Live Large in Small Spaces Elevated Bedroom Design Ideas for the Modern Urban Home

1. Colour Theme

Use neutral and light colours like white, cream, beige, and pastels. Neutral colours reflect more light, making a small room look bigger. Multiple colours make the room noisy, and hence should be avoided. Even in a monochromatic theme, one can highlight the main backdrop wall with a slightly darker shade, or can use multiple shades of the same tonality within the room to create interest. In addition, wall colour shades that match/complement the colours of the furniture and fabric placed in a bedroom can be used. A light-coloured bedsheet and a compatible rug colour can be aesthetically placed.

2. Strategic Lighting

Use multi-colour panel lights or tri-colour LEDs for flexibility in lighting as per the function and time of the day. Use the white colour light as a Task Light to increase focus and visibility. Warm white colour can be used as general lighting during the daytime or evenings, and the yellow colour soothing light as indirect lighting at night time to create a calm and relaxing environment. The lights need to be placed thoughtfully in the false ceilings, wall panelling, coves and niches or behind headboards for efficient lighting without hindrance.

3. Multipurpose Furniture

Choose multipurpose furniture for smaller spaces to maximise utility without compromising on aesthetics. A hidden table, a side table doubling up as a pouffe, or a multi-height dressing table doubling up as a laptop stand can add to utility and value.  These are ideal for modern families living in metro cities, who are space-conscious and looking for interiors that balance between style and practicality.

4. Use of vertical storage.

Aim to keep 50% of the floor free of furniture to create a sense of openness. Use of wall-mounted tables, shelves and hooks is preferable to keep the clutter off the floor. Use wall hanging decor instead of tabletop accessories to beautify your bedroom and keep it visually light. Avoid multi-level false ceilings, especially in today’s world, wherein in metros, the clear floor height keeps reducing day by day.

5. Use of Mirrors

Mirrors act as a powerful design element that reflects space and light. Strategic use of mirrors on walls and furniture can make the room appear bigger, while a mirror next to the window enhances the natural light. When incorporating mirrors, be mindful of the Vastu Shastra principles, i.e. avoid placing mirrors where they directly reflect the bed, as it is believed to disrupt rest and energy flow. A well-planned mirror layout in a compact bedroom thus elevates the aesthetic appeal and functionality.

6. Smart & Floating Furniture

A minimalist bed frame is ideal for small bedrooms due to its sleek design and low profile, which helps create a sense of openness. A frame with clean lines and a simple structure avoids cluttering the space. Wall-mounted floating beds or Murphy Beds can be used to create extra space during the daytime. The desks, shelves, or nightstands can be wall-mounted to free up carpet space. Floating desks provide extra space for chairs when not in use. Sliding door wardrobes save space used for the swing of the shutter and thus can help in better and compact planning. Such furniture offers a smart solution to maximise floor space while maintaining a clean and modern aesthetic.

7. Use Curtains Creatively

Using full-height curtains from floor to ceiling makes the ceiling look higher and the room look spacious. The monochrome combinations with textures and patterns are used for a simple, clean look, while a flowery pattern gives a cool, fresh look. A lighter colour curtain allows more light in the room, enhancing brightness and openness. The curtains are used appropriately to create a visual balance in the room.