SMALL BEDROOMS – 10 MISTAKES TO AVOID IN SMALL SPACES

10 MISTAKES TO AVOID

Alright, let’s just all acknowledge something super real here: small bedrooms are stressful.

Don’t get me wrong, cozy spaces can feel insanely homey and charming. I mean, who doesn’t love curling up in a nook that feels like a stylish little hideaway from the world?

But if you’re not careful – and I’m talking from both personal experience and a designer’s eye – you can easily turn your small bedroom into a cluttered dungeon that’s more anxiety-inducing than calming.

Seriously, if you’ve been struggling to make your teeny-tiny room look chic, functional, and bigger than it actually is, I got you. We’re going to handle this together, and by the end, you’ll feel like you have the interior design know-how of, like, a mini genius.

And I promise you, no gatekeeping.

So, here I am to talk you through the top 10 mistakes to avoid in a small bedroom.

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely love and think you’ll love too. Your support helps keep this blog running – thank you!

10 Mistakes to Avoid in a Small Bedroom

1. Overstuffing the Room with Furniture
2. Ignoring Proper Lighting
3. Not Decluttering and Organizing
4. Choosing the Wrong Color Scheme
5. Not Using Multifunctional Furniture
6. Forgetting About Vertical Space
7. Neglecting Storage Solutions
8. Not Considering Layout and Flow
9. Heavy, Dark Window Treatments
10. Forgetting to Add Personality

1. Overstuffing YOUR BEDRoom with Furniture

Look, I get it. We all have that one fantasy: a plush king-size bed with a massive headboard, flanked by two equally chunky nightstands, a giant dresser to hold that entire streetwear collection, and a statement armchair for those moments when we, like, read.

But in a small bedroom, this is basically the design equivalent of wearing four coats at once: completely overkill.

What’s the big deal? Stuffing a tiny bedroom with too much furniture feels like trying to fit a complete meal on a single slice of toast – it just doesn’t work.

Everything ends up crammed together, leaving no space to move comfortably. You’ll feel trapped, frustrated, and maybe even annoyed at your own furniture.

How to avoid it: First, measure your room. Yes, measure it. Don’t just eyeball it and hope your dream bed frame fits.

Once you have the exact dimensions, consider what you truly need.

Maybe you can survive with a smaller nightstand with built-in storage. Maybe you don’t need a dresser if your closet is super functional.

Take a minimalist approach: start with the basics – bed, nightstand, maybe one additional storage piece – and then reassess.

If the room starts to feel cramped, remove something. If you must have extra storage, look into furniture that’s multipurpose – like a bed frame with drawers.

Once you focus on proportion and need rather than sheer volume, your small bedroom will feel more like a calming oasis rather than a storage unit.

2. Ignoring Proper Lighting

Lighting is one of those things that’s weirdly easy to overlook, but it’s literally everything in a small bedroom.

The right type of lighting can totally change how your space appears, making it feel larger, more welcoming, and cozy. Ignoring lighting is like doing your makeup in total darkness and then being shocked when you look scary in the daylight.

What’s the big deal? If your small bedroom has harsh overhead lighting or, conversely, is super dim, it’s never going to look good.

Overly bright, cold lighting can make your space feel like a hospital waiting room, while insufficient lighting can make it feel like a cave. Neither vibe is particularly pleasant, right?

How to avoid it: The nuance here is layering.

You want a mix of lighting sources: overhead, task lighting (like bedside lamps), and possibly some ambient lighting (like a cute LED strip behind your headboard or a small table lamp in the corner).

You can use sheer curtains to maximize natural light during the day.

Choose warm-toned LED bulbs for your fixtures – they’re more flattering and create a cozy atmosphere.

Another tip for nightstand lighting: consider wall sconces or pendant lights that hang from the ceiling. They free up valuable nightstand space and add a stylish flair.

And, hey, if you can install a dimmer switch, do it. It’s an easy upgrade that will let you adjust the mood of your room with just a flick of your wrist.

3. Not Decluttering and Organizing

Okay, I know you’ve heard this about a trillion times, but I’m going to say it anyway: clutter kills vibes, especially in a small room.

When your room is tiny, every little thing that’s out of place gets magnified a hundred times.

A pair of socks on the floor suddenly looks like a mountain of laundry. A messy desk can make your room feel like it’s about to cave in on you.

What’s the big deal? Clutter doesn’t just look bad, it affects how you feel.

Trust me, waking up in a cluttered space will do exactly zero favors for your mood.

Also, for a small bedroom, clutter essentially shrinks the space even more.

How to avoid it: Start by purging. Yes, I’m talking Marie Kondo, The Home Edit, all of it.

Get rid of anything you don’t use, wear, or even remember you owned.

Once you’ve narrowed down your stuff, invest in smart storage solutions.

We’re talking under-bed storage bins, wall shelves that go up to the ceiling, and maybe even storage baskets that look cute on your shelves.

The nuance here is choosing storage solutions that complement your décor rather than making your room look like a storage facility.

Keep your surfaces as clear as possible. A well-organized small bedroom feels instantly bigger.

Plus, you’ll sleep better knowing you’re not living in a mini tornado of junk.

4. Choosing the Wrong Color Scheme

Color is magic. Dark, bold colors can sometimes make a small room feel even tinier, while certain color combinations can feel straight-up chaotic.

What’s the big deal? A small bedroom doesn’t have a ton of square footage, so the color scheme you choose will completely dominate the visual narrative.

Dark or overly saturated colors can close in your space visually, making it feel oppressive and cramped.

Meanwhile, too many mismatched hues can create visual clutter – just as bad as actual clutter.

How to avoid it: The nuance in color choice lies in understanding undertones and brightness.

Generally, lighter colors like whites, creams, pale grays, or soft pastels will make your small bedroom feel airy and open.

But don’t be afraid of some contrast. A well-placed accent wall in a soothing hue – maybe a dusty sage or a pale blue – can add depth and interest.

Just keep the overall palette cohesive and limit it to a few complementary colors.

If you absolutely love dark colors, try to incorporate them sparingly, maybe through textiles (like throw blankets and accent pillows) or artwork, so they don’t overpower the room.

5. Not Using Multifunctional Furniture

In a large space, you can afford to have single-function furniture. A massive bed, a huge dresser, a random bench for “aesthetics” – it’s all good because you have room to spare.

In a small bedroom, you need to think smarter, not harder. Ignoring multifunctional furniture is like choosing single-task gadgets in a tiny apartment kitchen: it’s just not practical.

What’s the big deal? Multifunctional furniture can save you tons of space and money.

Think about it: a bed with built-in storage drawers is a double win. A nightstand with shelves provides a place for your phone, your book, and maybe some decorative items without needing an extra bookshelf.

Skipping out on these genius solutions means you’re missing a huge opportunity to streamline your space.

How to avoid it: Start scouting for pieces that serve more than one purpose.

I’m talking about ottomans with hidden storage compartments, fold-down desks attached to walls, or nightstands with extra storage.

The nuance is finding pieces that still look stylish and complement your design theme.

Just because you need multifunctional furniture doesn’t mean you have to buy ugly pieces. There are so many chic, modern, and minimalist options that will blend right into your room while secretly stashing all your clutter out of sight.

6. Forgetting About Vertical Space

When you’re working with a small footprint, the floor isn’t your only resource.

You have walls, the space above doorframes, and even the ceiling (if you’re bold enough).

What’s the big deal? When you ignore vertical space, you’re not fully utilizing the room’s potential.

Shelves, hanging plants, wall-mounted lights, hooks, and even pegboards can provide storage and style without taking up precious floor space.

By building upward, you create an illusion of height, making the room feel bigger and more dynamic. It’s like adding layers to an outfit, but for your room.

How to avoid it: First, you can consider adding shelves above your bed, desk, or dresser.

You can hang your TV on the wall instead of placing it on a chunky media console.

You can use wall hooks for coats, hats, and bags. If you’re feeling fancy, maybe install a floating desk that folds up when not in use.

It’s a thin line between utilizing vertical space and making your walls look like a garage sale. Keep it functional, well-styled, and consistent with your room’s overall vibe.

7. Neglecting Storage Solutions

If you’re living in a small bedroom, storage is your best friend. Every inch counts. Ignoring storage solutions or thinking you’ll just “deal with it” later is a huge mistake.

Without proper storage, your clean and cute room will quickly devolve into a chaotic mess – and no amount of pretty throw pillows can save you.

What’s the big deal? Lack of proper storage leads to clutter (we’ve been over this), and clutter leads to stress.

Small bedrooms require you to think like a strategic genius.

How to avoid it: Embrace built-ins.

If you own your place or have the freedom to make more permanent changes, built-in closets or shelving can be a godsend.

If not, opt for freestanding wardrobes that fit snugly into awkward corners, or consider a captain’s bed with drawers underneath.

Use organizers inside your drawers and closets – separators, bins, hanging shelves.

If everything else is sleek and minimal, don’t choose bright neon plastic bins. Instead, pick rattan baskets or subtle fabric bins that blend in.

Thoughtful storage will transform your small bedroom from a clutter trap into a minimalist haven.

8. Not Considering Layout and Flow

Just because your room is small doesn’t mean you should just throw the bed against a wall and call it a day.

Layout matters. How you position your furniture affects how you move around the room, how it feels visually, and even how well you sleep (I swear, having a great layout can genuinely improve sleep quality).

What’s the big deal? A poor layout can make even a well-designed room feel cramped and uncomfortable.

If you have to crawl over your bed to reach your closet, or if your door smacks into a piece of furniture every time you enter, you’ve got a problem.

The flow of the room should be intuitive, allowing you to move around without feeling like you’re navigating an obstacle course.

How to avoid it: Start with the bed – it’s the largest piece and the room’s focal point.

Position it in a way that makes sense for how you use the space. Ideally, you want some clearance on at least one or two sides so you can easily get in and out.

Then, place other furniture to enhance the flow. A narrow dresser could go opposite the bed.

Nightstands should be scaled down to fit the room. If something feels off, try rearranging. Sometimes, a small tweak in layout can dramatically improve the feel of your bedroom.

9. Heavy, Dark Window Treatments

Windows are precious in a small room.

They’re your gateway to natural light, fresh air, and a sense of connection to the outside world. Covering them up with heavy, dark curtains is unnecessary and counterproductive.

What’s the big deal? Heavy drapes can block out natural light, making your room feel smaller and drearier.

They also add visual weight to the space. In a small room, you want to keep things light and airy, and big, chunky curtains do the exact opposite.

How to avoid it: Opt for sheer or lightweight fabrics that let sunlight filter in, or choose blinds that can be adjusted to control light levels without completely blacking out the room.

If you need more privacy, consider layered treatments – maybe a light, sheer curtain paired with a simple, light-blocking roller shade for nighttime.

The nuance here is balancing privacy with openness. You want to feel safe and cozy, but you also want to maximize light and the feeling of space.

Look for curtains or blinds in neutral, lighter tones that coordinate with your room’s color scheme and keep that airy vibe going.

10. Forgetting to Add Personality

It’s easy to get so caught up in making your small bedroom look bigger that you forget to make it feel like you.

Minimalism is great, but not to the point of stripping your space of its soul.

A bedroom is supposed to be your personal sanctuary, so if it’s void of any personality, it’s going to feel bland and lifeless.

What’s the big deal? A room without personality is just a room, not your room.

Even in a small space, you can add special touches that reflect who you are – your style, your tastes, your favorite colors, your treasured memories.

How to avoid it: Incorporate personal touches through art, photos, or even a small gallery wall if you can spare the space.

Also, you can add a pop of color in your throw pillows or a cozy, textured blanket.

Perhaps display a small collection of your favorite books on a shelf.

You don’t want to clutter the room with sentimental items, but you also don’t want it to feel sterile.

Find that sweet spot where a few well-chosen pieces add warmth and character without overwhelming the space.

Bonus Tips

We’ve gone through the top 10 mistakes to avoid, but let’s get a bit more into the nuance of designing a small bedroom that actually feels like a place you want to spend time in.

Remember, interior design is part art, part psychology, and part problem-solving. The reality is that no two small bedrooms are exactly alike, and what works in one might not translate to another.

The key is experimenting with scale, proportions, colors, textures, and storage solutions until you find the combination that just clicks.

Consider Mirrors: One classic trick I’m obligated to mention (but that’s actually effective) is using mirrors.

Mirrors reflect light and create the illusion of depth, making your small bedroom look more expansive.

You could position a large mirror across from a window to maximize natural light, or use mirrored furniture pieces, like a mirrored nightstand, to bounce light around the room.

Play with Textures: When you have a limited palette of colors, consider adding interest through texture.

A chunky knit blanket, a faux fur rug, or a linen bedspread can add layers of tactile interest. This is another subtle nuance that can elevate a small space from “meh” to “oh, wow.”

Keep It Clean: I can’t stress this enough: a clean and tidy small bedroom instantly feels bigger.

Make your bed every morning (I know, revolutionary), put away clothes, and keep surfaces clear.

A small amount of daily effort can have a massive impact on how your room looks and feels.

Be Picky with Décor: When your bedroom is small, not every cute thing you find on Etsy is going to fit.

Be selective. Choose a few meaningful, beautiful pieces rather than a bunch of random things. This will help maintain a cohesive look and prevent visual chaos.

Invest in Quality Essentials: Since you’re likely buying fewer furniture pieces, consider investing in quality staples.

A well-made bed frame, a solid mattress, and some durable, beautiful bedding can make a small room feel luxurious rather than cheap.

Plus, you want comfort, right? It’s your bedroom – where you sleep, read, daydream, and sometimes eat takeout while binging Netflix (no judgment).

Think About Your Lifestyle: Are you someone who works from bed half the time? Maybe incorporate a small, foldable desk that can pop out when neede

. Are you the type who loves reading at night? Make sure you have a good bedside lamp and maybe a shelf for your book collection.

If you’re into fashion, consider open garment racks that look stylish and double as decor.

Use a Cohesive Color Palette: When you have less space, cohesion is your secret weapon.

Keep your color palette tight and harmonious.

Maybe it’s whites and creams with touches of soft green.

Or light gray with hints of blush pink and warm wood tones.

Stick to a few core hues to avoid visual clutter. The result? A space that feels integrated, purposeful, and calming.

Don’t Fear Negative Space: Just because you have a small room doesn’t mean you need to fill every corner.

Sometimes leaving a bit of empty space can actually make the room feel larger and more peaceful.

If you have a bare wall, that might be okay. You don’t always have to cover it with shelves or art.

Reassess Frequently: Your needs might change.

Maybe you took up a new hobby and now need a spot for your guitar. Or you realized you never use that bulky dresser because you’re living in sweatpants 80% of the time.

Don’t be afraid to rearrange, declutter, or swap pieces out as your lifestyle evolves. A small bedroom can adapt with you if you let it.