Small Apartment Bedroom Ideas: 7 Tips for Your Dream Space

Ever felt like your small apartment bedroom was more of a cramped closet than a cozy retreat? Yeah… I’ve been there too.

Most people are super excited to move into their own place… until they see the bedroom. Apartment bedrooms tend to be so tiny, you can barely fit a bed and a dresser. You might be thinking “Where am I going to put all my stuff?” and feeling pretty intimidated by the idea of decorating your apartment bedroom.

But here’s the good news: transforming that small space into your own little haven isn’t as tough as it seems. Over time, I’ve picked up on lots of little tricks that have turned my bedroom into my favorite part of my apartment. And I’m so excited to share these hacks with you!

In this post, you’re going to learn seven simple, yet game-changing tips that will help you maximize your small space (without breaking the bank).

From clever storage solutions to little decor tweaks that make a big difference, I’ve got you covered here. Whether you’re struggling to find a spot for all your clothes or your room just feels a bit blah, these ideas are all about making the most of what you’ve got.

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small apartment bedroom

Best Small Apartment Bedroom Ideas

Tip #1: Choose Light and Reflective Colors

A can of paint and the right color palette can seriously open things up and take your bedroom from cramped to cozy, fast.

Light and reflective colors are your best friends in a small space. Think whites, creams, light grays, soft pastels — these shades will brighten up the room and make it feel bigger by bouncing light around.

If you’re worried about it feeling too plain, you can add pops of color with throw pillows, artwork, or a colorful rug to keep things interesting without overwhelming the space.

And here’s a pro tip: try glossy or semi-gloss paint. It reflects light better than matte finishes, adding to that open, airy feel even more.

Tip #2: Look for Multi-Functional Furniture

In a small bedroom, every inch counts, so choosing furniture that can serve more than one purpose is a game-changer!

For example, instead of needing a separate dresser, you could choose a bed with built-in drawers and store your clothes right under where you sleep.

Don’t forget about vertical space, too. A tall, narrow dresser or bookshelf can hold a lot without taking up much floor area.

It’s all about being smart with what you choose — think ‘up’ instead of ‘out’ and watch your free space multiply!

Tip #3: Don’t Neglect the Lighting

Good lighting can completely transform a small bedroom from a dark box to a bright and airy space. Also, it’s not just about adding more lamps (although that helps) but also about where you place them and the kind of bulbs you use.

When we first moved into our new apartment, the only source of light was a bright, overhead bulb which I hated using. I added a couple of strategically placed table and floor lamps and the difference was night and day! The ambient lighting made the room feel more welcoming right away.

Here’s what you can do:
  • Layer your lighting: What I mean by this is use more than one type of lighting. Combine overhead lights with task lighting (like a bedside lamp or a desk lamp) and accent lighting (like string lights or LED strips). This creates depth and warmth, making the space feel larger.
  • Choose the right bulbs: Go for LED bulbs that emit a warmer white light. They’ll make your room feel cozy without the harshness of cooler tones.
  • Utilize natural light: During the day, make the most of natural light. Keep window areas clear of heavy furniture and opt for sheer curtains that allow light to pass through while offering privacy.

Tip #4: Use Mirrors to Expand Your Space

One of my favorite tips, because it’s so easy! Nothing tricks the eye like a well-placed mirror. Adding mirrors to your small bedroom can create the illusion of more space by reflecting light around the room. It’s really magic for cramped spaces!

How to use mirrors effectively:
  • What Size to Get: Choose a large mirror to hang on the wall or even lean against a wall for a modern look. Go big! The bigger the mirror, the more spacious your bedroom will seem.
  • Where to Place It: Position mirrors to maximize the reflection of light and outdoor views. Placing a mirror across from a window is a classic trick that always works.
  • How Many: Instead of one large mirror, you could hang a series of smaller mirrors. This not only spreads light throughout the room but also adds a decorative element.

Tip #5: Think Vertical

When you don’t have very much floor space to work with, think vertical! You’ll be amazed at how much you can fit into your room without it feeling crowded. It’s all about making your space work smarter, not harder.

Here are a few ideas:

  • Floating shelves above your desk, bed, or an unused corner
  • A tall, skinny bookshelf or dresser
  • Use the back of your door for extra storage

Tip #6: Choosing the Right Textiles

In a small space, choosing the right bedding, curtains, and rugs can make a bigger difference in your room feeling larger, brighter, and more inviting.

I remember the turning point for my tiny bedroom was when I swapped out my dark, heavy comforter for a light, breathable one in a soft, neutral color. It instantly made the room feel more spacious and less cluttered. Then layering a couple of light throws and some textured pillows added some depth without overwhelming the space.

How to pick the right textiles for your small bedroom:
  • Opt for light fabrics: Sheer or lightweight curtains allow more natural light to flow in, brightening up the space. For bedding, choose light colors and breathable materials like cotton or linen.
  • Keep patterns simple: Large, bold patterns can overwhelm a small room. If you love patterns, go for smaller prints or use them as accents rather than the main theme.
  • Use rugs wisely: A well-placed rug can define areas in your room and make it feel cozier. Choose one that fits well within the confines of your space—something too big can make the room feel cramped, while a small rug can add just the right touch of warmth and texture.

Tip #7: Declutter and Organize

Let’s be honest. Clutter is the enemy of small spaces. It makes a tiny room feel even… well, tinier. If you’re like me and you tend to accumulate stuff, learning to declutter and organize is crucial for keeping your small bedroom feeling open.

Start by going through your things and getting rid of anything you don’t use or need. I used to have a pile of ‘just in case’ items that took up valuable space. Once I cleared those out, not only did my room look bigger, but it also felt so much more calm and peaceful.

Here are a few organization tips that worked wonders for me:
  • Use under-bed storage: This is a great place to store out-of-season clothing or extra bedding. Opt for storage containers that are flat and easy to access.
  • Keep surfaces clear: Try to keep your dresser and nightstand tops clear of unnecessary items. A tidy surface makes the space feel less crowded.
  • Regular mini-declutter sessions: Once a month, take a few minutes to go through your room and clear out anything that’s accumulated. Keeping on top of clutter can prevent things from getting overwhelming.

An organized room not only looks better but also feels more relaxing. It’s definitely worth it to take the time to declutter regularly!

FAQ: Are there any specific decorating styles that work best in a small bedroom?

Yes! While personal taste should play a big role in how you decorate, some styles just naturally lend themselves to making small spaces feel bigger. Here are a few styles that work especially well:

  1. Minimalist: This style is all about keeping things simple and functional. Minimalist decor often has clean lines and a monochromatic color palette, which can help make your bedroom feel more organized and less cluttered.
  2. Scandinavian: This style is known for its simplicity, functionality, and use of light colors – perfect for small bedrooms!
  3. Modern: This style place an emphasis on sleek lines and a clutter-free environment, which is exactly what you want in a small space.

Try searching these styles on Pinterest for inspiration! The key is to adapt whatever style you choose to suit your own space and focus on keeping the room airy, light, and clutter-free.

If you’re looking for more minimalist small apartment ideas, follow along on social media! I share apartment decor and modern apartment design ideas on my TikTok and Instagram daily.

Happy decorating!

This post was all about small apartment bedroom decor ideas.

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