness is essential for good sleep. Therefore, it is worth paying attention to Roman blinds with a "blackout" effect, which almost completely block out sunlight.

Reduce the number of small items. Instead of two armchairs or chairs, you can put a small soft bench at the foot of the bed, and replace the bedside tables with wall shelves. nine0005

Children's

Having their own space is very important for children, especially during adolescence. Leave as much free space as possible for games, exercise and creativity. Let the child himself reorganize the interior a little. Instead of a stationary sofa, add a pair of soft bean bags that can be easily moved around the room. Or a lightweight folding table that can serve both as a puppet tea party and for preparing a school project.

For storage of toys it is convenient to use large baskets, boxes or containers, which are easy to store in racks and thus give the room a tidy look.

Where can one find free space if a child needs a bed, a table, a bookcase, and his own wardrobe? So-called loft beds will come to your aid. The child's sleeping place is located at the top, like a bunk bed, and a desktop can be placed under it, so that two large items will occupy the same area. nine0005

Living room

A massive sofa, two equally huge armchairs, a slide, a TV cabinet, a coffee table pushed under the window, a flimsy floor lamp - a classic set of most living rooms. Try to break away from this pattern with a more creative approach. Pay attention to long sofas of strict forms and without armrests, light upholstered chairs with wooden frames, high bookcases up to the ceiling with glass doors. Separately, it should be said about modular sofas, which are easily assembled into designs of different shapes and disassembled into individual seats. Of these, everyone can assemble a comfortable chair to their liking. nine0005

TV does not have to be placed anywhere. Most modern models can be mounted directly on the wall. Real moviegoers should think about buying a projector. Some models already now are not inferior, and sometimes even superior in image quality to mid-range TVs. The projector screen easily folds into a small tube under the ceiling and is almost invisible when not in use.

Study room or "hobby room"

Rooms specially designed for doing some kind of creativity are gaining more and more popularity. If you have a hobby that requires space, consider this option. Most likely, you will need a simple, durable and spacious table. It is convenient to use large hinged tabletops on which you can place additional equipment. In addition, you will need a place to store materials. And so that the tools are always at hand, hinged shelves are useful. Take care also of a comfortable chair or armchair and good lighting. nine0005

We hope that in this article you have gathered useful ideas for renovating a small room. And our virtual catalog offers you a wide variety of products in a variety of styles and colors that will help bring even the most daring projects to life.

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