Bedroom ideas – 40 ways to upgrade the aesthetics in your sleep retreat

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to the best bedroom ideas, where we reveal our favorite ways to create the ultimate sanctuary for rest and relaxation. Whether you live in a cozy cottage, modern loft, or heritage home, we've curated a compendium of bedroom ideas to suit every style of property. 

As your home’s most private spaces, bedrooms can be a lot of fun to decorate. With nobody to judge, you can try out decorating techniques, trends and color schemes that you may not be ready to reveal downstairs. And we’ve dug deep to find truly unique and inspiring bedroom ideas to get you started. 

Whatever you have in mind for your next bedroom remodel, we’ve got it covered – not just with pretty pictures, but with seriously good design tips, too. From advice on how to work print and pattern for small bedroom ideas, to learning how to layer like a pro and the secrets to drapery success, we’ve asked some of our most trusted designers to share their years of bedroom decorating expertise.   

40 bedroom ideas to inspire an update

Whether you're planning to revamp your existing main bedroom or starting from scratch, make this your go-to resource for all the inspiration, advice and trends you need to transform your bedroom into a haven of tranquillity and style. 

Read on for all the essentials, from bedroom lighting and bedroom flooring ideas to soothing color schemes and statement headboards – and do check back regularly, we’ll be adding fresh bedroom finds, hot-off-the-press.

1. Bring the light in with mirrored glass

You’ll no doubt be aware of the light-boosting superpowers of decorating with mirrors, but they can also be used to channel elegance into a bedroom, as Kara Childress well understands. ‘Here, we chose a set of tall mirrors, flanking either side of the bed, to create a light-filled bedroom with a neutral color palette that sets the stage for a calming environment,’ she explains.  

We love how the open-shelf bedside tables allow a glimpse of mirror down to the floor, while the subtly foxed glass offers a softer reflection won’t dazzle in the morning sun.

Kara Childress

Texas-based interior designer Kara Childress marries timeless style with Old World European charm for liveable homes that exude comfort and personality. As Principal and Founder, Kara works closely with top architects, builders, and vendors in all aspects and phases of her design creations.  

2. Make a statement with high-impact Art

Don’t save your favorite art for public spaces, there’s a lot to love about waking up to art that makes you happy. The bigger the piece, the bolder the statement. Decorating with artwork can create a captivating focal point, drawing the eye and commanding attention within the room. Choose colors that set the tone for the entire room.

‘Introducing personality through outsized art makes a bold statement, infusing spaces with character and vibrancy. Whether it's an oversized painting, sculpture, or installation, I love adding those pieces to serve as captivating focal points, reflecting the unique essence and style of the person and the environment they adorn,’ says interior designer Victoria-Maria Geyer.

Victoria-Maria Geyer

Self-taught, with an unparalleled holistic vision, Victoria- Maria Geyer has been passionate about decoration and design since her early childhood. Based in Brussels, this German interior designer founded her agency in 2008. Victoria-Maria enjoys combining patterns, materials and eras, creating colorful interiors that are a source of infinite joy.

 

3. Introduce beading overhead

If you’re considering being more creative with the ceilings in your home, the bedroom is a great place to experiment as you’ll get to enjoy it in its full glory while lying in bed! There are loads of interesting bedroom ceiling ideas, from paint techniques like stenciling and color-blocking to wallpaper and crown moldings. 

The Vawdrey House’s Sophie Chapman explains why she’s a big fan of beading to create fancy ceilings. ‘A decorative beaded panel on a ceiling has the effect of drawing the eye upwards to create a feeling of spaciousness and often grandeur, while somewhat conversely also providing a cocooning cozy effect within a room,’ she says.

In this master bedroom, Sophie and her team wanted to keep the scheme clean, subtle, and sophisticated so opted to lay a traditional Victorian-style beading in a more contemporary linear pattern, which provided a nod to the heritage of the building with an Art Deco twist. 

‘This simple yet striking effect can be achieved by gluing and tacking a simple timber ogee bead to the ceiling, readily available at any builder’s merchant, and painting over the top in the same color as the ceiling for a harmonious subtle effect,’ she explains. ‘For maximum impact, opt to make the panels between the beading pop by painting in a strong contrasting color which can also look incredible!’ 

Sophie Chapman

A founding member of The Vawdrey House, Sophie oversees the design team, bringing her energy and creativity to projects. She has a BA in Interior Design & Environmental Architecture. When not curating unique furniture proposals or styling, Sophie loves nothing more than digging for treasure at antiques fairs and French brocantes. 

4. Install a drinks station

Channel the sophisticated air of a luxury hotel by installing drinks facilities in your bedroom – mini bar optional! ‘I like to call this feature a "morning bar," and it's a luxurious addition to any bedroom suite. Someone may want to include this in their bedroom if it happens to be located a fair distance from the kitchen or if they want to enjoy more time in their bedroom and get as much as they can out of the space,’ says Carrie Moore, co-founder of Carrie Moore Interior Design.

This bedroom benefits from two adjoining sitting areas – one indoors, one outdoors – and the kitchen is a flight of stairs and a few corridors away. ‘As well as being convenient, the drinks station also works to make the bedroom feel like a luxurious getaway locale or a posh hotel suite,’ adds Carrie. ‘Rich walnut, marble, and polished nickel add to and heighten the vibe. It also features a coffee maker, a sink, a dishwasher, a wine fridge, and ample storage, all within a very small footprint.’ 

Carrie chose pocket doors to enable everything to be shut away when not in use and achieve a restful space come bedtime. ‘Things to consider when planning your own morning bar are desired appliances, materiality, lighting needs, ideal storage, and whether or not plumbing is needed,’ she says.

5. Make it extra cozy with bedside curtains

Adding curtains around a bed is how savvy designs ensure a cozy and intimate sanctuary. Curtains can be hung from ceiling-mounted rods or installed on a canopy/pelmet style frame, adding texture, color, and softness to the space. 

‘Adding drapery not only provides extra privacy, but also turns your bed into a cozy cocoon, secluded from the rest of the world (or at least the rest of the house!),’ says interior designer, Kaitlin McQuaide. ‘Always choose a fabric with some weight to it, or add additional lining, to make sure the appropriate amount of light and sound is blocked out, and at least 2x fullness for your drapery to achieve a luxurious look.’

Kaitlin McQuaide

Kaitlin McQuaide established McQuaide Co in 2018. A full-service interior design and consulting studio based in New York City and Nantucket, she and her team create unique spaces that are intentionally designed to inspire life's adventures.

6. Wake up happy with high-energy pattern

Embracing vibrant, high-energy patterns in your bedroom decor will infuse your mornings with positivity and set the stage for a productive and fulfilling day ahead. For this bedroom in his own Palm Springs’ hideaway, interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard chose bright and breezy Schumacher wallpaper, and a zigzag floor covering by The Rug Company.

‘As an advocate for creating bedrooms as sanctuaries reflecting individual personalities, I embrace the transformative potential of wallpaper in infusing spaces with character and vitality. I chose a green palm leaf motif for my bedroom, evoking freshness and vitality,’ he says. ‘For me, it sets an optimistic tone from the moment I wake up.’

Martyn also enjoys layering patterns, whether in pillows, drapery, or other elements, enriching visual depth and intrigue, fostering an atmosphere that enlivens the senses. ‘Juxtaposing bold patterns against clean, neutral backdrops and solid-colored furniture creates spaces that are both vibrant and inviting,’ he explains.

Martyn Lawrence Bullard

Los Angeles-based Martyn Lawrence Bullard is an award-winning designer renowned for his broad range of styles and ability to create globally inspired, sophisticated, and inviting interiors. He’s a TV personality and has designed collections in collaboration with prestige brands like Schumacher, Ann Sacks, The Rug Company and La Cornue.

7. Free-up bedside space with wall-mounted lights

‘If you have a smaller bedroom with limited space on your nightstand or just hate clutter, wall sconces can be a great choice. You can free up valuable space and create a more organized look by eliminating the footprint of a bulky table lamp,’ says interior designer, Nina Jizhar. 

Wall-mounted bedside lights can also provide more directional illumination for reading without shadows or glare – go for fittings with adjustable arms to enjoy targeted bedroom lighting. 

Nina Jizhar

Nina Jizhar’s boutique interior design firm in the San Francisco Bay Area welcomes all design styles. Nina believes that a home should reflect its owners’ lifestyle and should be a true collaboration and partnership between designer and client. She has been in the design industry for many years, beginning her career working for a commercial interior architecture firm.

8. Use rugs to zone the room

Introducing rugs to zone a bedroom is a sophisticated way to delineate distinct areas such as the sleeping space, dressing area, or reading nook, while also infusing the room with texture, warmth, and visual interest.

‘Here, we used a circular rug to provide a safe landing for a comfy reading chair and ottoman which would otherwise feel as though they were floating within the room. The bed has its own rug helping to define that area,’ says Kevin Sawyers, of Sawyers Design.

‘We love placing items from a countertop or coffee table on a tray to make them look collected and not messy or random. A rug can serve the same purpose by denoting an item’s proper place.’

10. Make a statement with a platform bed

A platform bed will elevate the design of your bedroom, quite literally, by lifting the mattress up and creating a strong focal point that commands attention. Selecting striking materials like reclaimed wood or boldly patterned upholstery will further amplify the visual impact. Consider including built-in storage options, such as drawers or shelves, to enhance functionality and reduce the furniture requirements elsewhere and free-up floor space.

‘Platform beds add a sense of modernity and sophistication,’ says Ginger Curtis, founder of Urbanology Designs. ‘To get it right, consider the size and style of the bed to complement the room's overall theme. Opt for a statement piece, complementing colors, and quality materials. My personal favorite is a platform bed with an oversized ledge at the bottom of the bed to add cushions or books for styling, etc.’

Ginger Curtis

Ginger Curtis is the author of Beauty By Design (Harvest House Publishers) and a sought-after speaker and design and lifestyle expert. She and her Texas-based team create relaxed modern interiors that are rooted in authenticity, grounded in luxury, and anything but ordinary.

11. Encourage bedtime reading with library shelving

We’ve all got the memo that reading books is more conducive to a good night’s sleep than blue-light emitting screens but the temptation to scroll is high. Making space for a library nook in your bedroom is a strong visual reminder to reach for a book and put that phone on Do Not Disturb.

Ginger Curtis is onboard. ‘A library-style nook can transform a corner of your bedroom into a cozy and functional space. Incorporate built-in shelves or a bookcase, comfortable seating like a plush armchair or window seat, and adequate lighting for an inviting reading environment,’ she says. 

Choose bookshelves in materials that complement your bedroom decor style and offer ample storage for your collection – there’s nothing relaxing about overflowing, cluttered shelves. Even if you’re too tired to read anything come bedtime, the mere presence of books in the bedroom can foster the sense of tranquillity and relaxation found in a library.

11. Create flexible displays with a picture ledge

Introducing a raised picture ledge as a distinctive framing option for a bed offers a unique touch to room decor. ‘Unlike traditional headboards, this alternative allows for dynamic personalization, enabling effortless display changes. Keeping the ledge shallow prevents overcrowding, maintaining a sleek and balanced aesthetic in the space,’ says Sophie Chapman, associate of The Vawdrey House. 

‘To enhance visual cohesion and comfort we suggest bringing the wall below the shelf forward the depth of the shelf so that when lying in bed below you don't have the disconcerting sensation of a floating shelf above your head. This will also allow you to sit up comfortably in bed,’ she advises.

12. Go for glam grandeur with a modern four-poster

There’s nothing like a four-poster bed for making a striking impression. Imagine this bedroom by Linda Eyles Design but with a regular bed – it would still be amazing, just not quite so ‘wow’. Even without drapery, four-poster beds can provide a sense of enclosure and privacy, perfect for achieving a cozy and intimate sleeping environment. Add sheers to boost the effect.

‘Four-poster beds make me think of tradition, but drama, too. They dominate a space,’ says Linda. ‘Using a modern four-poster bed in this room gives it a timeless, almost architectural quality that will be stylish for years to come. This bed is sleek, but the scale and grandeur create a strong focal point among the "prettier" elements surrounding it. It's a quiet glamour.’

13. Add shape with on-trend scallops

Scallops continue to make waves within interior design trends, adding movement and shape in their wake. Inspired by the gentle curves of the seashell, scallop details can be incorporated in various ways in the bedroom, from furniture and accessories to wall treatments and rugs. 

Daley Home has embraced the fluidity of scallops is a big way in this bedroom, going for generous curves to really make a splash. ‘We went through several mock-ups to get the right scallop shape and scale,’ recalls co-founder Shelby Van Daley. ‘Finding the right scallop in an “off-the-shelf” piece can be tough, so we opted to have this bed custom-made by a local craftsman. We love how we were able to use the scallops to soften the large-scale bed in this room.’ 

Shelby Van Daley

Led by husband-and-wife team, Shelby Van Daley (lead designer) and Kasey Van Daley (business manager), Texas-based Daley Home is known for classic, layered homes that are designed to be liveable. Founded in 2017, the couple and their team offer full-service interior design, leading clients gracefully from idea to reveal. 

14. Layer natural materials and textures

Layering natural materials and textures in the bedroom is a sure-fire way to create a calm, inviting retreat. ‘Layers of warm, rigid materials, delicate linens, and lush textures creates a serene atmosphere and respectful connection to nature,’ agrees interior designer, Kara Childress, whose signature style is natural and relaxed. ‘The subtle range in color and texture throughout this bedroom feels effortless, while also leaving space for personalization through accessorizing,’ she adds.

This style of layering starts with a neutral base palette, such as warm whites, earthy browns, and soft grays. Then source different materials and textures in your chosen shades to add depth and visual interest. Go for a variety of textiles, like comforting wool blankets, crisp bed linen, and squishy sheepskin rugs – you’re aiming for a tactile experience that’s cozy and cocooning. Timber furniture, rattan storage, and woven baskets will provide organic texture and warmth. 

15. Combine traditional styling with modern comforts

Is it possible to combine traditional styling with modern-day comforts and convenience? The founder of The French Bedroom Company Georgia Metcalfe believes it is: 'It’s important to enjoy tradition, and experience luxury and comfort at the same time. Traditional styling can work perfectly with modern comforts,' she says. 'The bedroom is often the nucleus of a family home: family cuddles, bedtime stories, Sunday morning chats and for comfort when unwell.' 

And it's especially true at the moment she adds, 'In these modern times, the bedroom offers modern comforts. Choose high thread count sheets, upholstered headboard ideas to lean on when reading in bed, and deep pile carpet or sheepskin rugs underfoot.'

16. Pick a color scheme that aids rest

As beautiful as you want a bedroom to be, its decor scheme must aid sleep. Bedroom color ideas that are known to be restful tend to be fresh and light, too, so think blue or green bedroom ideas if you want to sleep better, enhance space and light, and create an invigorating feel for the mornings.

However, add contrast and you can still create interest. Accents of red in this green room offer a punchy interruption to a monochromatic scheme, with the red bed frames add a sense of fun, and white acting as a useful conduit throughout the patterns to ensure it doesn’t all become overwhelming.

17. Or play to the coziness of black

Black bedroom ideas are a daring choice, but this color needn't feel cold. In fact, this chic choice can feel warm and cozy with a few vital elements, as showcased in the room above. 

The first is the one-color scheme – if you put black with black, it can actually feel warmer than if you add white to the scheme. The second is the presence of warm wood in the room, in both the flooring and furniture. This is heightened in this bedroom by the use of mottled warm metallics. At night, of course, a warm lightbulb will ensure the light reflected off the ceiling is warm and welcoming. These design tricks work really well with gray, too. 

18. Layer white on white

White bedroom ideas achieve the opposite of black – flooding a room with light, making it feel larger and airier. However, white needn't be as bland as it sounds – in fact, the secret to success is to layer different tones of white – and other pale neutrals – one over the other, as here.  

‘That’s more interesting than just pure white,’ says artist and color expert Annie Sloan. ‘Lots of different whites create a softer look, mixing painted white furniture, white linens and white cottons. You can’t go wrong.’

19. Embrace the trend for reds

Just as daring as black, red bedroom ideas can change dramatically, depending on the time of day. On a bright morning, they will feel incredibly rich; on cold, dull afternoons or dark evenings, they will feel cozy and cocooning. 

‘Small rooms, even poorly lit, can take more color than you can imagine,’ explains Patrick O’Donnell, Brand Ambassador at Farrow & Ball. ‘These shades are ideal in bedrooms with darker furniture – to make them soften into the walls.'

Any shade of red will look fabulous with crisp white. Use it on the ceiling and woodwork, add in white bedlinen, and textured accessories to feel warm and cozy. A great example of, what colors make a bedroom feel warmer.

20. Bring in subtle pattern with wallpaper

This pretty and delicate oak leaf botanical print from Common Room is a wonderful example of a small-scale wallpaper that feels perfectly suited to a bedroom. 

It has a classic, timeless feel, which when combined with a relaxed denim blue linen upholstered bed and vibrant orange lacquer bedside cabinet makes for a truly unique and fresh look. 

The gentle, pared-back design allows the bold use of color elsewhere to not overwhelm the room. All the different bedroom color ideas work happily together in harmony. The tactile nature of the textile artwork, contemporary applique cushion, linen headboard, and woven lampshade all add to the welcoming and cozy feel.

21. Use vibrant accent colors to bring a neutral scheme to life

Here, the prettiest of pinks has been introduced into this serene neutrally decorated guest bedroom with a lightness of touch. From the scalloped crown on the bed, the bolster, quilt, artwork, lampshade, and curtains to the pink line detail in the natural woven rug, these pinks all work together to create a coherent feel without overwhelming the room. 

The painted bed adds an elegant structure at the center of the scheme in a vibrant contrast to teal blue. And, just as with the pink touches, elements of pattern sit together harmoniously without overpowering.  The eye is invited to dance across the space taking in all these delightful elements. Who wouldn't wish to stay here as a guest for the weekend? 

22. Use a fabric panel as a striking statement wall-hanging

A simple length of fabric can be hung to create a stunning wall hanging, as an alternative to a decorative headboard or bedroom wallpaper ideas used for a feature wall. 

It creates a stunning focal point in the room and is the perfect starting point as inspiration for the color palette, as here with the pinks and greens which continue throughout the rest of the room. 

It also serves to add an extra touch of textile softness, which is always a desirable element in a bedroom space. Simply create a channel at the top and bottom of the fabric length and use wooden batons to create a weight at the bottom and a structure at the top from which to hang the wall hanging. 

Alternatively, a thin metal curtain rod attached to the wall can be used to hang the fabric from at the top. 

23. Bring a touch of nostalgia with country style prints

This dreamy traditional bedroom idea feels like the most perfect destination for a country house weekend escape. Far from fusty, this a bright and breezy take on a traditional scheme. A modern classic feel. 

From the plump eiderdown atop the bed and the fabulously floral curtains, to the witty wavy lampshades, pop of vibrant coral red and welcoming window seat from which to look out and enjoy the view. 

The colors too feel fresh, light and airy, welcoming you in and inviting to you stay for a night (or two). 

24. Pick pastel shades set the tone for an elegant and delicate mood

For those who love a touch of romance and prettiness, this cottage bedroom is for you. A graceful, almost trellis-like small-scale trailing floral design is an ideal choice for a bedroom. 

The elegant feel is enhanced with the combination of pastel tones. The hues in the delicate wallpaper design are echoed throughout the room, with the blue upholstered headboard and bolster, and in the blue tinted glass lamp base and pinky-toned wood of the bedside table. 

All the elements have a lightness of touch and combine to make for a light and airy feel. 

25. Paper the ceiling

For those who prefer a more neutral look, it’s wise to think about ways of adding details to a space to prevent it from feeling too stark. A textured throw or cushion may be the first ideas that spring to mind, but have you considered decorating the fifth wall? 

Our bedroom ceiling ideas explore the creative possibilities for this under-appreciated surface area in the home.

All too often the ‘fifth wall’ is left untouched but exploring bedroom ceiling ideas can be a great opportunity to incorporate color or pattern.

26. Choose the right bedroom flooring

It’s the first thing you step onto in the morning, so picking the perfect bedroom flooring ideas are vital. 

Wooden floors are ideal - great if you want to embrace master bedroom ideas with bath, providing a durable and hardwearing surface, and you can accessorize them with bedroom rugs to ensure comfort, color and layering are catered to. Or for the luxury of carpet to enjoy a bedroom that’s soft and warm underfoot. It comes in a huge range of colors, so there’s a lot of choice, too.

27. Bring in some Scandi style for a timeless look

Scandinavian style is a classic. Too well loved to even call in a trend nowadays. Its crisp color schemes and harmonious forms seem to attract homeowners like magpies to milk bottle tops.

'Scandinavian design is distinctive for several reasons: pared-back, unfussy, uncluttered spaces and a winning combination of form and function create aesthetically pleasing, yet practical interiors,' explains lifestyle expert at Contura, Catharina Björkman. 

The main purpose of Scandinavian design is to improve daily life. Furniture is therefore not only about stylish elegance but also about functionality – it should serve a purpose and stand the test of time. Invest in simple, uninterrupted, handleless designs for an authentic Scandinavian appearance.

28. Work in wood for warmth

When it comes to bedroom flooring, nothing is more timeless than wooden flooring. Carpets are having a resurgence but in terms of versatility, hardwood flooring will always be on trend.

Whether it’s a sleek finish or classic floorboards left natural or painted, wood can work in contemporary or traditional schemes. Lay a tactile rug for added warmth and coziness underfoot.

29. Choose a mural wallpaper for wow factor

Adding a wall mural or textured finish to your bedroom wall is easily achieved using wallpaper and is a great choice for hiding imperfections on an existing surface due to the thicker nature of the paper. 

Textured, or slightly raised, prints create an interesting focal point and are perfect if you're looking for luxury bedroom ideas.

As these papers can be a little pricier than flat designs, consider just going for a feature wall and using paint on the remaining areas to keep within budget.

30. Define zones in a master suite

Zoning a bedroom can so easily be done using rugs. Ground your sleep space with a large area rug placed right under the bed, use a second rug to zone a dressing area or desk space and you could even go in with a couple of narrow bedside rugs too.

They add plenty of softness underfoot, plus are a great way to bring in some color and pattern. And rugs are simple to switch out so they give you lots of opportunities to change with trends, tastes and seasons.

31. Add comfort with rugs

From a small bedside design to a large-scale floor covering style, a rug will also help to soften hard floors and add color and texture.

Lean in to bohemian bedroom ideas with plenty of color and pattern or look at their modern counterparts with geometric and abstract prints.

32. Use symmetry for a neat look

When it comes to bed ideas, decorating with symmetry is a fail-safe design rule.

Frame the bed with a bedside table on each side of it to create a mirror image on each side of the axis. The room should be centered symmetrically around the bed with an equal distribution of objects and furniture around it. 

Pair your items, but they don’t necessarily have to be identical – if they are of the same size and a similar color they’ll have the same visual weight.

33. Introduce a dressing table to a bay window

Add luxury and create a dedicated space for pampering within your bedroom’s layout. Find the perfect spot for your table, whether it’s in a bay window or cleverly slotted into a small alcove. 

In a larger bedroom, consider dividing the space into an area for dressing and one for sleeping. In terms of dressing room ideas for your bedroom, a classic dressing table helps create a boudoir feel, but a simple bureau, console or desk could be perfect for more modern bedroom ideas.

34. Make the view the feature with window dressings

Achieve perfect levels of light and privacy with curtains or blinds for a good night’s sleep. Go for layers like they do in the best hotels to offer maximum flexibility when it comes to light levels. 

Combine heavy curtains or black-out blinds with sheer voiles. Set the style tone for the room with your bedroom curtain ideas – simple white Venetian blinds suit a contemporary, pared-back scheme, or heavy curtains add luxury in more lavish spaces.

35. Maximize natural light

Everything in this serene neutral bedroom from interior designer and homeowner Louise Bradley is designed to enhance natural light and a sense of space. 

Keeping the floor uncluttered all around the bed creates a sense of movement and freedom, while the discreet curtain rails are a curved shape, which gives added depth to the translucent drapes. Up the comfort factor in winter by adding soft rugs and a heavier set of curtain on top of sheers.

36. Layer up textures and materials

The palette in this room is ultra simple, yet it feels anything but plain – instead, a sense of texture and softness is created by expertly combining grey tones. ‘The trick is to layer materials for subtle contrast,’ says Bernie de Le Cuona, founder of textiles brand de Le Cuona. 

‘It’s all about mixing natural textures to create depth and a sense of cocooning. Everything should be a joy to touch – even with plain designs, the result will then be a flow of “pattern”.’ 

You could combine silk sheets and pillowcases with more rustic linen throws, for example, or try taffeta curtains in place of the white linen here – its volume gives a romantic look. Lastly, a pale wood floor adds vital warmth to the otherwise cool color scheme.

37. Add an armchair to create a sanctuary of peace

Setting up a corner in your bedroom for sitting will instantly create a relaxing atmosphere – it’s a visual cue that puts you at ease. ‘I find armchairs incredibly pleasing in bedrooms – they create curves and give a feeling or roundness,’ says Deborah Bass, creative director of Base Interior.

38. Keep it rustic with natural flooring

Natural floor coverings such as sisal, seagrass and coir bridge the gap between carpet and wood, giving a natural look, but with the texture of carpet. Use with striped wood and earthy, neutral tones for a modern take on a rustic bedroom scheme.

Or pick a more nautical appeal – the fresh blues and whites will make your space feel welcoming and bright.

39. Wallpaper the bedroom ceiling

If you love the maximalist trend, try papering up to the ceiling for a wow effect – it can help you create a super-relaxed space.

Going bigger and more dramatic doesn't have to mean giving up on rest which, after all, is what a bedroom is for. 

'The mystical Hula Swirl Gold Noir was inspired by the soothing symmetry of waves so it’s ideal for spaces where we want to relax, like the bedroom,' says Paula Taylor, Graham & Brown Colour and Trends Specialist. 'The glimmers of gold encapsulates movement in the design on black fibrous textured paper and balances both nature and opulence.'

40. Go for a soft pink theme that's always relaxing

For quite some time now bedrooms, like many rooms of the house, have become fairly minimal and almost masculine. Now, feminine charm is back with a bang.

Go unabashedly girly in your boudoir by choosing pink patterned wallpaper. Opt for a bold pattern to keep the room grown-up, rather than veering into little girl's bedroom ideas territory.

FAQs

How do I make my bedroom stylish?

To make a bedroom look stylish, it's vital that it's uncluttered and has enough storage. Part of this process will include decluttering, but ensuring your bedroom furniture is the right size – not too big nor too small – and that it is fit for purpose is vital. 

That done, you can begin to focus on what might be your focal point, whether a majestic bed, beautiful bedroom wallpaper ideas or perhaps even an antique rug. Styling a bed will help your bedroom feel stylish almost more than anything else, though other touches to add might be an armchair – whether you use it or not, it will make the space feel more relaxing and inviting – and sumptuous curtains, which can add pattern, block out light, and give your bedroom a hotel appeal.

If you are also wondering 'how can I make my bedroom look expensive?' then you might want to consider small decorative details, such as bedroom rugs, statement lampshades, affordable art or layers of pillows and cushions.

How do you style a bedroom?

It is the most private room in the house, so your decorating approach can be the most personal, but there are still some key considerations when planning a bedroom revamp. Take note of our design rules to help you create a bedroom sanctuary to escape to at the end of a long day.

Before you start, think about how you will use the room. It’s unusual for a bedroom to be only about sleep – there are often other functions to consider, such as dressing, applying makeup or even a workspace. Look at your belongings to assess how much storage you require. Which items of furniture are key to your room and must be included? Pare back as much as possible. Do you want a calm and tranquil retreat that’s designed as a quiet and soothing space, or a room that feels invigorating and refreshing first thing in the morning?

What should every bedroom have?

Every bedroom should have practical, functional storage. It is important to keep your bedroom clear so you can relax and unwind at the beginning and end of the day. 

Write a list of everything you need to store in the bedroom so that you can work out how much drawer and hanging space you require. Look at fitted versus freestanding for choices. Fitted will answer the problem of awkward corners and uneven walls, and freestanding pieces act as focal points. Combine both styles for a more relaxed look.

Think tall and use the vertical space your room has to offer. Consider deep shelves high on the wall for things that aren’t used frequently, and make the most of tall cupboards and wardrobes. Make it dual-purpose so that furniture works harder. Use the top of a chest of drawers as a dressing table, or build a window seat with hidden storage underneath.

Choose a statement bed and position it so that it’s the first thing to grab your attention as you enter the room. Opt for a design that will immediately define the style of the rest of the space, whether it’s a glamorous bateau or a glossy platform. Add a headboard or hand a piece of striking art above the bed to draw the eye. To make the headboard a real feature, go for something super-sized, or upholster it in a bold color or print. Use lighting to make sure your bed takes center stage. Consider an oversized pendant light above the bed, or hang a pair on either side to visually frame it.

Make a statement with curtains and blinds. Use color, pattern, and texture to turn them into an integral feature of the bedroom’s overall design. Invest in quality for the best finish and performance. High-quality, heavy curtain material offers greater light, heart, and noise insulation, and will last longer.

Invest in anti-allergy bed linen. Choose bedding that is specially designed for allergy sufferers to reduce irritation while you sleep. Of course, remember to change your bedding regularly to get rid of dust mites and allergens, too.