Easy Guide on How to Style a Small Bedroom

Summary:

Even a small bedroom like yours requires the same level of attention and effort as a master bedroom. Every furniture you choose should be functional, it should be personalised and reflect you. Still confused about how to achieve it? Read our detailed guide below on how to style a small bedroom.

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Have a small bedroom? We totally understand how difficult it can be to design it and add everything that is a must in your dream room. But think of it this way, too, that it is a blank canvas, and you have the control to design it just the way you want. You’re totally in control of what will go on, the colour scheme, and everything that you want this room to be. And even with this compact space, there is so much that you do.

This is the whole reason why we’ve curated this guide on how to style a small bedroom. We are going to share ideas of beds, mattresses, layout, and so much more. With our expert guide and tips, you will be able to create a clean, airy, and statement room that has:

• Storage
  
• Floor space
  
• Clutter-free visual
  
• Decorative elements
  
• Comfort and calm
  
• Minimal yet classy look

So, let’s start this blog so you can make the best out of your small bedroom. It will definitely be something you can learn from creating a space that is what your dream room looks like.

Quick-Wins For Small Bedrooms

• Plan the room as much as you can to ensure you have to right measurements.
  
• Your bed truly matters. It’s the largest piece; choose size and storage carefully.
  
• Think vertical. Walls, doors, and corners are storage goldmines.
  
• Use light & layers. Pale bases + texture + warm lighting = airy but cosy.
  
• Edit relentlessly. Fewer, better items beat a crowded room every time.
  

Steps For How To Style A Small Bedroom

1. Measure Like a Pro (and Avoid “Almost Fits” Syndrome)

Grab a tape measure and note:

• Room length & width
  
• Ceiling height
  
• Door swing (and clearance—standard is ~60 cm; pocket/sliding doors save space)
  
• Window size & sill height (affects headboard height and curtain choice)
• Radiator & socket positions
• Place for wardrobes, drawers, and desks

2. Choose The Right Bed (The Small Room MVP)

Common UK bed sizes for ottoman storage beds, divan beds frames, and upholstered beds.

Tip: In small rooms, a Small Double often delivers the best comfort-to-space ratio.

Bed Frame Types Compared

3. Does The Mattress Matter In A Small Room?

Yes, it truly does. It is the space where you sleep, and that’s why you need to ensure you have the best mattress. It should:

• Support your spine
  
• Regulate temperature
  
• Improve sleep quality
  
• Provide motion isolation
  

Mattress Types At A Glance

Firmness Guide:

• Side sleepers: Medium to Medium-Soft
  
• Back sleepers: Medium to Medium-Firm
  
• Stomach sleepers: Medium-Firm to Firm
  
• Couples with different needs: Medium hybrid; consider a topper for one side.

Edge Support: In small rooms, you’ll sit on the edge more (putting on shoes, accessing storage). Reinforced edges prevent roll-off and make the bed feel larger.

Mattresses we recommend:

• Memory foam mattresses
  
• Pocket sprung mattresses 
  
• PillowTop mattresses
  
• Orthopaedic mattresses
  

4. Layouts That Actually Work For A Small Bedroom

Bed Centred With Two Narrow Bedside Tables

• Works in rooms where the width allows ≥240 cm (for a Small Double).
  
• Choose 20–30 cm-wide bedside tables or wall shelves if tight.
  

Bed Pushed Slightly Off-Centre + One Bedside

• Keep 60 cm clearance on the main access side.
  
• Use a headboard with built-in shelves to replace the missing table.
  

Bed Under the Window

• Use a low headboard; ensure window access for cleaning & blinds.
  
• Great for rooms with long, narrow footprints.
  

Daybed Along The Long Wall

• Adds floor space by day; ideal for guest/office hybrids.
  
• Layer cushions to convert to a sofa look.
  

Doors, Drawers, & Walking Paths

Wardrobe: Allow 60 cm door swing or pick sliding doors.
Drawers: Leave 50–60 cm clearance to open fully.
Walkway: Maintain ≥ 60 cm on at least one side of the bed.

5. Smart Storage Ideas For A Small Bedroom 

• Ottoman bed — hides bulky items (duvets, luggage, off-season clothes).
  
• Wall-to-wall wardrobes to the ceiling — add above-door cupboards for suitcases.
  
• Over-bed bridging units — great above a low headboard; keep shelves shallow (20–25 cm).
  
• Floating bedside shelves — visually light; choose with lip/rail.
  
• Behind-the-door racks — hooks for bags/robes; slim shoe pockets.
  
• Under-bed drawers/boxes — if not using an ottoman; label for quick access.
  
• Corner shelves — plant + speaker + book stack without stealing floor area.
  

Small Bedroom Do’s & Don’ts

Do

• Choose a small double for couples if your room is tight.
  
• Use mirrors and tone-on-tone colour.
  
• Go for wall lights or headboard lighting to free surfaces.
  
• Pick closed storage for the messy stuff; display only what you love.

Don’t

• Buy a bed before measuring clearances.
  
• Over-layer cushions and throws.
  
• Block natural light with heavy, dark window dressings.
  
• Forget the edge support on your mattress if you sit at the side often.
  

FAQs

What colours work best for small rooms?

• Off-white
  
• Warm beige
  
• Pale greige
  
• Misty light grey
  
• Soft sage green
  
• Powder blue
  
• Blush taupe
  
• Creamy ivory
  
• Pale dove grey
  
• Whisper pink (very pale)
  
• Airy sky blue
  
• Sandstone beige

Are Ottoman beds worth it for small rooms?

Yes, especially if you lack a linen cupboard. They swallow bulky items you’d otherwise store in plain sight. Choose a gas-lift with an adequate rating for your mattress weight and measure the ceiling height to ensure the lid opens fully.

What headboard height works best?

Under 110 cm keeps small rooms feeling open and avoids clashing with low sills or windows. If you want drama, try a wider, lower headboard rather than an extra-tall one.

Can I put the bed under a window?

Absolutely. Choose a low, upholstered headboard and ensure the window can open freely. Pair with blackout blinds to control light.

Which mattress is best if my partner moves a lot?

Memory foam or a hybrid with good motion isolation. Look for zoned support and reinforced edges so the surface feels usable right to the sides.

Do mirrors really make small rooms look bigger?

Yes, place a large mirror opposite or adjacent to the window to bounce light. We would recommend using mirrored wardrobes, as they are powerful but need regular cleaning.

How many cushions are “enough” in a small room?

Two pillow shams + one accent cushion. More looks luxurious in photos, but becomes clutter in daily life.

What lighting works best for small rooms?

• Flush or semi-flush ceiling lights
  
• Wall-mounted reading lights
  
• LED strip behind headboard/wardrobe
  
• Dimmer switches
  
• Warm white bulbs (2700–3000K)

What storage ideas save the most space?

• Floor-to-ceiling wardrobes
  
• Over-bed bridging cabinets
  
• Floating bedside shelves
  
• Under-bed drawers/boxes
  
• Behind-the-door hooks/racks