The Complete Guide To Decorating A Small Bedroom on a Budget

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“Redecorating a small bedroom” is one of the most searched phrases in the interior design space. 

We all often have that one room inside our homes that is slightly smaller than the other bedrooms and knowing how to decorate it can feel almost…overwhelming. 

So many furniture companies create pieces that are large and overbearing. Making it tricky to navigate how to design a small bedroom. 

That is why I have created this insider guide on how to decorate a small bedroom on a budget. I have also included some of my best interior design tips for small bedrooms!

Regardless of your interior design knowledge or decorating ability, these simple steps can help to open up the room, create a functional space and make you actually want to spend time in the small bedroom in your home.

Keep reading to find out how to decorate a small bedroom.

1. Declutter The Space

When redecorating a small bedroom, the first step should always be to declutter. 

When you have less clutter in your room it automatically makes the room feel far more spacious and creates a much more peaceful atmosphere. 

If you’re wondering how to declutter your room? You mostly just need to take a look at all of your items within the room and decide which of your items serve a purpose in your life and which items you can let go of. 

You can donate certain items to charity stores and sell your clothes that you no longer need or want online.

 

Photos: The Brain & The Brawn

2. Opt for Light Colours

Light colours and tones such as whites, creams and pastels are going to be your best option for creating a wider space.

You can select lighter colours for anything from the colour of the walls, furniture and bedding. 

When you choose lighter colours, the light reflects off of these surfaces which creates an illusion of a more open room.

If light colours are not your favourite and you prefer a ‘moodier’ feel, consider having a dark accent wall or choosing darker pictures to place on the walls.

 

Photos: Homes & Gardens | Farrow & Ball

3. Choose Multi-Functional Furniture

When working with a small space you need to be able to maximise the space that you have.

There are many ways that you can do that. For example, purchasing a fold-out desk that can also work as a vanity is a great option. As well as finding a wardrobe that also features a set of drawers. 

You can also find seating and beds that have storage underneath which is perfect for storing clothing.

4. Put up Shelves

Shelves are my go-to when decorating a small bedroom. 

Shelves are not only a great way to store books but they provide the opportunity to add a hint of your personality to the room.

The shelves can feature plants, unique ornaments, or sentimental gifts.

Shelves are also one of the best ways to make the walls in your home look far more interesting!

 

Photos: DIY Bunker and Room For Tuesday

5. Use Vertical Storage Solutions

Finding furniture to fit in a small room is always a huge challenge.

A lot of furniture is designed to be long or wide to fill a room. Even just fitting one or two pieces of furniture into a small bedroom can make the space feel chaotic.

To overcome this, try to keep your eye out for vertical storage solutions. Floor to ceiling, bookshelves, ladders or cabinets, make the room feel much more spacious and won’t take up too much of the room's interior. 

These can be situated in the corners of the room, creating enough space for a larger bed.

 

Photos: Dwell & Morning Chores

6. Use Mirrors 

Mirrors are one of my favourite ways to really open up space and are one of my best interior design hacks that will help to make a room feel far more open. 

A couple of strategically placed mirrors in a room can create an illusion of more depth. They also help to make your home feel far more expensive.

Whether you opt for a large statement mirror or multiple smaller mirrors, this should be the hack you prioritise!

7. Avoid Too Many Ornaments

Just as clutter can take up too much of the space, too many ornaments can overpower the room making the room feel chaotic and busy. 

If you are somebody who loves to decorate with ornaments and knick-knacks, then I would suggest sticking to just one or two statement pieces. 

Having too many ornaments can actually make you avoid the room and you (or your guests) may even struggle to sleep in there.

  

Photos: Uncommon & Chris Loves Julia

8. Take Advantage of Natural Lighting

Taking advantage of the natural light in the room is going to help you feel like the room is far more spacious than it is.

Try to avoid dark curtains and opt for blinds or lighter coloured curtains instead. 

You will also want to avoid putting furniture in front of these windows and instead have low-level furniture to make sure the natural light pours into the room.

 

Photos: Behance & Zara Home

9. Keep it Simple

When selecting curtains, bedding and furniture, keep it simple. 

Try not to look for elaborate designs that overpower the space and instead find furniture that feels light and airy. 

For example, instead of purchasing grand curtains, go for simplicity instead. Also, avoid statement rugs and try to keep the floor as clear as possible. 

  

Photos: Maison Blonde | By Design & Viz

 

Key Takeaways

Decorating a small bedroom on a budget can seem overwhelming at first, however, when you know how to do so, you can create a cosy, calming room without breaking the bank.

From optimising the space with vertical storage solutions, avoiding too many ornaments and creating an open space with mirrors, there are many interior design tips and tricks that you can use to create a space that you love.

Lighter colours and multifunctional storage will help to create an aesthetically pleasing room that is also functional. And shelves will also create space to add a little bit of your own personal flair to the room and create the bedroom of your dreams.