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Very small bedroom


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

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30 small bedroom ideas to maximise space as well as style

(Image credit: Future Plc/Dominic Blackmore)

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Thinking about giving your bijou bedroom a refresh or just want to know how to maximise space in a compact room? Then these small bedroom ideas will provide the perfect inspiration!

With a whole host of bedroom ideas, including expert tips and advice, our round-up below can help you turn a tiny cramped space into a must-see retreat, with practical storage solutions and enviable interior design schemes.

Even the most humble of box rooms has the ability to transform into a comfortable small bedroom idea, and clever use of furniture can turn it into a multi-functional space too, incorporating useful study and storage areas.

Small bedroom ideas 

The most obvious piece of furniture you'll want to consider in a bedroom is the bed, and we'd always suggest looking into a storage bed, to really maximise your space.

But bedroom storage ideas, wardrobes and somewhere to store our things in general, comes in at close second.

Rachal Hutcheson, National Retail Manager at Sharps says,

'When it comes to small bedroom storage, our individual needs are unique, and functional solutions will need to consider both the type of items you are looking to store and the space you have to fill. '

'From a practical and aesthetical perspective, fitted wardrobes offer the most effective and efficient way to make use of the space within your bedroom.  A truly bespoke design, that has been created to fit the exact contours of your room will offer, on average, 40% more space than ordinary fitted wardrobe designs.'

Laura Burnett, Buyer at Feather & Black goes on to say, 'Small bedrooms are wonderful, cosy places in any house, offering a snug retreat from the outside world.'

'They can also be the ideal guest room, a fun hideaway for young kids or a space for some well-earned alone time. One problem with smaller bedrooms is the issue of space. More often than not, most of the room is taken up by the bed as a centrepiece, and it can be challenging to fit in anything else.'

But with our range of savvy ideas and clever tips below, you'll be sure to find plenty of small bedroom ideas to solve all of your bedroom woes. 

1. Build in a vanity unit

(Image credit: Future Plc/Anna Stathaki)

To ensure a small bedroom stays clutter-free, include a dressing table in your built-in storage so that your make-up trinkets can be shut away to give the room a streamlined look.  

If you have space for a walk-in wardrobe, then this is a great way to free up the space where the bed would be placed, meaning the room can appear from streamlined and less cluttered.

2. Be smart with storage in a box room

(Image credit: Future Plc/Dominic Blackmore)

If your small bedroom is more of a box room,  you'll want to know how to arrange furniture in a bedroom to make the most of the space. 

Storage is also an issue too, so make a feature of a high shelf on decorative brackets, with grab-handled baskets that fit flush to the ceiling, for storage that doesn't intrude into the space.

Use a wall-mounted wire magazine rack as a book holder if there's no space for a bedside table. 

It's also important to make a small room feel as airy as possible, and one way to do this is enhancing the natural light levels.

Nic Shacklock, Head of Marketing at Online-Bedrooms.co.uk says, 

“One of the key aspects to brighten up a small bedroom is by letting the natural light in. Try not to block any windows with headboards or plants but allow the light in to make the room feel more spacious. Having natural light will also create an upliftingenvironment within the room and won’t make it feel shallow and tight.”

3. Invest in bespoke storage

(Image credit: Sharps)

While fitted wardrobe ideas may seem pricey, it's worth the investment to maximise the space in your small bedroom.

Rachal Hutcheson, National Retail Manager at Sharps says, 'There are many options for personalising a fitted wardrobe, to ensure it works perfectly for your lifestyle, for example combining hanging rails with pigeonhole shelving, internal drawers and shoe storage will help keep you organised whilst allowing easy access to the clothes you need, when you need them.'

'Consider curved corner rails, pull out trouser rails, and pull down hanging rails to ensure your wardrobe is as efficient as it can be.'

'It's also important to take a wardrobe’s doors into consideration to ensure they are easily opened in a small room. If a bed is in close proximity to wardrobe, opt for sliding doors like these, from £2000 ,  to provide a sleek, effective alternative, whilst mirrored styles will help to make a space look bigger.'

4. Use multifunctional furniture

(Image credit: Sofa.com)

When space is at a premium, multifunctional furniture comes into its own. Look for pieces that can double up, such as this Hardy bedside storage ottoman in Twilight, £860 , from Sofa.com, that can be used at the foot of the bed as a seat while acting also acting as the ideal place for extra blankets and layers to pull out at a moments notice. 

Keeping the extra bedding out of sight helps to create a clutter-free space, which contributes to making the space feel bigger.

Patricia Gibbons, Head of Merchandising and Buying at Sofa.com says, 'When it comes to bedrooms, a clutter free space should be a priority when looking at layouts. Your bedroom should be a cosy room designed for relaxation and winding down - avoid having too much furniture and make sure you have multifunctional pieces that work extra hard to keep the clutter at bay. '

'Look to storage benches and ottoman footstools sat at the end of the bed to quickly stash away laptops and chargers if your bedroom is now your home office and reclaim the space as one fit for relaxation in the evenings.'

5. Rethink the layout

(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)

One thing that small bedroom ideas will always benefit from is rethinking the traditional layout. Learn how to arrange furniture in a bedroom in a way that makes you feel less overwhelmed. Position the majority of furniture on just one wall, preferably the wall you see less of when in the space to stop it feeling overcrowded.

Try to minimise the amount of furniture within small bedroom ideas, by being resourceful with clever multifunctional pieces – the sideboard that also acts as a dressing table for instance.

6. Utilise all awkward corners for storage

(Image credit: Future PLC/Rachael Smith)

When space is premium it calls for savvy storage solutions. Using an otherwise unusable space for concealed bedroom storage ideas helps to prevent clutter from encroaching on an already limited space.

Out of sight is best for a small bedroom, because any visible items will make the room feel overcrowded – therefore feeling even smaller.

7. Build storage around the bed

(Image credit: Future PLC/Dominic Blackmore)

Bespoke wardrobes are the most effective way to get the most out of your bedroom storage. Built in wardrobes on either side of the bed help to create a frame which holds the gaze on that one wall. This allows the remaining walls to be free of any obstructions which will take up valuable space. Use the other walls for artwork or mirrors instead.

You could use the space further by creating storage above the bed too, just be mindful not to make the decor feel dated – or claustrophobic with too much going on.

8. Reflect on surface choices

(Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole)

Double the feel of small bedroom ideas by using reflective surfaces to create the optical illusion of continuing space. Who hasn't walked into a bar and thought it was double the size, only to realise it was a clever use of mirrors which led you to believe so? Mirrored wardrobes, a reflect shiny wall covering and mirrored tables are used in the compact bedroom to make the space feel bigger than it is, while adding a touch of romantic bedroom ideas to the space.

Maybe using all three feels too overwhelming, fear not – the same principles work by using only  a single one of the these elements. Think about where you can best install reflective surfaces when designing your small bedroom layout.

9. Create the illusion of space

(Image credit: Dulux)

Paint is a marvellous solution for so many decorating problems. Not only can a splash of colour instantly help to invigorate a space, making it feel more inviting, it can also be used in a way that helps to combat wider aesthetic issues, such as making small spaces feel bigger. 

Take for instance this small bedroom paint idea, where a combination of colours has helped to create a border, and therefore has created a new perspective for the walls. An optical illusion of sorts.

The thoughtful combination of Dulux’s Denim drift on the bottom half, met by a slim dado-style border of Spiced Honey, topped by Tranquil Dawn helps to break the room – lengthening the walls. A great paint solution to tackle the perils of small spaces.

10. Make your headboard work harder

(Image credit: Future PLC/Joanna Henderson)

If space is in short supply, ditch the usual style of headboard for one  with a gap for storage and a surface area, where you can place things. This means you can do away with bulky bedside tables, as you'll have a convenient spot to stash your bedtime reading. Plus, this works for budget bedroom ideas too as you're getting two pieces of furniture for one!

Go one better with your bedroom ideas for small rooms and install wall lamps too.

11. Store from floor to ceiling

(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)

Invest in a wardrobe as tall as you can physically get into the room, slimline is of course best to save taking up valuable floorspace. Then use the space above the wardrobe ideas to seek extra storage room, for boxes and baskets to ensure every inch of space from floor to ceiling is best used. 

Keep the baskets and boxes orderly and tidy, to avoid it look chaotic.

12. Build storage into alcoves

(Image credit: Future PLC/Jody Stewart)

Whether your small bedroom ideas have alcoves or awkward spaces caused by eaves make the most of them by creating smart storage solutions. The architectural nature of alcoves provides the perfect place to feature a run of open shelves, with bespoke cupboards below.

The shelves of this savvy alcove idea are ideal for housing books and things you wish to have on display, while the cupboards are perfect for bigger storage needs, to conceal items such as extra bedding or boxes of life admin.

13. Double up your dressing table

(Image credit: Future PLC/Tim Young)

With working from home the norm, at least on occasion, for many, even the bedroom has been brought onto the roster. While it's not ideal to work or have your computer in the bedroom, can your dressing table double up as a writing desk?

Even if it's just somewhere to peacefully gather your thoughts and write your to do list, it's worth keeping the surface area clear rather than cluttering it with lotions and potions.

14. Elevate storage off the floor

(Image credit: Future)

Look to the walls for bedroom ideas for small rooms. Hanging a storage unit on the wall instead of having a bedside table that sits on the floor will instantly free up space. One with a drop down desk will give you somewhere to sit and do your make up or place your morning coffee.

15. Use uplifting colour to open up the space

(Image credit: Future PLC/Dominic Blackmore)

Using an uplifting bedroom colour scheme, such as a sunshine yellow, can help to invigorate any small space, just be mindful of how you use the colour. Painting the bright colour up to mid room height will help to anchor the colour to the bottom half of the room.

Finish the rest of the painting in a bright white or similar neutral to help keep the look airy and spacious. Allow the added splash of colour to determine a tonal palette for bedding, accessories and floor rugs to create a cohesive look.

16. Wall mount the lighting

(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)

Wall-mounted lighting in a small bedroom can help to free up some much needed surface space. Using the wall allows you to perfectly place the task lighting to enhance the layout.

17. Step things up with vertical storage

(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)

Ladder storage is a great way to achieve the benefit of wall shelving whilst having the flexibility to move it when you want to change things around. This one perfectly suits this tight space in the bedroom but it could just as easily work in the bathroom or a small sitting room.

18. Buy a wardrobe with a sliding door

(Image credit: The Cotswold Company)

Barely have space to move in your bedroom, but have lots of clothes that need a home? Try a wardrobe with a sliding door. This piece features a full-height rail on one side, together with five drawers and a half-height wardrobe above with removable shelves. 

Adding wardrobe organisers will help keep even the tiniest of spaces spick and span.

And when it comes to awkward shaped rooms, there are options for these spaces too. 

Rachal says, 'Small or awkward spaces often need intelligent solutions to make the most of them so consider curved corner rails, pull out trouser rails, pull down hanging rails to ensure your wardrobe is as efficient as it can be.'

19. Swap the bed for a sofa bed

(Image credit: Future PLC/Carolyn Barber)

When square footage is at a premium, try incorporating a wall bed instead of a traditional sofa bed within small bedroom ideas. It takes a standard mattress, offering greater comfort, and can fold away to look like a wardrobe or cabinet, freeing up valuable floor space for a desk and chair.

Ensure that the surrounding furniture is lightweight so that it can easily be moved to accommodate a pull-down bed. If you have adequate ceiling height, look at bespoke options, such as a simple mezzanine incorporating a sleeping area on a raised platform with a wardrobe or shelving below.

20. Raise up your storage

(Image credit: Future PLC/Simon Whitmore)

Like any small space, the key to a successful compact bedroom is to create adequate storage within a functional layout. Often in a small guest bedroom, a couple of large, hard-working pieces of furniture will create a less cluttered look than several small pieces.

When square footage is at a premium, try incorporating floating shelves, or (if your budget allows) bespoke fitting above the bed for a streamlined bedroom ideas for small rooms that won't compromise your space.

21. Hang a space-saving headboard

(Image credit: Future PLC/Dan Duchars)

You wouldn't think a headboard would take up much space, but some designs can be deceptive. Where every inch of space counts look for alternative ways to add interest to a bedroom wall, without compromising on valuable space. A quirky wall-hung DIY headboard idea is a genius way to add a finishing touch to a bedstead, without having to encroach on the space.

This smart idea also saves the costs of buying a new bed when tastes or trends change, simply create a new backdrop for the bed by way of a new wall hanging.

22. Luxuriate in colour

(Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole)

Think you can't add colour to small bedroom ideas? Think again! Tight spaces are a great for experimenting with colour, texture and design.

Combine petrol blue and aqua tones for a near-combustible mix; choose sumptuous silks and rich velvets for tactile bedspreads, cushions and curtains. But amidst these deep, rich shades, hold back a little white for ceilings and window frames.

23. Create a feature wall

(Image credit: Future PLC/Malcolm Menzies)

Be bold with a striking wallpaper and eye-catching artwork and turn play with bedroom accent wall ideas to create a focal point in a small space. Opt for a restricted colour palette with crisp white bed linen and furniture made from reclaimed wood.

Stick to mostly white bed linen so the look isn't overly busy and introduce a splash of colour to liven up the scheme a notch.

24. Paint a small bedroom white

(Image credit: Future PLC/Jason Ingram)

Decorate walls and ceilings in the best white paint to visually open up a small space and free you to use colour and pattern in a controlled way elsewhere. Then go to town with cottage garden florals - against the plain background they won’t overpower within small bedroom ideas.

Let colourful fabrics take centre stage with a bold, red patterned bedspread and cushions that contrast with the rest of the room.

25. Use the space behind the bed

(Image credit: Future PLC/Simon Whitmore)

Make storage less visible by incorporating it into an unassuming area, such as the space behind the bed. Cleverly disguised units, most likely found at IKEA, will create a form of interest at the head of the bed in place of a headboard but will double up as hidden storage.

This hidden storage is the perfect place to keep extra blankets, hot water bottles and other bedtime essentials. It could also be an ideal storage solution for freshly laundered bedding, to ensure it's close to hand come sheet changing day.

26. Create a cool work zone

(Image credit: Future)

In a kid's room, take over part of the wardrobe space to create a cool work zone. Installing a wall lamp and hanging a pin board where you can fix pots for pens and other knick knacks will keep the desk space free for focusing on the important stuff.

27. Put a peg rail in place

(Image credit: Future PLC/Simon Whitmore)

Peg rails are not just for traditional Shaker kitchens. Use a simple peg rail in a bedroom to elevate any additional storage needs in a small bedroom space. Hang pictures, mirrors or even items of clothing to keep items off the floor. The versatile pegs allow for flexible storage, which will ensure every inch of space is usable.

28. Make it minimal

(Image credit: Future PLC/David Giles)

Symmetry is your friend when you need to strip back to essentials in a small room. Double up on bedside cabinets and lighting for an uncomplicated, easy-on-the-eye scheme. Use hits of duplicated colour to create visual balance and add definition and energy.

Stick with neutral bedroom ideas as a fail-safe space enhancer. Here, soft neutrals add just the right amount of warmth, while the minimal wall decorations draw the eye to the bed and keep it there.

29. Embrace pattern

(Image credit: Future PLC/Dominic Blackmore)

If you love bold prints or texture, don't shy away from your favourite pattern in a small bedroom.

Whether it's on walls or soft furnishings, make a feature out of a strong design: papering one wall with flocked or floral wallpaper will stop the pattern from taking over the small room, but will still achieve the desired finish.

30. Look to furniture with form and function

(Image credit: Future PLC/Dominic Blackmore)

Most homes suffer from bottlenecks so think laterally too about how to free up space. Can a small bedroom have wardrobes in the hall outside, with dressing room appeal? Challenge your preconceptions, but do make sure any solution is practical.

Another option is to go for a statement bed and little else, as we've done here. If you follow this route, use a bed that offers plenty of in-built hidden storage, or space underneath to store boxes and vacuum bags.

Which colour is best for a small bedroom?

Generally speaking white and neutral are thought best for decorating small spaces, especially small bedroom ideas because the colours are calming and tranquil. 

Nic Shacklock, Head of Marketing at Online-Bedrooms.co.uk says,

'Styling a small bedroom can be the make-or-break difference in having a cluttered small space or a clean and tidy room. Selecting the colour scheme for a small bedroom is the first step in maximising space.'

'Having white on the walls can make a bedroom feel airier and makes the room look bigger and spacious. If white isn’t to your personal taste, bright colours such as sky blues and soft greens can also do the trick. '

Having said that there are ways in which you can incorporate colour into a small bedroom space without overwhelming the space as these bedroom paint ideas prove.

How do I arrange my small bedroom?

Try to minimise clutter within small bedroom ideas to instantly make the room feel more spacious. A clutter-free bedroom is also key to getting a good night's sleep too.

Keep furniture to a minimum in a small bedroom.  Where you can opt for elevated designs, those on legs rather than flush to the ground in order to free up floor space.

And let's not forget the the benefit of bespoke furniture when it comes to planning and arranging your space.

Simon Tcherniak, Senior Designer at Neville Johnson says,

'Small spaces don’t necessarily translate to small storage opportunity. Fitted furniture can be configured to any size and shape of room, even small and awkward alcoves or nooks.'

'Neville Johnson are experts at designing bespoke storage solutions that will completely transform a space into one that is attractive and functional. Using clever and innovative fitted furniture means you have control over how your space is crafted, to ensure all of your storage needs are met.'

There is also the storage potential under beds, but just be sure your items are stored out of sight at all times. The calming effect of a bedroom is ruined when sports equipment or surplus shoes are spilling into the room.

 The aim is to keep as much off the floor to create a sense of space, look up at the ceiling to remind yourself of the floorspace within the room.

And of course make sure the space is comforting, whether large or small this is always the most important factor when arranging a bedroom layout.

How do you maximise space in a small bedroom?

Storage solutions are key to maximising space in a small bedroom which is hopefully where our small bedroom ideas can help.

But as well as ensuring it is a practical space, you also want it to be an inviting and beautiful space too, so it's important you strike a balance of the two.

The experts at King Living say, 'For us at KING Living, effective storage solutions are a prerequisite for a functional, orderly and practical bedroom.' 

'A storage bed will help you steer clear of additional furniture like cupboards, and chest of drawers – in turn freeing up more floor space. Ottoman beds with generous built-in storage compartments are an ideal fit for large and small bedrooms alike and are always popular options amongst our customers.'

'Functional bedside tables are an essential in the bedroom, they not only provide an ideal home for lighting, vases and reading material, but also offer discreet storage to maintain a clutter-free sleeping environment.'

'Space permitting, accenting the bedroom with additional elements such as an occasional chair or ottoman will build flexibility within the room.'

Laura Burnett, Buyer at Feather & Black agrees that storage beds are a great buy for a small bedroom and goes on to say, 'Ottoman bed provide hidden but impressive storage with the entire mattress base lifting up with an easy-to-operate mechanism - perfect for those looking for extra space to store spare linens and bulky items such as bedding. ' 

'The same rules apply when buying an ottoman as with any other bed - consider the style and size first. As an ottoman has a solid base it can feel larger than a classic bedstead with legs, so it’s important to think about whether a wooden or upholstered ottoman is better aesthetically, and then decide on colour or fabric and how it will feel in your room - darker colours can be dramatic and statement making, but also feel more imposing.'

Holly Walsh has been Content Editor at Ideal Home since 2021, but joined the brand back in 2015. With a background of studies in Interior Design, her career in interior journalism was a no-brainer and her passion for decorating homes is still as strong as it ever was. While Holly has written for most of the home titles at Future, including Livingetc, Country Homes & Interiors, Homes and Gardens and Style at Home, Ideal Home has always been her ideal home, and she can be found sharing her expertise and advice across both the printed magazine and the website too.

90 photos of interiors - Ideas for renovation

People spend almost a third of their lives in a dream, so it is very important that the place intended for relaxation be as comfortable as possible. A pleasant interior will help you relax and forget about all the things outside the bed. For ideas and tips on how to create a piece of paradise from a small bedroom, you will find in this article.

Choosing an interior style

If when planning the interior of a living room, kitchen or study, you have to think first of all about their functionality, then in the relaxation area it is permissible to give free rein to imagination and listen to the desires of the soul. The basis for design experiments in a small bedroom can be styles such as Scandinavian, modern, classic, minimalism, loft or Provence.

Small modern style bedroom

The small bedroom of the 21st century is all about clear graphic lines, soothing tones and no unnecessary items.

Modern style suggests neat but reliable furniture without additional decor. The walls and ceiling are plain, in gray, white or beige tones. Black, chocolate and navy blue finishes are best reserved for large rooms. The floor can be covered with parquet, laminate or carpet in a discreet color. Metallic sheen, chrome handles, polished wood, mirrors - all this reflects light and visually enlarges the space.

Accents in the form of paintings, exquisite floor lamps, ceramic figures, indoor plants are allowed. Bed linen should be silk or cotton, without noticeable prints. Spot LED lighting around the perimeter and bedside sconces with matte milky white shades will help create a calm atmosphere and tune in to a serene sleep.

Classic small bedroom

Lovers of luxury will appreciate this style. Marshmallow shades of white, pink, peach, light lilac are ideally combined with aristocratic golden and silver patterns, plaster moldings, columns and crystal chandeliers.

Carved furniture, painted in ivory tone enamel, creates a majestic atmosphere of the palace. The head of the bed can be upholstered in soft leather. Windows should be covered with curtains made of brocade, velvet, satin to match the overall design. The same fabrics are suitable for a canopy. The bedspread can be jacquard, with shimmering patterns. The abundance of light in a "precious" frame will turn an ordinary small room into a truly royal bedchamber.

Small bedroom in Provence style

Provence style is the best fit for romantic natures who love the atmosphere of the south of France. All interior details should be designed in pastel colors - white and blue, pink, light purple, pale green and beige. From textiles, it is preferable to choose as if burnt out, faded chintz with a small floral ornament, in tiny polka dots, a cage, rhombuses.

Furniture for a small bedroom in the Provence style is desirable to choose simple and without pretentiousness. It can be made of light wood without varnish or painted white (possibly with a slight tint) color.

Small loft style bedroom

Initially, the term "loft" was used to refer to former factories, industrial warehouses and offices that were converted into housing. They are characterized by the lack of decoration on the walls, a lot of free space, high ceilings and large windows. However, some ideas from this style may well be useful to freshen up the interior of a small bedroom.

For example, instead of boring wallpaper or plaster, only bare brickwork, concrete panels or their imitation are left. A simple bed without legs is set directly on the plank floor. Everything should look like it's a freelance artist's temporary home: no decorative frills, just a couple of black and white prints, a thin-framed mirror and high-tech lamps for lighting.

For the sake of visually enlarging the room, you can expand the window, turning it into a panoramic one, and order a wardrobe with glossy metal doors. The role of curtains in the loft should be performed by blinds or simple curtains with vertical folds.

Small minimalist bedroom

This is the best option for a small bedroom. It completely lacks any frills - no curls, patterns, decor or decorations. One or two similar in spectrum or contrasting colors in the design, perfectly even, smooth surfaces, clear furniture, lamps of simple geometric shapes - all this greatly saves space. Such a simple and modern solution will appeal to business people with a rational approach to life.

Scandinavian style small bedroom

The first association with Scandinavia is transparency and coolness. Decorating in airy whites with light brown or gray-blue accents is worth choosing for rooms facing south and located in warm climates. This finish will make it easier to endure the heat, create a feeling of freshness and lightness. A Scandinavian-style bedroom should be reminiscent of snow-capped mountain peaks and icy rivers.

Colors

Since we are talking about bedrooms with a small area, the main attention should be focused on a light palette. Colors close to white reflect more light and visually expand the room.

Small bedroom in white

No wonder this color was chosen by nature itself to cover the sleeping earth in winter: it lulls, relaxes, creates an atmosphere of purity and peace. In a completely white room, sleep will come in a matter of minutes, and if you want to add romance, just use colored lighting.

Small bedroom in blue tones

Decorated in heavenly shades relieves nervous tension and cools the body. It will be appropriate if the apartment is often hot. For active, active people, this color will help to dissipate energy a little and enjoy dreams.

Small bedroom in green tones

Herbal, light green, emerald, marine - they all create a feeling of freshness, provide a welcome rest to the eyes and nervous system. This is the easiest color to perceive, because it is located right in the middle of the rainbow spectrum.

Green is the color of life, and in the bedroom you should combine it with calm natural shades: gray, brown, sandy yellow, turquoise or lavender.

Small purple bedroom

A soft purple tone appears in the sky in the evening, after sunset. It envelops the horizon with a light haze and seems to invite you into the fairy-tale realm of dreams. In the bedroom, it can be a great addition to green, yellow or pink elements. Purple also looks harmonious with white, beige and cream colors.

Small bedroom in yellow tones

This sunny color is perfect for a bedroom that lacks warmth (for example, there is no window or it faces north). Sand, lemon, saffron, golden will make the room bright and warm. Shades of yellow are uplifting and fill life with joy, and they are best combined with white, green, blue, purple or brown.

Small gray bedroom

Gray is the calmest and most neutral color. It is much softer than black, so it will not look bulky. This is a wonderful background for any bright accents, and in itself it has conciseness and restraint. Light or silver gray options are suitable for all interior styles.

Finishes and materials

The choice of materials for finishing the bedroom is practically unlimited. Humidity in this room is normal, exposure to ultraviolet radiation and other factors is minimal. The only important condition that should not be neglected is the safety of materials: they must not contain harmful impurities and emit toxic fumes.

Floor

The floor in the bedroom is best made of warm material. It can be wooden parquet, laminate, carpet. To make the space seem more voluminous, it is worth abandoning dark and non-uniform colors, and laying boards or other vertical drawings perpendicular to the window. The carpet should blend in with the main shade, or completely cover the room, otherwise it will "cut" and reduce it.

Walls

The best choice for a small bedroom - light walls, one-color or with a small, almost imperceptible pattern. This can be whitewashing, painting, decorative plaster (possible with reflective sparkles), wallpaper, wood paneling and cork.

For a loft style, it is better to choose white or grayish masonry (similar to sand-lime brick or sandstone).

Ceiling

To visually make the bedroom taller, the ceiling should be glossy. It is good that it reflects the light from the side sconces. A three-dimensional effect can be achieved by placing a mirror stretch film in a drywall “frame”.

For a romantic design, a ceiling in the form of a blue or starry sky, with a 3D space pattern and elements that shimmer in the dark, is suitable. Images of planets, large figures, rich colors in the design of a small bedroom should be avoided.

Textile

The choice of fabrics must be coordinated with the overall style. But in any case, they should not be dark and contain large prints. Curtains are best purchased light, airy, made of synthetic fabrics.

Bed linen in a small bedroom would look better in one color, diluted white shades or gray. To sleep comfortably, it is better to give preference to high-quality natural fabrics made of cotton, silk or linen.

Placement of furniture, appliances and accessories

When everything is in order with the decoration and the bedroom looks more spacious, it's time to think about how to use its real area with maximum benefit. Each type of room has its own recommendations and features.

Small square bedroom

If all sides are of equal length, there is no particular problem. So, the bed can be installed in the center, with a headboard to a blank or furniture wall, on the sides - high chests of drawers or pencil cases, and on the other wall - a wardrobe. It is good to save space with an elevation-podium with retractable shelves, inside which it is easy to hide clothes, bed linen and various things needed in the household.

Narrow (rectangular) small bedroom

To visually balance the room, on a long wall it is worth sticking photo wallpapers with a three-dimensional perspective, and on the opposite wall, for example, install a cabinet with a glossy surface. Narrow walls can be expanded with horizontal stripes, which can be not only painted, but also functional, in the form of wide shelving shelves.

Small custom bedroom

Attic rooms, corners left after zoning or redevelopment, as well as lofts converted from non-residential premises have an unusual layout. They can use interesting furniture - round, oval, triangular beds, chests of drawers with beveled edges, cabinets of non-standard configuration, hammocks, hanging shelves. This approach will provide not only comfort and convenience, but also give the interior of the bedroom a unique uniqueness.

Lighting

In the sleeping area, it is better to do without bright overhead light and overhanging large-sized chandeliers. To create a soft atmosphere, a few spotlights on the ceiling, wall sconces and one or two comfortable floor lamps on the bedside tables will be enough.

Reflective particles or golden patterns in wall decor can add extra shimmer.

Design of a small bedroom in Khrushchev

In Soviet apartments, the usual area of ​​a bedroom is 8-9sq.m. Of course, there is not much space, but it is quite possible to place the furniture and accessories necessary for sleeping.

Achieving this is simple: you need to install a podium, raise the height of the cabinets to the ceiling, arrange storage space under the bed, and also expand the window sill, turning it into an additional work area or ladies' corner.

In children's bedrooms, it makes sense to use bunk and folding structures.

Integration with other premises

In conditions of cramped apartments, a good solution may be to expand a small bedroom due to adjacent rooms.

Combination of a small bedroom with a living room

This option is usually used to divide the studio into a living room and a bedroom. At the same time, the area for the bed can simply be closed from prying eyes with a canopy, a screen, a tall wardrobe, and can also be located behind a plasterboard or plywood partition.

Combination of a small bedroom with a balcony or loggia

Existence of an exit from a bedroom on a loggia or a balcony gives the chance to increase the useful area. You can remove the window and the door, and insulate the area facing the courtyard as much as possible by installing modern double-glazed windows.

Small bedrooms - photo

Our photo gallery will help you find interesting solutions for the design of a small bedroom. The photo shows the most successful options for finishing, placing furniture and decor. Get inspired!

Design of a small bedroom 5-6 sq.m.

Design of a small bedroom 7-8 sq.m.

Design of a small bedroom 9 sq.m.

Design of a small bedroom 10-11 sq.m.

Design of a small bedroom 12 sq.

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Video: Small bedroom - interior ideas

Design of a small bedroom: the best interior ideas

The bedroom is a room where guests rarely drop in, and the owners themselves spend mainly night hours in it. But let's look at the bedroom from the other side. This is a place where we are left alone with our thoughts and dreams, we feel calm, going over the events of the past day. Here we are pleased to be ourselves, to rest from the hustle and bustle. The small size of the bedroom does not interfere with making grandiose plans, and this requires inspiration. It will not come to the dull bedroom of boring people. So, we will attract him and future achievements with an interesting interior!

Pros and cons of a small bedroom

In a cozy bedroom, where “walls help” to relax and enjoy a peaceful sleep, a person feels happy and protected. It is not necessary that these walls be located at a maximum distance from each other. A room of 6-8 m2 will become the most beloved corner of the house with no less success than 2-3 times larger, only it needs to be decorated with skill and love.

The negative point of the small size of the room is the impossibility of placing a large bed in it, a spacious closet. You will probably be left without a dressing table or chest of drawers, hang a large picture and many shelves, or lay a luxurious fluffy carpet.

But there will be less cleaning. And it is not difficult to solve the problems of increasing the functionality and convenience of a sleeping room with design solutions. This will require more effort. You will have to think through every detail of the interior, color design, placement of light sources, and to beat the presence of a window as profitably as possible. But financial investments in the design of a small bedroom will require less. This is an undeniable plus.

Interior style for a small bedroom

So many people, so many tastes. You should not change your desires for the sake of the small size of the room and depersonalize its interior. For a small room, there are also successful design options.

Bedroom in contemporary style

Characteristic details of the modern interior of a small bedroom are:

Calm colors of walls and textiles, discreet light, no unnecessary details, good mood and soundness contribute to rest.

In the style of minimalism

The name of the style predetermines the avoidance of all frills, which is very useful for a small bedroom. Such a design solution will appeal to business and energetic people; in the rest room, nothing should distract from relaxation, easy morning awakening. Sleep will successfully restore strength in a room setting where:

The approach to the choice of accents should also be rational, their presence is designed to save space, have a semantic load. Several photographs, paintings, laconic vases will do.

Japanese style

The people of the Land of the Rising Sun are known for their practicality and ability to see beauty in small details. Their dwellings are visually spacious, filled with air and light. They leave the negative behind the threshold, enjoying peace at home. The main principle in the arrangement of the bedroom - a room, according to the Japanese, with a philosophical meaning, is minimalism. Its interior is complemented by:

The austerity of the furnishings is diluted with exquisite textiles, a light screen, paintings that are never hung on just one wall.

In the Scandinavian style

The inhabiting Scandinavian Normans prefer simplicity and restraint. Life in the harsh conditions of the North gave rise to a desire for light and light colors, respect for nature. "Cold" Scandinavian style is popular in the design of a small bedroom. It is characterized by:

Stencil paintings on the wall, figures of animals or birds, light curtains, blinds, carpet on the floor look spectacular in such an environment.

In the style of Provence

Elegance and tension of the Provence style will taste romantic, dreamy, harmonious. A cozy optimistic bedroom with cheerful curtains will dispel sad thoughts. The atmosphere, combining classics and rural life, will distract with positive, tranquility. In a room with such a design, uncontrollably pulls every evening. Waiting for you here:

Graceful lamps, rattan decor items, wicker baskets, flowers look wonderful against the background of pastel colors.

The design of a small bedroom

on the design of the bedrooms of small sizes constantly work and achieved good results in this field. There are many options for choosing the option that suits the size and features of your particular bedroom. General rules have been formed, following which you can visually increase the space, make the bedroom functional, comfortable and cozy. Here are the main postulates:

No need to be afraid of non-standard solutions, experiments to optimize space. A window sill can be involved in the usable area, a second tier can be used to organize an extra bed, and the working area should not be abandoned.

Numerous "Khrushchev" and "panels" have not gone down in history yet. Millions of people live in such houses and interior designers pay close attention to their design.

Small bedroom in Khrushchevka

. for a small room and meeting the taste of the owners. A cramped space will expand a large amount of light, a light palette of walls, the absence of bulky furniture, the correct arrangement of furnishings and decor.

Such simple tricks as abandoning bedside tables (at least one of them), replacing table lamps with pendant sconces, using the “accented wall” technique, choosing spotlights instead of a volumetric chandelier give good results.

In panel house

of the bedrooms in houses of this type is slightly more than in Khrushchevs. They have higher ceilings and more light. For rooms, a ceiling of several levels is applicable; dark colors, bright colors and various textures are allowed in the design of the walls. In the bedroom of a panel house, bedside tables will be placed next to the bed, which will be decorated with elegant lamps or decorative elements.

Often in the "panels" rooms are elongated, but their area is quite enough for the manifestation of imagination, techniques of mixing styles, zoning. The furniture set includes wardrobes with hinged doors, dressing tables with elegant ottomans. The main thing is to correctly place objects and choose colors.

Color solutions

Nobody will argue with the fact that only light, pastel colors are suitable for a small bedroom. Yet there are exceptions to this rule. Sometimes rich, colorful accents enliven the interior, add warmth and comfort.

It is necessary to distribute bright islands that contrast with the general background of the room carefully and carefully according to the principle: less is better ... Eye-catching objects can be:

Color is a great manipulator. Using "cold" colors is easy to achieve a feeling of coolness and freshness. If a lot of sunlight enters the bedroom window, the decision to decorate it in blue, gray, white will be the right one. Warm shades will fill the room with the sun, they are perfect for a room with a north-facing window.

Lighting

For a small space, a large chandelier is not required; spotlights or small ceiling lights will provide basic lighting. They are often equipped with a dimmer - a light brightness control.

It is desirable to provide additional local lighting in the area of ​​the head of the bed for ease of reading. Table lamps on bedside tables, sconces, small floor lamps will cope with this task. It will be convenient to illuminate the mirror located in the bedroom and the work area where the laptop, books, and hobbies live.

To provide spot lighting, spotlights are useful - lamps with adjustable light direction. Pertinent for the bedroom will be shades made of dense materials that scatter light well. Their shape depends on the size of the room, if they are minimally helped out by flat forms that do not take centimeters of volume, or lamps on brackets.

Decorative lighting is a privilege of large bedrooms, but it can also be applied to small rooms. Illumination of niches, paintings, figurines will not damage a small bedroom. Its decoration will be a variety of night lights and, of course, romantic candles.

Furniture for a small bedroom

The bed is the central and honorable object of the bedroom. Having conveniently arranged the head of the interior, we begin to move along the path of arrangement. Since the dimensions do not allow to fit a large closet or chest of drawers into the room, we will use drawers under the bed frame to place things and bedding. Models with a lifting mechanism and a box for storing linen are also very convenient.

Breaking the stereotypes and purchasing bedside tables not of the standard low “height”, but high, even up to the ceiling. It's practical and original. Between the high cabinets, a wall cabinet will fit in well - and now the whole composition is ready, which is time to play with light and bright accents. A dressing table, necessary in the bedroom, will be replaced by an elegant console and a wall mirror. For important little things, hinged shelves that do not occupy floor space are useful.


Furniture manufacturers, taking into account the demand, produce small-sized and functional racks, chests of drawers, cabinets, and poufs. Without overloading the room with furnishings, calling on the help of imagination and armed with catalogs of furniture companies, you can create a wonderful interior for your favorite bedroom.

Combination of functional areas

It's hard to believe, but, nevertheless, in a small bedroom it is quite possible to attach a work area or a relaxation area to the main sleeping area.

Bedroom-study

The space between the bed and the working area is separated by a plasterboard partition, which has a decorative function or becomes a rack with additional shelves. The table is chosen with a lightweight design without bulky cabinets and drawers.

It is possible not to separate the mini-office with a partition, but to zone it with color, focusing on the wall near the table. The sleep zone is emphasized by a small carpet, local lighting, and a light canopy.

Bedroom with seating area

Armchair and floor lamp are logical in the concept of the lounge. Decorate and add comfort to the fireplace or its imitation. In order for these items to harmoniously fit into the interior, you need to consider their location and follow the chosen design style. A wicker chair, a white fireplace portal, directional light will form an intimate cute corner.

It is very good if a small bedroom has a loggia or a balcony. With their help, the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room increases, a spacious area for rest or work is organized on the additional territory.

Listen to the advice of experienced designers, look through magazines and website pages, ask your friends for advice. But choose with your heart, it will tell you the right decision and whisper in which interior it will rest easy. A comfortable bed, colors that are pleasing to the eye, and furnishings selected with taste and love will create an aura of peace that will ensure good rest and good sleep.

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