How to maximize space in a small bedroom – 10 clever ploys to make the most of every inch

Maximizing space in a small bedroom is no easy feat, but it can be achieved. Though tiny bedrooms can present many interior design challenges, there are several benefits to living in such a compact manner. A well-designed bedroom can feel just as comfortable as a larger space, with all the coziness and comfort you could need. 

‘In a small bedroom it’s best for things to feel generous. This will need to be tailored to your home, but ideas include a vibrant wallpaper in a bathroom or box rooms with luxurious floor-to-ceiling curtains, or an oversized sofa in a compact living room. Do at least one thing with gusto to make the space feel less mean,' says Tom Bartlett, interior designer, Waldo Works.

With practical storage solutions, curated color choices and enviable interior design schemes, these small bedroom ideas that maximize space are bound to inspire your next tiny bedroom remodel.

How to maximize space in a small bedroom 

Key to maximizing planning an efficient layout: your small bedroom layout ideas have to be spot on to make the space as practical as possible.

Whether you're looking for small bedroom storage ideas, box rooms or the best beds for small rooms, these ways to maximize a small bedroom come with plenty of useful interior design advice so that your bedroom revamp can be as successful as possible. 

We've covered everything from color schemes to lighting and flooring – and refresh our favorites regularly, so do keep checking back for more.

1. Clear the clutter and opt for minimalism 

One sure-fire way to maximize space in a small bedroom is to have a complete clear out, but it needn't leave the space dull, as Annie Sloan, color and paint expert explains: 

'To avoid a clinical look, introduce a disrupter color on a focal piece such as a bedframe. A burst of your favorite statement shade will add personality and really pop against the clean gallery-style backdrop.'

2. Choose tall and slim over short and wide

'Arranging a small bedroom often calls for compromise, but good small bedroom storage ideas are a must,' says Jennifer Ebert, digital editor, Homes & Gardens. 'When choosing the best storage, look to key pieces of bedroom furniture that are simple, fuss-free and almost minimal in their designs.'

'Consider your furniture carefully and source narrow tall designs over wide and bulky pieces. This smart piece by Ercol will maximize space in a small bedroom perfectly, the slimline profile takes up less space yet the height makes it a great storage solution.'

3. Max out your wall space

'The joinery niche in this bedroom, within which sits a Kingcome sofa bed, maximizes the space while also providing a focal point to the room and a place to display favorite objects,' says Clara Ewart, head of design, Kitesgrove. 'While not being used as a sofa bed, this becomes a cozy library and seating corner to retreat to come evening.'

4. Employ a creative joiner for custom storage

Bespoke wardrobes are a great place to start, as they can be built to the proportions of the room, maximising vertical storage space. Due to sloping ceilings in a loft space, the bed is best placed in the middle of the room. 

'Let the bed take center stage and create a focal point with vibrant art placed above the headboard, dressing the bed with complementing prints and colors,' say Jen & Mar, co-founders of Interior Fox. 'Side tables or compact wall units make great alternatives to standard bedside tables. They’re much smaller in size, meaning you can still have a space to pop your belongings without making the area feel too cramped.'

5. Opt for a a side table with a slim profile

'Maximize bedroom storage by using clever multi-functional furniture where suitable,' says Lucy Searle, global editor in chief, Homes & Gardens. 'Forgo oversized or bulky nightstands in favor of one with slimline legs and a sleek surface,' she says. 'Choose a piece that matched your color scheme or is similar tonally – this will help to blend in rather than distract.'

6. Invest in wardrobes that reach the ceiling

'In order to maximize space in this compact bedroom, a pair of symmetrical full height wardrobes have been installed on each side of the bed providing much needed storage as well as creating a cozy niche for the headboard,' says Clara Ewart, head of design, Kitesgrove. 'The deep blue feels cozy and intimate, while the rattan detail on the wardrobe doors adds character and texture.'

7. Hide clutter in a bespoke alcove

The bedroom is a retreat and sanctuary from the world, but it’s also a deeply personal space. 'Storage is key in bedrooms so that you can maintain tidiness while still having all your necessities and creature comforts on hand,' says Natascha Dartnall, founder & director, ND Studios.

'Nightstands with drawers are a winner, especially for those of us prone to filling surfaces with clutter – what we love about this bedroom is the bespoke alcove; smart enough to be used as a display but the presence of the door is reassuring for anyone who wants discreet storage.'

8. Position the bed for maximum floor space

How you position furniture is vital when maximizing space in a small bedroom, instead of placing the bed in the middle of the room, consider popping it in the corner by a window instead, cozier for sure, and it opens up the space.

'When configuring a small bedroom, good planning will go a long way to make your room work harder for you. Choose a bed with lots of under-bed storage to keep the clutter at bay. Our Eva Bed offers ample storage when customized to include an ottoman base making it ideal for storing those items that aren’t used on a daily basis,' says Mark Tremlett, founder and director, Naturalmat.

9. Match your wallpaper to your drapes

One way to max space in a small bedroom is to trick the eye – this can be done by choosing the same wallpaper design as your drapes. 'It helps the eye to flow around the room without interruption and features 'blend' together which distracts from the size of the space,' says Melanie Griffiths, editor, Period Living.

10. Have a built-in headboard with all the trimmings

A great space-maxing option is to invest in a built-in, bespoke headboard – with or without attached bedside side tables. 'In our project JB Mews, the main bedroom was quite compact so we created a built-in headboard upholstered in a deep green velvet,' says Tom Rutt, director at TR Studio. 'Complemented by slim green marble bedside tables, the color and material combination defined the room and provided a statement and stylish feature without overwhelming the small space.'