Recent statistics highlight a growing trend: more people are living in flats, maisonettes, or apartments, according to the latest ONS report1.
With limited space increasingly common, there’s a rising interest in designing the perfect small bedroom. Searches for “small bedroom design” have surged by 21% in the past year, averaging 3,600 searches a month and peaking every January2.
If you’re working with a compact bedroom, Joanne Dodsworth, Head of Bedrooms at Wren, shares some expert tips to help you transform it into a functional, stylish, and spacious room.
1. Optimize Lighting
Free up precious surface space by fixing lighting on walls or ceilings. “Small, understated fixtures can create a cozy ambiance while ensuring your bedside tables are reserved for essentials like books, coasters, or alarm clocks.”, says Joanne.
Joanne suggests integrated lighting, explaining,“Incorporate lighting into storage areas, wardrobes, or even under bedframes for soft, space-efficient illumination. Strip lighting or spotlights are ideal for discreet, integrated lighting solutions.
Steer clear of full-length floor lamps that dominate small rooms. Instead, opt for adjustable feature lights that offer targeted illumination for reading or hobbies, minimizing the need for multiple fixtures.”, she adds.
2. Conceal Your Storage
Integrated storage is a game-changer for small, awkwardly shaped rooms. Bespoke designs maximise space and maintain a clean, organized look”, says Joanne.
“Customisable floor to ceiling sliding door wardrobes maximise available space while keeping items organised and concealed.”
She also advises to think creatively about your storage. “For example, incorporate shoe storage racks within your wardrobes to make footwear easily accessible, organised and to free up space in your small bedroom or hallway. A pull-out trouser rack is also a clever storage hack for small spaces, maximising the vertical space within your wardrobe. This also allows you to neatly store clothes on top of each other, rather than cramming all clothes on one horizontal rail.”, says Joanne.
3. Choose Multi-Purpose Furniture
Furniture that serves dual purposes is essential in small bedrooms. Joanne says this can be found within seating, bed frames, over bed storage cabinets and dressing tables.
“Overbed storage is a great multifunctional space saving design choice for small bedrooms, as it maximises unused space. Choose open shelving to make it multi-purpose, so you can neatly store items, whilst simultaneously creating visual interest through a feature wall, incorporating books, plants, lights, or artwork.”
4. Think Vertically
When floor space is limited, vertical solutions can unlock untapped potential.
“Floating shelves orwall-mounted shelves and cabinets keep your floors clear while providing storage for books, decorative items, or framed photos. Make these shelves floor to ceiling to maximise all vertical space and create visual interest.”, shares Joanne.
Vertical storage can also be utilised within wardrobes, using tiered racks and shelving for clothing and footwear. This is a perfect storage solution for busy people who require their clothes to be organised and easily accessible.”, adds Joanne.
For more inspiration and design ideas, visit Wren’s website: https://www.wrenkitchens.com/bedrooms.
