Bedroom Decorating Ideas

The Ultimate Guide to Stylish and Functional Bedroom Design

By Interior Designer TRACY SVENDSEN | Published on September 10, 2023 | 

Bedroom Decorating Ideas: Welcome to the ultimate guide to designing a stylish and functional bedroom. Do you long for a space that exudes comfort, relaxation, and style? If so, you’ve come to the right place.

This comprehensive decorating guide will take you on a journey to transform your bedroom into a sanctuary that reflects your style while maximizing functionality. From choosing the perfect color palette to selecting furniture that maximizes storage, we will provide expert tips and insights to create a stunning bedroom that meets your daily practical needs.

Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist aesthetic or a cozy, rustic vibe, we will cover many styles and inspirations to suit your taste. Join us as we explore innovative design ideas, discuss the latest trends, and showcase versatile furniture and decor pieces that will elevate your bedroom to new heights. Get ready to create a space to unwind, rejuvenate, and truly feel at home. Feature image above courtesy of Middlefork Luxury Homes.

Importance of a Well-Designed Bedroom

Your bedroom is more than just a place to sleep. It’s a space where you can escape from the stresses of daily life and find solace and tranquility. That’s why creating a stylish and functional bedroom is essential.

A well-designed bedroom can significantly impact your mental and physical well-being. When designing your bedroom, consider factors such as the size of the room, your preferences, and the overall atmosphere you want to create. By carefully curating the elements in your bedroom, you can create a space that promotes relaxation, restful sleep, and a sense of serenity.

Factors to Consider When Designing a Bedroom

Before diving into the specifics of bedroom decorating ideas, assess the size and layout of your bedroom to help you make informed decisions about furniture placement and the overall flow of the space. Next, think about your style and the atmosphere you want to create.

Are you drawn to a modern, minimalist aesthetic or prefer a cozy, rustic vibe? Understanding your style preferences will guide your color schemes, furniture, and accessories choices. Lastly, remember to consider your daily practical needs.

Do you need ample storage for clothes and belongings? Are you someone who enjoys reading in bed and requires good lighting? By considering these factors, you can design a beautiful bedroom that meets your functional requirements.

Modern Bedroom Ideas
Image courtesy of Houzz

Bedroom Decorating Ideas & Choosing the Right Color Scheme

The color scheme you choose for your bedroom can significantly impact the overall atmosphere and mood of the space. It’s important to select colors that promote relaxation and restful sleep. One popular option is a neutral color palette.

Shades of white, beige, and gray create a calm and serene environment, perfect for unwinding at the end of the day. These colors also provide a versatile backdrop for adding pops of color through accessories and artwork.

If you prefer more drama, consider opting for deep, rich colors like navy blue or emerald green. These hues can add a sense of luxury and sophistication to your bedroom. Just be mindful of balancing the intensity of these colors with lighter shades to avoid overwhelming the space.

Remember to consider the natural lighting in your bedroom when choosing your color scheme. You can experiment with darker shades with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. However, if your bedroom lacks natural light, lighter and brighter colors can help create the illusion of a larger, more airy space.

Warm & Inviting Bedroom Design
Image courtesy of West of Main

Choosing a Bedroom Design Style

When choosing a bedroom design style, there are many options to consider. Each style has unique characteristics and elements that can help you achieve your desired look and feel for your bedroom. Whether you’re drawn to a cozy cottage vibe or a sleek and modern aesthetic, there’s a design style to suit your taste. Some popular options include:

1. Traditional Bedrooms

Traditional bedroom design is timeless, elegant, and sophisticated. It’s a style that blends classic elements with modern touches to create a warm and inviting space. Start with a neutral beige, cream, or white palette for a traditional bedroom look.

Add depth and interest to the room by incorporating rich, warm colors like deep reds, navy blues, or forest greens. Regarding furniture, traditional bedrooms feature pieces with curved lines, ornate details, and rich finishes. A four-poster or sleigh bed can make a statement in a traditional bedroom, while a matching set of nightstands and a dresser can provide ample storage space.

Mix and match furniture pieces from different eras to create a layered and eclectic look. Incorporate soft, plush materials like velvet, silk, or chenille to add texture and warmth to the space. A Persian rug or a hand-woven tapestry can add depth and character to the room. Traditional bedrooms feature classic elements like crystal chandeliers, ornate mirrors, and antique-inspired lamps. Displaying family heirlooms or vintage finds can also add a personal touch to the space.

Traditional Bedroom Design Ideas
Image courtesy of WB Homes, Inc.

2. Modern Bedroom Decorating Ideas

A modern bedroom design may be perfect if you prefer a sleek and contemporary aesthetic. Modern bedrooms typically feature clean lines, minimal clutter, and a focus on function. To achieve this look, start with a neutral color palette of whites, blacks, and grays.

Add color through accessories like throw pillows or a statement piece of artwork. Incorporate functional furniture pieces like a platform bed with built-in storage or a sleek dresser with plenty of drawers.

Light fixtures with clean lines and simple designs can add to the modern aesthetic. Finally, keep the space uncluttered by minimizing decor and accessories, giving the room a streamlined and polished feel.

Modern Bedroom Decorating Ideas
Image courtesy of Ferris Rafauli

3. Art Deco Bedrooms

Art Deco is a style that originated in the early 20th century and is known for its bold geometric shapes, rich colors, and luxurious materials. Art Deco may be the perfect style if you want to create a glamorous and sophisticated bedroom. Here are some ideas to get you started: 

Bold Colors and Geometric Shapes: Art Deco is about making a statement, so don’t be afraid to use bold colors and geometric shapes in your bedroom design. Consider painting your walls in a rich jewel tone like emerald green, sapphire blue, or ruby red.

Add geometric shapes through wallpaper, artwork, or textiles. For example, a bold black and white geometric wallpaper can create a stunning accent wall behind the bed. 

Luxurious Materials:  Art Deco is a luxurious style, so incorporate materials like velvet, silk, and fur to add texture and depth to your bedroom. Use velvet for your headboard or accent pillows, and add a faux fur throw for a touch of glamour. 

Mirrored Furniture:  Mirrored furniture is a hallmark of Art Deco style. Consider adding a mirrored dresser or bedside table to reflect light and create a sense of spaciousness in your bedroom. You can also add mirrored accents through accessories like mirrored jewelry boxes or picture frames. 

Art Deco Accessories:  Remember to add Art Deco accessories to complete the look of your bedroom. Consider adding a vintage Art Deco clock, a geometric patterned rug, or a set of Art Deco-inspired vases. These small touches will tie the room together and give it your desired Art Deco style.

Art Deco Bedroom Decorating Ideas | Wendy Labrum Interior Design
Image courtesy of HGTV

Throwing it back to the roaring ’20s, Art Deco is glamorous, sophisticated, and ornate. Luxe lighting, like this stunner of a chandelier, combines bold patterns, opulent fabrics, and eye-catching mirrored or metallic finishes. Bold furniture, like the dramatic tufted headboard and mirrored nightstands, are other signature elements of this glam style.

4. Coastal Bedrooms

If you want to create a calm and relaxing bedroom that evokes the feeling of being by the ocean, coastal design might be the perfect choice. Coastal-inspired bedrooms feature natural textures, calming colors, and nautical elements that create a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Here are some ideas to help you achieve a coastal vibe in your bedroom: 

• Choose a Soft Color Palette: Coastal bedrooms typically feature soft, soothing colors that mimic the ocean and beach. Opt for shades of blue, green, and sandy beige to create a serene and peaceful atmosphere. You can also incorporate coral or yellow to add warmth and energy to the space. 

• Add Natural Textures: To create a sense of beachy relaxation in your bedroom, add natural textures like rattan, wicker, and jute. Use these materials for your headboard, nightstands, and lighting fixtures to create a cohesive and calming look. 

• Use Nautical Elements: Coastal decor often includes nautical elements like anchors, ropes, and shells. You can incorporate these elements into your bedroom through artwork, throw pillows, and bedding. 

• Choose Light and Airy Curtains: To maximize natural light and create a breezy atmosphere, opt for light and airy curtains in your coastal-themed bedroom. Choose sheer or lightweight fabrics in colors that complement your overall color palette. 

• Add Greenery: Add some greenery like potted plants or fresh flowers to bring a sense of the outdoors into your bedroom to help create a calming and peaceful atmosphere that evokes the feeling of being by the ocean. 

A Bright & Airy Coastal Bedroom with White Wood Beams & Soft Shades of Blue & Gray
Image courtesy of Sarah Richardson Design

A coastal bedroom with a soothing color palette that creates a sense of relaxation and tranquility.  Natural textures like rattan and jute add warmth, while lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen add a crisp and clean feel to the space.

5. Cottage Country Bedroom Decorating Ideas

Cottage country bedroom ideas typically feature a cozy and inviting aesthetic. Think warm wood tones, vintage-inspired decor, and a relaxed atmosphere. To achieve this look, start with a neutral color palette of whites, creams, and soft grays.

Add natural textures like woven baskets, jute rugs, and linen bedding to create a cozy and laid-back vibe. Incorporate vintage-inspired decor like a distressed wooden headboard or antique lamps to add character and charm.

To enhance the cottage feel further, consider adding floral prints and patterns to your bedding and curtains. Finally, consider adding a cozy seating area with a plush armchair or a rocking chair to create a comfortable and inviting space to relax and unwind.

A Cozy Country Bedroom with a Large Seating Area
Image courtesy of Amber Interiors

A cozy country cottage bedroom with shiplap walls and ceiling, warm earth tones, and a gorgeous display of pillows that add texture and pattern.

6. Scandinavian Bedrooms

Scandinavian bedrooms take a minimalistic and functional approach to design. The Scandinavian style emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and natural elements, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a clean and uncluttered aesthetic.

To achieve a Scandinavian-inspired bedroom, start with a neutral color palette of whites, grays, and light blues. Use natural textures like wood, wool, and linen to add warmth and texture to the space. Keep the furniture simple and functional, with clean lines and minimal ornamentation.

Add color through artwork or textiles, and incorporate plenty of plants for a touch of nature. Lighting is also essential in Scandinavian design, so add a mix of overhead and task lighting to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Finally, decluttering and organization are critical to achieving a Scandinavian-inspired bedroom, so incorporate plenty of storage solutions to keep the space tidy and uncluttered.