How to Decorate a Small Bedroom on a Budget

(Last Updated On: May 9, 2023)

Have you ever found yourself wishing for a larger bedroom? You’re not alone! Many of us struggle with decorating a small bedroom. It can be especially difficult when you’re working with a tight budget. Well, worry no more! I have good news for you.

You don’t need to spend a fortune to make a big impact. In fact, with just a few smart tips and a little bit of creativity, you can turn your small room into a cozy and stylish sanctuary. In this blog post, I’m excited to share with you 10 practical and budget-friendly ways to decorate your small bedroom that are sure to inspire you.

how to decorate a small bedroom on a budget

These small bedroom decorating ideas will help you create a personalized and comfortable environment that reflects your unique style. So, if you’re wondering exactly how to decorate a small bedroom on a budget, keep reading, my friend.

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Small Bedroom Decorating Challenges

Small bedrooms can be a decorating challenge, but with the right mindset and design approach, you can transform a cramped space into a cozy and charming haven.

The size of the room is the biggest obstacle, of course, but it’s not the only one. The shape of the bedroom can also make it tricky to arrange furniture and decor in a way that looks appealing. Lack of natural light is another issue that must be addressed when designing a small bedroom.

However, there are plenty of creative ways to maximize space, deal with these challenges and turn your bedroom into a stylish and comfortable retreat.

With a little creativity and some smart design choices, small bedrooms can become the most cherished spaces in your home.

Keep the Function Simple

Let’s agree on this point as well, because it’s important. We’re going to discuss tips and tricks for utilizing the space in your small bedroom to its fullest potential — as a bedroom. We won’t be talking about creating a multi-functional space; that’s a discussion for another time.

Instead, we’ll focus on how to make the most of every nook and cranny, from choosing the right furniture and bedroom décor to maximizing your storage options. By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to transform your small bedroom into a haven of relaxation and serenity. So, get ready to roll up your sleeves and get creative, because it’s time to make the most of your space!

By the way, note that most of the images that follow are my own, either from my home (the one directly below) or from home staging projects. They were perfect for this topic, as we keep things very simple with home staging. And, we re-used items in different ways from project to project, a real money-saver. You can do the same by rotating your accessories periodically.

How to Decorate a Small Bedroom on a Budget

how to decorate a small bedroom on a budget

1 | keep it light

Decorating a small bedroom on a budget can be a challenge, but with the right tips and tricks it can also be a lot of fun. And the first tip is to keep the walls a light color. This simple step can make a big difference in creating a bright and airy feel to your small space.

When choosing the perfect paint color, don’t limit yourself to just white. Light colored paint such as soft shades of pastels and neutrals, such as pale blue, light gray, or even a blush pink, can work just as well.

Not only will light colors make your small bedroom look bigger, but they will also reflect light and create a cozy sanctuary that you’ll love stepping into.

So before you start splashing bold colors on your walls, take a moment to consider the power of a light, subtle hue. Your small bedroom will thank you.

2 | use color on the small accents

Choosing one or two accent colors and using them strategically in a small bedroom can be a game-changer when it comes to creating a larger feel in your space. The right accents can draw the eye in and create an illusion of spaciousness, while too many colors can make the room feel cluttered and cramped.

When selecting your accent colors, choose hues that complement each other and the room’s primary color. Using these accent colors sparingly in areas like throw pillows, artwork, or small decor pieces can create pops of interest throughout the room without overwhelming the eye. 

3 | area rug under the bed

If you’re dealing with a small bedroom, it can be challenging to create a spacious and comfortable feel. One easy and effective way to make your space seem larger is by placing an area rug under your bed. By doing so, you are creating a visual anchor that provides balance and definition to the room.

It also gives the illusion of a bigger space by drawing attention away from the limited floor area and towards the vertical space above it. With the right rug, you can create a cohesive and airy feel that adds warmth and personality to your small bedroom.

Think texture and pattern instead of bold colors. That will keep the eye flowing and not create the illusion of a big dark blob on the floor.

I’ve curated some suggestions to get your creative juices flowing:

4 | furniture with storage

When you opt for pieces that do double-duty, like a bed with built-in drawers or a nightstand with hidden shelves, you’re instantly adding functionality to your room. Plus, you can eliminate the need for extra pieces of furniture, which can be a huge space-saver in a tight area.

Choosing furniture with storage capabilities might also inspire you to get creative with your decor. After all, when you don’t have to worry about clutter, you can focus more on adding personality to your space. 

5 | mix and match

mix and match furnishings in a small bedroom

Creating a cozy and inviting bedroom doesn’t always require matching sets of furniture. When it comes to bedside tables and lamps, it’s more important to focus on functionality rather than conformity.

Especially in a small bedroom, don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles and sizes to fit your needs and make the most of your space. Perhaps one bedside table is enough, and a wall sconce or pendant light can take the place of a lamp.

Always remember, your bedroom should reflect your personal style and be a space where you feel comfortable and relaxed. So, instead of feeling limited by tradition, why not dare to be a little unconventional and explore your options when it comes to choosing furniture for your bedroom.

6 | simple bedding

simple patterns on bedding can help make a small bedroom look more spacious

When it comes to a small bedroom, every inch counts. That’s why choosing the right bedding is crucial to creating a visually spacious environment.

Keeping the bedding simple and understated allows the eyes to rest and not be overwhelmed by prints or patterns that can make the room feel cramped. By selecting a neutral color palette, you can add a sense of calmness and serenity to your cozy abode.

Plus, if you limit the number of throw pillows on the bed, you can free up more space to promote a sense of openness. By keeping your bedding simple and streamlined, you’ll create a more relaxing environment that encourages restful sleep and overall tranquility.

Here are some suggestions I curated for you:

7 | function on the walls

By placing your bedside lamps on the walls, you can free up valuable real estate on your nightstands. This not only allows you to use that space for other items, but it also helps to create a sense of openness and flow.

Additionally, using floating shelves instead of traditional bookcases or dressers can make a big impact. Without taking up floor space, you can store books, decor, and other essentials on these shelves while creating more visual space in the room.

By incorporating these small changes, you’ll be amazed at how much bigger and more inviting your small bedroom can feel.

8 | small patterns

When decorating a small bedroom, choosing the right patterns is crucial. Using small repetitive patterns instead of large prints can make a huge difference in making your bedroom look more spacious.

Why? Large prints tend to dominate the entire space, making it feel cluttered and cramped. On the other hand, small repetitive patterns create a sense of continuity, giving the eye a smooth flow throughout the room. The trick is to choose patterns that are subtle yet impactful.

This could mean opting for a solid color palette, stripes, or small-scale prints. By keeping your patterns minimal and cohesive, you will achieve a more open and airy feel within your small bedroom.

9 | focal point

One easy solution to make the space appear larger is by creating a focal point. When you focus attention on one area, it tricks the eye into thinking the room is larger than it really is.

So, what could be a good focal point for your small bedroom? Try a statement headboard with an eye-catching pattern or a unique light fixture. Hang a large piece of wall art above your bed to draw attention upwards. Or, create a mini gallery wall with a few small pieces of art clustered together.

Whatever you choose, make sure it’s visually appealing and draws the eye in. With a little bit of creativity and focus, your small bedroom will feel like a spacious oasis in no time!

10 | hang the curtains high

make a small bedroom look larger by hanging the curtains close to the ceiling

When it comes to decorating a small bedroom, every decision counts. Hanging curtains almost to the ceiling may seem like a small detail, but it can make a huge difference in maximizing space.

By extending curtains to the ceiling, you create an illusion of height, making the room seem taller and more spacious. This is because it draws the eye upwards, away from the furniture and other elements that can clutter the room.

Additionally, floor-length curtains elongate the walls, which also creates a sense of depth. So, if you’re looking for a simple way to visually expand your small bedroom, consider adding curtains that go all the way up. It’s an easy trick that can transform a cramped space into a cozy, inviting retreat.

The Philosophy of “Less is More”

utilize the 'less is more' philosophy in a small bedroom

When it comes to small bedroom decorating ideas, less truly is more. The philosophy of incorporating the “less is more” mindset can work wonders in making a compact space look and feel more spacious.

Instead of trying to fill every last inch of your room, choose a few key statement pieces that will draw attention and create a focal point. You want to avoid cluttering your space with too many knick-knacks or unnecessary items that will only serve to make your room feel even more cramped.

By taking a minimalist approach to your décor, you’ll allow your small bedroom to breathe and create a feeling of openness that will make the space appear much larger than it actually is.

Give it a try and you’ll be amazed at just how much a few simple tweaks can transform your cozy little bedroom into an airy and inviting sanctuary.

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Conclusion: Small Bedroom Decorating Ideas on a Budget

It doesn’t have to cost a fortune to make a small bedroom feel larger. The decorating ideas outlined above can help the whole room feel larger as well as cozy and cohesive.

Whether it’s a master bedroom, a small single bedroom, a guest room, or other space in your home, making a small room feel bigger is a challenge but it’s definitely achievable.

From choosing paint colors to wall decor, bed linens, to furniture pieces, these decorating ideas will help you feel like an expert, my friend.

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budget friendly small bedroom decorating ideas

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