HHello — I’m Courtney (Melissa’s daughter). I recently moved into a small room in my sister and brother-in-law’s new townhouse, and living in a compact space has taught me a lot about what works when decorating and organizing a small bedroom. Below are five essential elements that make a tiny bedroom functional, comfortable, and attractive.
Here are five things that every small bedroom needs:
Storage Ottoman Sources: 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 // 10 // 11 // 12
1. Furniture that Maximizes Space
In a small room, choose furniture that fits the space and makes the most of it. I had a narrow wall that needed a tall freestanding wardrobe to store clothing and shoes. A low dresser might have fit, but it would have left unused vertical space and tempted clutter on top. A tall wardrobe keeps things contained behind doors and frees up visual space.
Double-duty furniture is especially valuable. In my room an upholstered storage ottoman works as a nightstand, extra seating, and storage. Whether it’s multifunctional or simply designed to use vertical space efficiently, the right pieces can make a small bedroom much more organized and livable.
Hook Rack Sources: 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7
2. Wall Hooks and Shelves
Vertical surfaces are prime real estate in a small bedroom. Install wall hooks for bags, robes, and jackets, and add shelves for books, plants, and decor. A shelf-and-hook combo near the door keeps essentials at hand without taking up floor space. Using walls for storage and display frees up the floor and keeps the room feeling open.
Layers Sources: 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5
3. Layers and Texture
Small bedrooms can be cozy and inviting when you add layers and texture. Use pillows in different fabrics, a soft throw for chilly nights, floor-to-ceiling curtains to create a tucked-in feeling, and a rug to anchor the bed. Textiles add warmth and visual interest without crowding the space, making a compact room feel like a comfortable retreat.
Lighting Sources: 1 // 2 // 3
4. Light
Natural light makes a room feel larger. My room benefits from a wide window above the bed and a sliding door to a small patio, and I open the blinds every morning to let daylight fill the space. If natural light is limited, layer artificial lighting: overhead fixtures, wall or clip-on sconces, and a bedside lamp. Multiple light sources create pleasant ambience and improve function in a small room.
Mirror Sources: 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6
5. Reflection
A mirror is essential in a small bedroom. I added an over-the-door full-length mirror and the effect was dramatic. It lets me check outfits and, more importantly, reflects light and creates a sense of added depth. Placing a mirror opposite a window or glass door multiplies natural light and visually expands the room.
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Update 2018: See my tiny bedroom tour, my Seattle studio apartment tour, and my 500-square-foot one-bedroom apartment update for more ideas and inspiration. You can also follow me (Courtney) on Instagram to see apartment updates and behind-the-scenes moments.
Related Posts:
How to Get Organized in a Small House
Small Bedroom Ideas
Courtney’s Tiny Bedroom Tour
Courtney’s Seattle Studio Apartment Tour