Whether you're a bonafide homebody or just like to unwind in your humble abode at the end of the day, your bedroom should be peaceful, personal and aesthetically pleasing.
There's no right or wrong way to design your sleeping quarters, but a little inspiration never hurts. Read on for thoughtful ideas and tasteful tips on how to decorate a bedroom.
How to Decorate a Bedroom: 37 Ways
If you love pared-down yet sharp interior design as much as the housewares enthusiasts at Parachute, you'll appreciate these simple bedroom design tips. Lean into the ideas that speak to you and forget those that don't. Let's get started.
1. Embrace Minimalism
If you're drawn to simple bedroom designs and cringe at the sight of clutter, a minimalist design scheme might be right up your alley. Think clean lines, toned-down hues, less-is-more furnishings and unadorned accents. This doesn't mean your room will be devoid of personality, only that it'll feature fewer pieces and colors for a more curated, calming look.
For additional insight into creating a straightforward, serene space, see our guide on How to Design a Minimalist Bedroom.
2. Go Neutral
Neutral bedrooms often overlap with minimalist themes, but they're not necessarily the same thing. For this idea, you'll want to opt for simple colors, such as white, ivory, brown, grey or black. Earth tones can work in some cases too, like sand, sage or clay.
3. Monochrome Color Palette
Of all the trending bedroom color schemes, monochrome colors are certainly among the most popular. Whether you go with navy, black, rust or olive, the result will be undeniably chic. Want to add a bit of dimension? Use different shades of the same color, like dove grey and charcoal or white and off-white.
Learn more about decorating a dark bedroom in Parachute’s Monochrome Bedroom Decor guide.
4. Classic Black and White
Another excellent idea on how to decorate a bedroom is a classic black-and-white theme. It's safe to say these polarized hues will never go out of style. And when paired together, they offer an elegant, upscale vibe.
5. Moody Hues
To achieve a moody yet sophisticated cocoon-like atmosphere, decorate your bedroom with deep hues. We're talking black, charcoal, navy and burgundy.
6. White and Wood
White and wood complement each other effortlessly. To create a refreshingly peaceful haven, start with light or medium wood furniture with a natural finish. Then finish off your bedroom with white bed linens, curtains and decorative accents.
For a deeper dive into this design idea, check out our blog How to Design and Style a White Bedroom.
7. Add Color with Plants
Lots of folks worry that a neutral, white or monochrome bedroom will be too plain. While this is a common misconception, you can always add color with plants. Whether it's an oversized shrub, an indoor-friendly tree or a few small succulents placed throughout your space, a pop of green will go a long way in a modern bedroom.
For plant decor inspiration, learn more in the Indoor Plants for Clean Air guide.
8. Industrial Touches
Industrial-inspired home decor is in right now. Want to embrace this style without going over the top or having to redo your bedroom when the trend fades? Opt for eye catching small touches, like installing weathered metal sconces or switching out your existing dresser drawer pulls for bronze knobs.
For more tips on how to decorate a bedroom with industrial accents, see our blog How to Modern Industrial Style Look for Your Home.
9. Repurposed Accents
If you like farmhouse-chic interior design but don't want your space to look too kitschy, consider adding just a few repurposed accents (or at least accents that appear to be repurposed). This could be a sliding barn-style door, a distressed wood wall, an antique rocking chair or a reclaimed wood headboard.
10. Pared-Down Furniture
When figuring out how to decorate a bedroom, the key to achieving an air of tranquility is to furnish with only the necessities. Aside from a bed, this may include a dresser and nightstands, and depending on how much space you have, potentially a chest, side table, ottoman or vanity.
11. Canopy Bed
Speaking of tranquility, one way to make your sleeping chamber as peaceful as possible is with a canopy bed. Start with a simple four-poster and adorn it with gauzy fabrics you can easily open, close and adjust depending on your mood.
12. Headboard Centerpiece
Your bed is essentially the centerpiece of your room. It's the first thing people will see when they walk in, anchoring the space and setting the tone for the rest of your furnishings. With that said, installing a headboard is an excellent way to make the most of this focal point.
13. Frame the Bed With Framed Art
If you want to forgo the headboard, another bed decoration idea is to hang framed art instead. Make sure you get something to scale — it doesn't have to be as wide as your bed, but it should be close.
14. Dresser Nightstands
Nightstands and dressers are must-haves in most bedrooms. If you're short on storage space, why not kill two birds with one stone and use short dressers as bedside tables?
15. Nightstand Shelving Units
Another idea is to use narrow shelving units as nightstands. Not only will you have space for decorative accents and bedside essentials, but you'll also create a tasteful framed-in effect for your bed. Shorter stacks of shelves work great, though you might be surprised how chic taller units can look.
16. Bedside Sconces
Bedside lighting is essentially non-negotiable, though traditional table lamps aren't your only option. Sconces can offer a refined appearance while minimizing visible power cords and saving valuable space on your nightstand.
17. Storage Bench
Lidded benches make great end caps to beds while providing much-needed storage space and additional seating. You can stash extra bedding, decorative pillows & throws, seasonal outerwear, and anything else you'd like to keep out of the way.
18. Breathable Bedding
Bedding is a critical factor in how to decorate a bedroom. Linen tends to be the most breathable fabric, but it doesn't just feel good against your skin. The natural flax-sourced textile is laid-back yet luxe, lending to an easy-breezy, endlessly relaxing ambiance.
Learn more about breathable bedding materials in these Parachute bedding fabric guides:
Linen: Know Your Bedding Like a Designer
Sateen: Know Your Bedding Like a Designer
19. Upscale Hotel-Inspired Bedding
If you prefer more of an upscale look, percale has your name on it. Woven from long-staple Egyptian cotton and reminiscent of five-star hotel bedding, the high-end fabric is cool, crisp and ultra-smooth.
Not sure which material is best for you? Read our Fabric and Bedding Materials Guide for more details about each textile.
20. Simple Shams
Traditional shams feature fabric trim around the border (also known as a flange edge), while others have cording embellishments on all sides. Those who like minimalist home design should consider shams with knife edges, meaning they don't have the cloth border.
For more insight into this topic, see our Pillowcase and Sham Guide.
21. Texturize With Throws
Want to add texture to your made bed? Throw blankets are an easy solution. Whether you're partial to cloud cotton, matelasse, linen, linea or cashmere, you can't go wrong when layering bedding.
For more tips and guidance on decorating with throws, learn more in these resourceful guides:
22. Decorative Pillows Add Dimension
Sure, you might take them off before crawling into bed every night, but a few decorative pillows are key to adding dimension and fullness to your bed. Consider two square Euro shams or potentially one longer lumbar pillow.
23. Natural-Woven Rug
Wondering how to decorate a bedroom with hard floors? A natural rug woven from jute or sisal can soften the space, create a texturized, organic feel, and add insulation and warmth.
Learn more in the Rug Styling guide.
24. Soft and Cozy Rug
Whether you have hardwoods or carpet in your bedroom, you should definitely consider adding an area rug. Soft designs like braided wool or modern shag can make a space feel more inviting and cozy.
25. Soft Curtains
Window coverings are a must in bedrooms. Not only do they provide privacy and light filtration, but they can also enhance the overall aesthetic. Your best bet is to hang washed linen or sheer gauzy curtains over opaque blinds. That way, you'll have privacy and darkness when you need it without sacrificing softness.
26. Accent Chair
One of the best ways to decorate your room is with an accent chair. This could be a rocking chair, an armless slipper, a bergère, a chesterfield chair or even a chaise lounge.
27. Open Spaces
If you're working with ample square footage, it can be tempting to fit in as many pieces as possible. However, a bedroom setup with open spaces can be chic and luxurious. Think wide walkways and entire walls devoid of furniture.
28. To-Scale Furnishings
One thing all nice bedrooms have in common? To-scale furnishings. This means each piece is the proper size to fit the room, including the ceiling height, any open wall space and the overall square footage. For instance, if you have notably high ceilings, you might want to get a tall or otherwise oversized headboard to bring the room down to size. On the other hand, if you’re decorating a small guest bedroom, keep that in mind as you’re ordering and arranging bedroom furniture.
29. Don't Skimp on Storage
It can be tough to figure out how to decorate a bedroom that lacks storage space. But to make your space more functional and avoid a cluttered look, you'll want to prioritize pieces that double as storage. This could be an under-the-bed rolling compartment, a storage ottoman or baskets throughout the room.
For more storage tips, read on in the Linen Closet Organization and Bedroom Organization guides.
30. Curated Bookshelf
A bookshelf offers both decoration and functionality in a bedroom. Instead of filling each shelf with every book you own, create a curated look by selecting a few monochrome book spines and then accenting with tchotchkes in complementing colors.
31. Floating Shelves
Looking for things to decorate your room with? Don't overlook floating shelves. You can adorn them with books, candles, small plants, framed art, you name it. Best of all, they don't take up any floor space.
32. Gallery Wall
Consider creating a gallery wall in your bedroom. Whether you use matching frames, select only black-and-white photos or opt for natural wood frames of varying sizes, be sure all the pieces have at least one thing in common.
33. Mirrors Over Framed Art
Framed art can tie together a bedroom, but before you hammer in the nail, you might opt for a mirror instead. Aside from being useful when getting dressed in the morning, mirrors can make your space look bigger and brighter, especially when placed across from a window.
34. Free-Standing Mirror
If you have the available space, a free-standing mirror can look really elegant in a bedroom while lending to a lighter, brighter atmosphere.
Learn more in our Mirror Decor Ideas & Inspiration guide.
35. Mood Lighting
When figuring out how to decorate a bedroom, don't forget to add mood lighting. Aside from bedside lamps, this could be a classy set of string lights, a strip light that glows behind your headboard or a statement floor lamp with a dimmer.
36. Upgraded Overhead Fixture
Looking for cute ways to decorate your room? Upgrading your overhead lighting fixture can go a long way. Depending on your bedroom theme and personal style, this could be a pendant light, a chandelier, track lights or even a lighted fan.
37. Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper
Those in the market for pretty bedroom ideas should think about hanging peel-and-stick wallpaper. Unlike the permanent, pasted-on options from decades past, temporary wallpaper is easy to use and doesn't ruin the paint underneath.
Learn How to Decorate a Bedroom Like a Stylist
Feeling overwhelmed with choices or want personalized advice on how to decorate your room? The experienced stylists at Parachute are ready to assist. Schedule your free phone or video consultation to get started.
For more interior design tips across your house, explore the other Parachute Home interior design guides:
What is Feng Shui in Interior Design? Feng Shui Tips You’ll Love
25 Tips to Upgrade Your Apartment
New Home Checklist: Decor Tips and Home Essentials