How to make a small bedroom cozy — designers reveal their non-negotiable rules

Figuring out how to make a small bedroom cozy? Believe it or not, "small" and "cozy" are not interchangeable, and there are a few extra steps designers want you to take to ensure the hygge factor feels right. 

Even if you're not working with much space, you can still achieve the style of your dreams and feel well-rested in your sleep sanctuary. It might take some layering and relocating, but we know you'll be able to reach the ultimate cushy feel in no time. 

Without further ado, these small bedroom ideas will help you achieve all the warm and fuzzies.

How to make a small bedroom cozy, according to pros

It's not just about decor — creating a cozy environment requires a few steps, so let's get started. Anyone else have a hankering for a warm cup of tea and a good book?

1. Layer properly

First and foremost, the key to styling a small bedroom to peak coziness is all about layering with different yet complementary textures. 

"Start by adding a plush rug under or in front of your bed so you have something soft to step on when you first wake up," says Nicole Cullum, interior designer and founder of Color Caravan. "Next is to layer your bedding for a full, cozy feel. Fold a quilt or blanket across the end of your bed over your coverlet. Finish the look with a throw blanket draped on the corner of the bed."

Although the bed is likely the focal point of the space, and understandably so, that doesn't mean that smaller accents should be ignored. Figure out how to style a small bedroom nightstand so that it's functional and blends in with the rest of your aesthetic. Pro tip: styling in threes is most pleasing to the eye.

Nicole Cullum

Nicole Cullum is an interior designer, color expert, and professional organizer in Taos, New Mexico. She is the creative founder of Color Caravan, a charming hand-painted line of wallpaper, textiles, and home decor.

2. Consider textures

When layering your bed with cozy accents, it's also important to consider the texture of your pieces — velvets and cotton, wools and flannel, whatever makes you feel like you're floating on a cloud. If you ask Beth Diana Smith, HomeGoods style expert, this is where you should be the pickiest.

"Bedrooms are for rest and relaxation so it's important to consider the fabric of your bedding. I find that it’s important to be hands on here and see what feels coziest for your space," she says. "Personally, I always gravitate toward soft materials like cotton, knubby wools, and faux furs."

Beth Diana Smith

Beth Diana Smith is an interior designer, HomeGoods style expert, and maximalist who loves curating artful interiors infused with pattern and color.

3. Play with lighting

Of course, you want to figure out how to brighten a small bedroom, but that doesn't mean going overboard. Remember, there's no need for a harsh spotlight — this is not the theater. If you can work with customizable lighting that allows you to set the tone, definitely do so. 

"When it comes to lighting, being able to adjust levels for the activity at hand is key, whether it’s the perfect mood for watching a movie in bed or making sure there’s enough light for a good book," says Erik Smith, interior design leader at IKEA U.S. "IKEA TRÅDFRI bulbs let you pick almost any color, and you can set your preferred brightness, it’s an easy, small win to install."

For additional ways to add a little light in your tiny room, consider a few mirrors and make sure you're layering lighting sources throughout the space instead of relying solely on one overhead fixture.

4. Stay organized

You're going to need to know how to declutter a small bedroom in order to make the most out of the space. Overcrowding doesn't help any bedroom aesthetic, it only makes it more chaotic. 

"A cozy room does not equal a cluttered room," says interior designer Laura Price, founder and director of The Home Organisation. "It’s not about how much furniture or decor you have, but more about the type of textures and materials you use."

Likewise, it's equally important to have an adequate storage system so that there is order (and style) in one. Consider multifunctional dressers, storage ottomans, utility carts, and under-bed storage to keep your goods in check. 

"Having a spot for everything that a bedroom requires is how to make the most out of every inch of space," Smith adds. 

Laura Price

Laura Price is the founder and director at The Home Organisation. After a career in PR for national events and with three young children, she realized that creating organized spaces brought her moments of calm in a busy life. With a vision to help many others experience the benefits of living an organized life, The Home Organisation was born.

5. Avoid anything bulky

When configuring small bedroom layout ideas, it's important to think vertically and utilize space upwards. Anything that takes up a lot of floor space will make things more difficult than need be. 

"Avoid bulky pieces that can make the space feel cramped," suggests interior designer Soledad Alzaga. 

Soledad Alzaga

Soledad Alzaga is the founder of her eponymous business, a boutique residential and commercial interior company based in San Francisco, which was named one of the top 15 best interior design companies in the city. It assists in all aspects of the design and build process of residential and commercial properties from start to finish including consulting and working with architects, builders, and engineers

6. Incorporate natural elements

Whether it's mirrors to enhance the lighting, rustic wooden elements, or a few of the best plants for apartments, Alzaga insists that it's critical to have a natural feel in the bedroom to complement the hygge inspo you're chasing. 

FAQs

Trying to create the perfect, cozy sleep sanctuary? We can't blame you! No matter what look you're going for, designers insist that these small bedroom design mistakes need to be avoided at all costs, so proceed carefully before making any adjustments.