There are plenty of ways to make a small bedroom look nice that don't involve buying a Murphy bed. To maximize your creativity, start with the layout of furniture in your small bedroom.
If you have a too-small bedroom that's only 10- by 10-foot, don't worry. Built-in shelves, desks, and storage will give you additional space. A monochromatic color scheme can also minimize clutter.
Mix up ambient, accent, and task lighting to style your small bedroom in luxury. Install a canopy above the bed for a more intimate and cozy feel. For a maximalist aesthetic in a small space, round or oval-shaped pieces will help you create a good flow.
Depending on whether you have more vertical or horizontal space, we've got unique small bedroom ideas to inspire you.
Maximize Vertical Space

To optimize a small bedroom, consider using vertical space in areas like corners for a cozy reading nook or workspace. Installing tall bookcases or wall shelves adds extra storage without consuming much floor space. This approach is ideal for bedrooms with high ceilings, minimalist aesthetics, and limited furnishings, like the one pictured with a serene green color palette and expansive city views.
Use Light Colors

For an illusion of a larger, brighter room, incorporate light colors like whites, light grays, or soft pastels. Ideal for minimalist-inspired spaces, this approach creates an open and airy atmosphere, as demonstrated in the image with its clean, predominantly white aesthetic accented by subtle pops of color from plants and books.
Opt for Multi-functional Furniture

Maximize space with furniture that serves multiple purposes, such as a bed with integrated storage drawers or a desk that doubles as a vanity. Ideal for modern and stylish bedrooms, this approach is illustrated in the image with the black and white room featuring a wooden dresser that doubles as an art station.
Incorporate Mirrors

Use mirrors for a spacious feel, either by positioning a large mirror opposite a window or with mirrored furniture. Perfect for elegant bedrooms, this design strategy is illustrated in the image that showcases a sleek mirror next to a stylish double bed and minimalistic décor.
Utilize Under-Bed Storage

Incorporate under-bed storage containers or choose a bed frame with built-in storage drawers to maximize storage and maintain an uncluttered space. The image showcases this concept with its warm and inviting wooden bed and integrated drawers, creating a serene and welcoming ambiance.
Install Wall Sconces

Save nightstand space and enhance a room's ambiance by installing wall sconces rather than using table lamps. Ideal for cozy bedrooms, this approach helps maintain a relaxing and restful environment as illustrated in the image that features a comfortable bed with soft lighting.
Choose Floating Furniture

Choose floating shelves, desks, or nightstands to save floor space and create a clean, uncluttered look. Perfect for minimalist designs, the image portrays a bedroom with minimal furnishings and color palette, showcasing a chic bedside table as a prime example.
Hang Curtains High

Create the illusion of taller walls and a more spacious room by hanging curtains close to the ceiling. Ideal for serene bedrooms, this design tip is illustrated in the image that features a bed with blue-and-white plaid comforter and well-placed window with beige curtains.
Embrace Minimalism

Maintain an open and airy space by keeping décor and belongings to a minimum. This philosophy is suitable for clean, minimalistic bedrooms, and is exemplified in the image featuring a simple but serene bedroom with predominantly white elements and ample natural light.
Use Vertical Lines

Draw the eye upward and create the illusion of height using wallpaper or artwork with vertical lines. Ideal for contemporary bedrooms, the image showcases a chic black-and-white-themed room that utilizes contrasting elements to emphasize the space's verticality.
Opt for Sliding Doors

To maximize space and enhance modern aesthetic, consider installing sliding doors in your bedroom or closet areas. Ideal for small apartments or compact bedrooms, sliding doors provide a sleek solution without compromising style. Pair these doors with contemporary furniture and a minimalist design for a cohesive look. Complete the transformation by incorporating soft lighting and soothing color palettes, creating a welcoming and tranquil retreat.
Create a Focal Point

Emphasize a focal point in your bedroom, such as a headboard, with bold patterns or colors to add visual interest. This approach works well in small or cluttered spaces, directing attention to a single area while giving the room an attractive anchor. Pair your focal point with complementary accents, such asPatterned throw pillows and window treatments. Ensure the surrounding furniture and accessories are kept simple and minimalistic for best results.
Incorporate Clear Furniture

Add a touch of elegance and create the illusion of spaciousness by choosing clear furniture pieces. Suitable for modern or eclectic design styles, clear materials like acrylic and glass work well in small bedrooms or shared spaces. Opt for items such as transparent bubble chairs, glass side tables, or clear storage solutions. Enhance the overall look by adding stylish cushions, decorative objects, and artwork, resulting in a sophisticated and airy atmosphere.
Opt for Smaller Furniture

Select smaller-scale furniture to suit the proportions of your bedroom, preventing overcrowding and maintaining a spacious feel. Recommended for compact spaces, consider cozy beds, slim nightstands, and modest storage solutions that harmonize with the room's dimensions. Utilize neutral color schemes and minimalistic styles to enhance the sense of openness. Consider accessorizing with potted plants, soft lighting, and inviting textiles to create a warm and cozy oasis.
Utilize Corners

Maximize your bedroom's potential by strategically placing furniture in corners or using corner shelves for storage and display. Ideal for compact spaces or rooms with limited layout options, corner solutions offer both aesthetic and practical benefits. Combine corner storage with complementary décor elements, such as wall art, potted plants, or decorative baskets. Opt for a unified color palette and simple design elements to create a cohesive and visually appealing atmosphere.
Hang Wall Art Strategically

Create a sense of height in your bedroom by arranging wall art at eye level, drawing the eye upward and making the room feel larger. This technique works well in small or narrow spaces, encouraging a more open and airy ambiance. Choose artwork that reflects your personal style and complements the existing color scheme and furniture. Round out your bedroom design with coordinated accessories, soft textiles, and a mix of lighting types for added depth and dimension.
Choose Low-Profile Furniture

Opt for low-profile furniture, such as platform beds or low dressers, to enhance the perception of space and openness in small bedrooms. This approach works well with modern, minimalistic, and Scandinavian design styles. Pair low-profile furniture with simple, clean lines and natural materials for a cohesive aesthetic. Enhance the overall atmosphere with light and airy fabrics, plants, and a calming color scheme, for a serene and inviting retreat.
Use Light and Airy Fabrics

Achieve an open and welcoming atmosphere in your bedroom with light and airy fabrics for bedding, curtains, and rugs. Ideal for small spaces or rooms with limited natural light, these fabrics help create an inviting and refreshing ambiance. Choose light colors, sheer materials, and soft textures to elevate the room's aesthetic appeal. Coordinate your fabrics with simple, clean-lined furniture and natural accents for a harmonious and soothing design.
Incorporate Built-Ins

Install built-in shelves, desks, or storage options in your bedroom to maximize space and create a clean, streamlined appearance. Ideal for small or multi-functional spaces, built-ins offer both practical and aesthetic benefits. Opt for furniture that complements the existing design and color scheme. Enhance your built-ins with decorative objects, artwork, and stylish storage solutions, like baskets or bins, to maintain an organized and visually appealing space.
Layer Lighting

Create depth and make your bedroom feel more substantial by layering different types of lighting, such as ambient, task, and accent lighting. Ideal for compact spaces or rooms with limited natural light, layering helps to visually expand the area. Combine floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces to achieve the desired effect. Choose lighting fixtures that complement the existing furniture, color scheme, and decorative elements to create a warm, cohesive, and inviting atmosphere.
Choose a Monochromatic Color Scheme

To create an open and cohesive look in small bedrooms, adopt a monochromatic color scheme throughout the walls, furniture, and decor. Ideal for minimalist and contemporary styles, and compatible with various bedroom spaces. Pair dark furnishings with refined artwork and statement pieces, such as the elegant black bed and blue duvet featured in the photo. Aim for a subdued and sophisticated aesthetic.
Opt for Foldable Furniture

To optimize space in small bedrooms, utilize foldable or collapsible furniture, like a folding desk or stool. Best suited for children's rooms and multipurpose spaces, this idea caters to various styles. Incorporate wooden accents for a warm and homely atmosphere, and accessorize with colorful pillows, tasseled blankets, and decorative elements, as seen in the cozy, child's room featured in the photo.
Hang a Gallery Wall

Add visual interest and depth to small bedrooms by creating a gallery wall with various sizes of art and frames. Ideal for eclectic, bohemian, or modern spaces. Feature a mix of personal artwork alongside statement pieces and consider incorporating a wooden stool as a makeshift bedside table. Echo the harmonious and tranquil ambiance from the photo, with a pastel yellow and grey color scheme.
Use Recessed Lighting

Save space and create a clean, uncluttered look with recessed lighting, making small bedrooms appear more open and airy. Suited for modern and minimalist designs, this technique works best when paired with large windows and a breathtaking view. To complete the look, opt for an understated artwork, like the historical building in the photo, and complementary white and wooden furnishings.
Incorporate Stripes

Enhance the illusion of width or height in small bedrooms by introducing striped patterns in bedding, curtains, or rugs. Ideal for various styles, such as modern or coastal. As seen in the photograph, the combination of striped walls with a red and white quilt creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Accentuate the space with artwork, wooden furniture, and a stylish lamp.
Add Greenery

Infuse small bedrooms with life and color by incorporating small plants or succulents, without taking up much space. Ideal for Scandinavian, natural, or minimalistic styles. Achieve a serene atmosphere with harmonious colors like sage linen duvet covers, white pillows, and wooden furnishings. Emulate the calming vibes of the photo with luscious green plants, relaxing seating, and elegant paintings.
Choose a Bold Rug

Anchor small bedrooms and add visual interest by selecting a bold, patterned rug. Suited for various styles, especially bohemian and eclectic. Furnish the space with minimalistic decor and wooden accents, like the framed art and red end table featured in the photograph. Consider maximizing the room's potential with a spacious wardrobe and plenty of natural light.
Opt for Nesting Tables

Implement versatile and space-saving side table options by choosing nesting tables for small bedrooms. Ideal for transitional, contemporary, and modern styles. Create a cozy and pleasant atmosphere with neutral-toned bedding, a playful accent pillow, and a tidy arrangement of tables and vases. Follow the example of the photo, where pure white tables provide a soothing and comfortable environment.
Hang a Statement Light Fixture

Draw the eye upward and establish a focal point in small bedrooms by installing a statement light fixture, such as an elegant chandelier. Suited for opulent, glam, or traditional styles. Achieve a sense of lavish elegance by mimicking the ornate bedroom in the photo, with pink walls, lush white bedding, and cascading decorations. Further enhance the space with a warm wooden floor and arched doorway.
Create Zones

Visually divide small bedrooms into separate zones, such as a sleeping area and workspace, with area rugs or furniture arrangements. Ideal for multipurpose spaces and open-concept layouts. Incorporate complementary furniture like a wooden chair, pink accents, and natural light. Emulate the simplicity and comfort of the well-designed small bedroom photographed, featuring a cozy bed and relaxing atmosphere.
Install a Window Seat

To create a cozy reading nook and extra storage, install a window seat in your bedroom, like the one seen in this serene image with minimalist decor. This idea works best in small bedrooms. Add a cushion, a soft throw, and a few pillows for ultimate comfort. Don't forget to include storage underneath to maximize space.
Choose a Loft Bed
Opt for a loft bed like the one shown in this peaceful bedroom with organic elements and a mountain photo to provide additional living or storage space underneath. This idea is perfect for apartments or small spaces. Style the area below with tall bookshelves, potted plants, or a comfy chair for added function and aesthetic appeal.
Add a Pop of Color

Brighten up your bedroom by incorporating a bold accent color through throw pillows, artwork, or even an unexpected chandelier. As seen in this room with blue walls, McDonald's-inspired decor and white contrasting accessories, a single pop of color can make a significant impact. This idea works well for modern or eclectic aesthetics.
Use an Oversized Piece of Art

Transform your bedroom with an oversized piece of art to create a focal point and make the room feel more spacious, like the black and white abstract painting in this cozy room. Pair the artwork with a simple chandelier and matching pillowcases. This idea is suitable for minimalistic or contemporary styles.
Choose a Daybed

Maximize space in your bedroom by opting for a versatile daybed, like the one in this charming image, that can double as a sofa during the day. This idea is perfect for studio apartments or guest rooms. Style the daybed with pillows and a patterned blanket, and place it near a wooden shelving unit for a cohesive look.
Add Textured Accessories

Enhance your room's depth and interest by incorporating textured accessories, such as a sheepskin rug or a knit blanket. As seen in this stylish bedroom with a green and yellow duvet cover, these textures add warmth and visual appeal. This idea works well for cozy, modern, and boho-chic styles.
Install a Built-In Desk

Create a dedicated workspace in your bedroom by building a desk into the wall or under a window, like the one in this grey-white-orange themed bedroom. Pair the desk with a matching dresser and a rug to complete the look. This idea is perfect for small rooms or apartments where space is limited.
Hang a Canopy

Add a cozy touch and elevate your sleeping area by installing a canopy above your bed, like the sheer netting seen in this image. Decorate the bed with white and yellow pillows for a hint of color. This idea is perfect for romantic or boho-chic styles and will create an intimate sleeping space.
Incorporate Geometric Patterns

Include geometric patterns in your bedding or artwork to add visual interest and a modern touch to your bedroom, like the striped blanket and brown and white pillows seen here. This idea works well in contemporary and minimalistic styles and will add dimension to any room.
Choose a Headboard with Storage

Upgrade your bedroom with a headboard that offers built-in shelves or drawers for additional storage, like the wooden headboard in this sophisticated image. Use the shelves to store books, glasses, or decorative items. This idea is perfect for small spaces and works well with modern and rustic designs.
Add a Wall Mural

To enhance the visual appeal of small bedrooms, add a vibrant wall mural as a focal point. Ideal for minimalist spaces, a colorful mural adds an exciting touch and depth to the room. Pair this with complementary bedding, a cozy bed, and textured accents like bamboo blinds. A wooden side table with red flowers and a bench near the window enhance the inviting atmosphere.
Opt for a Murphy Bed

Maximize space in dual-purpose rooms with a Murphy bed that folds away when not in use. Combining a living and sleeping area, a white and blue color scheme and a beach-themed wall art create a tranquil atmosphere. Enhance the space with a wooden dining table, brown leather chair, and comfortable reading nook, featuring a bookcase and chair.
Create a DIY Storage Solution

Customize storage for small bedrooms with a DIY pegboard organizer for a personal touch. Incorporate wooden accents, a metal bed frame, a hanging bedside lamp, and simple decorative items around the room. Use warm brown tones for a comforting ambiance, perfect for relaxation.
Hang Pendant Lights

Illuminate small bedrooms with pendant lights to save surface space and add a modern flair. Ideal for black and white themed rooms, a grey marble pendant light creates a warm atmosphere and pairs well with wooden and beige accents. Complete the look with an abstract wall art and a cheerful flower arrangement on a bedside table.
Add an Accent Wall

Introduce depth in small bedrooms with an accent wall, featuring bold colors or patterned wallpaper. Pair this with a neutral-toned bed, a minimalistic bedside table, a black-and-white sketch, and a window adorned with a black vase and a curtain. This versatile approach suits various styles and aesthetics, including a possible adjacent bathroom.
Opt for a Trundle Bed

Save space in children's rooms or guest spaces with a trundle bed for accommodating visitors. Enhance storage with under-bed drawers, accessorize with a patterned rug, and incorporate a map-themed décor for a sense of adventure. Pair this with a wooden desk, a US map, and a cozy wicker stool.
Incorporate Ladders

Utilize decorative ladders for storage, display, or access to a loft bed in small bedrooms. Add visual interest with contrasting colors and materials, like a black wooden ladder against a light wall. Complement the aesthetic with wooden furnishings, framed pictures, and a small potted plant for a touch of nature.
Hang a Swing Chair

Create a cozy reading nook in small bedrooms with a hanging swing chair for a playful twist. Accompany this with a fiddle leaf fig tree, a striped rug, and a chandelier to emit a warm glow over the space. Enhance the serene atmosphere with neutral colors, wooden accents, and a textured white bedding.
Choose a Circular Nightstand

Incorporate a round nightstand in small bedrooms to create an organic look and save space. Pair this with a queen-sized bed, white linens, and beige accents. Add charm with a black-framed mirror, wooden dresser, and carefully arranged trinkets, while maintaining a balance between form and function.
Incorporate Vintage Pieces

Add character to small bedrooms with minimal space through vintage furniture and décor. Create an eclectic touch with a brass lamp and photo frames on a black minimalist nightstand. Accompany this with a monochromatic white and beige color palette, a simple vase with white blossoms, and muted lighting for a calming environment.