Let’s face it—small bedrooms can be a challenge. We’ve all been there, trying to cram everything we need into a space that feels way too tiny.
But what if we told you that a cozy, stylish, and functional small bedroom isn’t just a dream? You don’t have to sacrifice comfort or style just because your space is limited!
With a few clever tricks and thoughtful design choices, you can transform your small bedroom into a spacious-feeling sanctuary.
In this blog post, we’re sharing 51+ cozy and stylish small bedroom ideas that are guaranteed to open up your room and make it feel much larger than it actually is.
Ready to turn your compact space into a relaxing retreat? Let’s dive in!
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Opt for furniture with slim legs
Furniture with slim, tapered legs can create a more spacious feel in any small bedroom. Pieces like mid-century modern chairs, desks, and nightstands give the illusion of more room by allowing light to flow underneath. This trick visually lightens the overall look of the room.
When furniture sits closer to the floor, it tends to make a space feel heavier and more crowded. Slim-legged furniture solves this problem by keeping the room open and airy. It’s a small change that has a big impact on how large your bedroom feels.
If you can, choose furniture that is lightweight and easy to move around. This flexibility lets you rearrange the room when you need more space, making it feel more dynamic and less cramped.
Install recessed lighting
Instead of using bulky ceiling lights, install recessed lighting to save space and add a clean, modern touch. Recessed lights are embedded into the ceiling, eliminating the need for hanging fixtures. This not only gives the room more vertical space but also makes it feel less cluttered.
Recessed lights can be placed strategically to highlight key areas like the bed, a reading nook, or a closet. They brighten up the room without overwhelming it, which is ideal for smaller spaces. Plus, you can control the mood by using dimmers or adjustable lighting.
Since they don’t take up any physical space, recessed lights are perfect for rooms with low ceilings. They create a streamlined look and maximize every inch of available space.
Hang wall-mounted sconces
Instead of cluttering up your nightstands with lamps, opt for wall-mounted sconces. They provide focused lighting without taking up any surface space. Wall sconces are perfect for reading or task lighting while keeping your bedside table clear for other essentials.
Mount them on either side of the bed for a balanced, symmetrical look. This frees up your nightstands for decorative items, books, or storage, instantly decluttering the area. Plus, they come in various styles, so you can choose ones that suit your aesthetic.
Not only do sconces save space, but they also create a cozier, more intimate atmosphere. By freeing up table space, you create a more organized and streamlined look.
Hang a Large Art Piece
Hanging a large art piece in a small bedroom is a bold and effective way to make the space feel more open and stylish. Instead of crowding the walls with several smaller frames or décor, a single oversized piece creates a focal point that draws the eye. It simplifies the room’s look, making it feel more cohesive and less cluttered.
A large piece of art can also give the illusion of more space. By commanding attention, it distracts from the room’s smaller dimensions and adds depth. You can choose a vibrant piece to inject color or a more neutral one to keep things light and airy.
When placed above the bed or on a feature wall, a large artwork can enhance the room’s aesthetic without needing much else in terms of decoration. It’s a simple, low-maintenance way to make a big impact in a small space.
Use sheer curtains
Sheer curtains are a great way to let in more natural light while maintaining privacy. Heavy, dark drapes can make a small room feel closed off, but sheer fabrics keep things light and airy. They add softness to the room without taking away from the sense of space.
Since sheer curtains don’t block out much light, they’re perfect for bedrooms where you want to maximize brightness. The natural light coming in helps to visually enlarge the space. You can even layer them with heavier curtains if you need more privacy at night.
The translucent quality of sheer curtains also adds a touch of elegance. They provide a clean, minimalist look that won’t overwhelm a small bedroom.
Place a wall-mounted fold-out ironing board
A fold-out ironing board is a brilliant space-saving solution for small bedrooms. Instead of setting up a bulky standalone ironing board, you can mount one on the wall and fold it down when needed. It’s practical and can be hidden away when not in use, keeping the room uncluttered.
This is especially helpful in bedrooms that double as a dressing area. You won’t need to sacrifice precious floor space to handle your ironing chores. Plus, the convenience of having it easily accessible means you’ll iron clothes quickly and with less hassle.
Wall-mounted fold-out boards come in a variety of sizes and styles. You can even paint or decorate the exterior to match your room, blending it seamlessly into your space.
Use mirrored sliding wardrobe doors
Mirrored sliding wardrobe doors are a dual-purpose addition to a small bedroom. Not only do they save space by eliminating the need for swinging doors, but the mirrors also reflect light, making the room feel bigger and brighter. It’s an instant optical illusion that expands the space.
Traditional wardrobe doors can take up precious square footage when opened, but sliding doors glide neatly along their tracks, allowing you to access your wardrobe without disrupting the flow of the room. It’s especially handy in tight spaces where every inch counts.
The mirrored surface adds another layer of functionality by serving as a full-length mirror. This means you don’t need to find extra space for a standing mirror, freeing up even more floor space.
Incorporate built-in seating
Built-in seating can be a game-changer for small bedrooms, especially when it doubles as storage. Adding a window seat with hidden compartments underneath is a perfect example. It provides a cozy spot to sit while keeping clutter neatly tucked away.
This kind of multi-functional furniture makes the most of awkward spaces, like under windows or in corners. It adds charm and practicality, giving you more room to store things like blankets, books, or even shoes. Plus, it creates a dedicated seating area without taking up valuable floor space.
If you don’t have space for traditional furniture, built-ins like this allow you to customize your room according to your needs. It’s a clever way to make the most of limited square footage.
Hang art or décor higher up on walls
Hanging art or décor higher up on the walls can trick the eye into thinking the room is taller and more spacious than it actually is. This technique draws attention upwards, emphasizing the vertical space in the room and creating the illusion of height.
Rather than clustering artwork at eye level, position it closer to the ceiling. This creates visual interest while leaving the lower half of the walls more open, making the room feel less cramped. It’s a simple yet effective way to change the perception of a small bedroom.
You can also consider hanging shelves or floating décor items high on the walls. This not only adds style but also keeps valuable wall and floor space free for other uses.
Create a recessed nook
A recessed nook can be a cozy and practical addition to a small bedroom. By creating a built-in space within the wall, you can tuck in a bed, desk, or storage unit without taking up extra floor space. It’s like gaining an extra little room within your room.
Recessed nooks can be perfect for creating a mini workspace or reading area. They provide a sense of separation without needing any walls or dividers, helping to keep the main space open and airy. It also makes the room feel more organized and functional.
By using the depth of your walls, you’re maximizing the available space without cluttering up the room. It’s a great way to enhance the layout without sacrificing comfort or style.
Install a Dormer Window
Installing a dormer window in a small bedroom is a great way to bring in more natural light and create the feeling of extra space. Dormer windows extend outward from the roof, creating a little alcove that not only increases the ceiling height in that area but also opens up more usable floor space.
By adding a dormer, you can turn an otherwise cramped or sloped section of the room into a cozy nook. It’s perfect for creating a small seating area, a reading corner, or even additional storage. Plus, the extra height gives the room a more open, airy feeling, making it seem larger than it is.
The natural light pouring through the dormer window can make a big difference in brightening up the room. This helps to reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day and makes the bedroom feel more inviting. The dormer window also adds architectural interest, giving the space more character and charm.
Install an L-shaped desk
An L-shaped desk is an excellent choice for a small bedroom because it fits neatly into a corner, leaving the rest of the room open. It provides ample workspace without dominating the room. This type of desk can also double as a vanity or additional storage area.
The key benefit of an L-shaped desk is that it maximizes underused corner space. Corners often go neglected in small rooms, but with this design, you can turn them into functional work areas. It also leaves more wall space for other furniture or décor.
Additionally, having the desk in the corner means that the room feels less crowded. You get plenty of surface area to work with without taking away from the rest of your bedroom’s layout.
Add under-window storage
Adding a storage bench under the window is a clever way to make use of otherwise wasted space. It gives you extra seating while providing hidden storage underneath for blankets, pillows, or clothes. The window seat also creates a cozy nook perfect for reading or relaxing.
In small bedrooms, storage benches help reduce clutter by giving you a place to stow items that might otherwise take up valuable floor space. Plus, they serve a dual purpose as both seating and storage, which is ideal for compact spaces.
By placing the bench under the window, you’re using an area that might not be suitable for traditional furniture. It’s a functional and stylish solution that maximizes every inch of your room.
Loft Bed with Workspace Beneath
A loft bed with a workspace beneath is one of the smartest ways to maximize space in a small bedroom. By elevating the bed, you free up valuable floor space that can be used for a desk, bookshelf, or even a cozy study nook. This layout is especially useful in small rooms where every square inch matters.
The area beneath the loft bed can easily be transformed into a functional home office or study space. By adding a desk, chair, and some shelves, you create a dedicated workspace without sacrificing the room’s open feel. This is ideal for students, remote workers, or anyone who needs a small, efficient area for productivity.
Besides saving space, loft beds with workspaces also create a fun, modern look. It turns your bedroom into a multi-functional zone, combining sleep and work in a compact, organized setup. It’s a perfect solution for small spaces with big needs!
Install floor-to-ceiling curtains
Want to make your room feel taller instantly? Floor-to-ceiling curtains are your new best friend!
These long, flowy beauties draw the eye upward, making your ceilings seem higher than they actually are. It’s like a magic trick for your windows!
Plus, they add a touch of luxury that’ll make you feel like you’re waking up in a fancy hotel every day. Just make sure to choose light, airy fabrics to keep things from feeling too heavy.
Utilize under-bed storage
Let’s face it, the space under your bed is prime real estate in a small bedroom. Don’t let it go to waste!
If you prefer to stash away items out of sight unlike what you see in the above bedroom, invest in some rolling storage boxes or lift-up bed frames with built-in storage. It’s like having a secret basement for your stuff!
You can stash away out-of-season clothes, extra bedding, or even those embarrassing yearbooks you can’t bear to throw out. Out of sight, out of mind, but there when you need them!
Mount floating shelves
Floating shelves are like magic hovering platforms for your stuff. They’re the superhero of small space storage!
They provide storage without the bulkiness of traditional bookcases. Plus, they make your walls look interesting without taking up precious floor space.
Use them to display books, plants, or your collection of tiny ceramic elephants. Whatever floats your boat (or your shelves)!
Install a Big Sliding Glass Window
Ever feel like your small bedroom is a bit too… boxy? Time to think outside the box – or in this case, outside the window!
Installing a big sliding glass window can be a total game-changer for a small bedroom. It’s like creating a portal to the outside world, blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors.
Suddenly, your room isn’t just your room anymore – it’s your room plus all that beautiful scenery outside!
The extra light that pours in will make your space feel twice as big. Make sure you’ve got some good curtains or blinds too.
Create a loft bed
Okay, I’ve got to share this one – I recently took the plunge and installed a loft bed for my friend’s tiny studio apartment. Let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer for her!
It’s like having a treehouse right in your bedroom. She feels like a kid again every time she climbs up to bed!
The best part? All that space underneath! I’ve helped her desk set up down there, creating a cozy little office nook. It’s like having a secret room within a room.
Just a word of warning: make sure your ceilings are high enough like the one we see above. She had bumped her head a few times before she got used to it!
Incorporate multi-functional furniture
In a small bedroom, your furniture needs to work harder than a stressed-out college student during finals week.
Look for pieces that can do double (or triple) duty. A storage ottoman that can be a seat and hide your stuff? Yes, please!
Or how about a minimalistic desk that doubles up as a vanity area when you’re not using it?
Paint walls light colors
Want to make your room feel bigger without knocking down walls? Grab a paintbrush and go light!
Light colors reflect more light, making your space feel open and airy. It’s like giving your room a big breath of fresh air.
Whites, soft greys, and pale blues are great options. But don’t be afraid to add a pop of color here and there for some personality!
Get a Glass Table Lamp and a Few Glass Decor Pieces
Incorporating glass decor pieces such as a glass table lamp can do wonders for making a small bedroom feel more spacious and elegant.
Glass has a unique ability to reflect light and create the illusion of openness, making the room feel less cluttered and more airy.
A clear or frosted glass table lamp on a nightstand or dresser will add subtle elegance while keeping the space light and visually unobstructed.
The transparency of glass makes it an ideal material for small spaces, as it doesn’t add any visual weight. A few carefully chosen glass décor pieces, such as vases, candle holders, or small sculptures, can enhance the room’s style without overwhelming it.
Hang a large mirror
Mirrors are like windows to alternate dimensions where your room is twice as big. Okay, not really, but they do work wonders!
A large mirror can make your space feel much bigger by reflecting light and creating the illusion of depth. It’s like a magic portal to More Room Land.
Plus, it gives you a chance to check your outfit before heading out. Win-win!
Use vertical space efficiently
When you’re short on square footage, it’s time to think up. Way up!
Use tall bookcases, vertical shelving units, or even hang things from the ceiling. It’s like playing Tetris with your stuff, but vertically!
Install Hooks on your Bedroom Door’s Back
Alright, let’s talk about that unsung hero of small bedrooms: the back of your door. It’s like the introvert of your room – quiet, often overlooked, but full of potential!
Installing hooks on the back of your bedroom door is like finding an extra closet you never knew you had. It’s the perfect spot for hanging robes, jackets, scarves, or that growing collection of tote bags you swear you’ll use someday. Suddenly, your floor is free of clutter, and you feel like a storage genius!
The best part? These hooks are hidden when your door is open, keeping your room looking neat and tidy.
Opt for a platform bed
Platform beds are like the cool, minimalist cousins of traditional beds. They’re sleek, they’re chic, and they can make your room feel bigger!
Because they’re lower to the ground, they create more visual space above them. It’s like lowering the floor without actually doing any construction.
Many platform beds come with built-in storage too. It’s like getting an extra dresser for free!
Hang a Church-style Mirror Above Your Bed
Ready to add a touch of gothic glamour to your small bedroom? Let’s talk about hanging a church-style mirror above your bed. It’s like inviting a little piece of Notre Dame to watch over your sleep!
These ornate, arched mirrors aren’t just for cathedrals anymore. Hanging one above your bed instantly adds drama and depth to your room.
It’s like creating a faux headboard that doubles as a portal to Narnia! Okay, maybe not Narnia, but definitely to a seemingly larger bedroom.
Word to the wise: make sure it’s securely fastened. You don’t want a midnight wake-up call courtesy of falling decor!
Install sliding doors
Sick of doors hogging all your precious space? Sliding doors are here to save the day!
These space-saving superstars glide along the wall instead of swinging out. It’s like having a secret passageway in your room!
Plus, they add a touch of modern flair. You can even get frosted glass ones for that extra fancy feel. Just don’t forget to leave some wall space for them to slide into!
Choose streamlined furniture
When it comes to furniture in a small bedroom, think sleek and chic, not big and bulky.
Go for pieces with clean lines and minimal ornamentation. It’s like putting your furniture on a diet – all the function without the extra fluff!
This helps maintain an open, airy feel in your room. Plus, it’s a great excuse to channel your inner minimalist!
Incorporate glass elements
Want to add some magic to your small space? Glass is your new best friend!
Glass furniture, like a side table or desk, takes up visual space without making the room feel crowded. It’s like having invisible furniture!
Even small touches like glass lamp bases or picture frames can help. They reflect light and keep things feeling open and airy.
Dedicate a Wall for Storage
Got a blank wall? Time to make it work for you! Turning a whole wall into a storage powerhouse is like giving your room a organization superhero.
First up, floating shelves. These bad boys look like they’re defying gravity (cool, right?). Use them to display books, plants, or your prized collection of vintage teacups. They’re like little stages for your stuff!
Next, consider a pegboard. It’s like a customizable Swiss Army knife for your wall. Hooks, shelves, baskets – you can rearrange it whenever the mood strikes. It’s perfect for everything from kitchen utensils to craft supplies.
Don’t forget about open cabinets and hooks. Open cabinets give you easy access to your stuff while still keeping things tidy.
And hooks? They’re the unsung heroes of organization. Hang bags, jackets, or even that guitar you swear you’re going to learn to play someday.
Hang pendant lights
Free up your precious nightstand space by taking your lighting to new heights!
Pendant lights hung on either side of the bed look super chic and save space. It’s like jewelry for your ceiling!
Plus, they draw the eye upward, making your ceilings feel higher. Just make sure they’re hung at the right height – you don’t want to bonk your head every time you get up!
Maximize natural light
Let the sunshine in, baby! Natural light is like a magic wand for small spaces.
Keep your windows clear of heavy, dark curtains. Opt for sheer or light-filtering options instead. It’s like giving your room a breath of fresh air!
If privacy is a concern, try bottom-up shades. They let in light from the top while keeping nosy neighbors from peeking in. Win-win!
Create a Corner Reading Nook with Full-size Glass Window
Picture this: a comfy chair or small loveseat tucked into a corner, right next to a big, beautiful glass window.
It’s like having your own private portal to the outside world while you’re lost in your favorite stories.
The full-size window is key here. It floods the space with natural light, making it feel larger and more open.
Plus, it gives you a great view while you’re reading – perfect for those moments when you need to look up and ponder that plot twist!
Don’t forget to add some soft pillows and a cozy throw blanket.
Create a feature wall
Who says small rooms can’t make a big statement? Enter the feature wall!
Pick one wall to be the star of the show. Maybe add some bold wallpaper, a mural, or an interesting paint technique. It’s like giving your room a focal point to draw the eye.
The other walls can stay neutral to keep things from feeling too busy. It’s all about balance, folks!
Pro tip: Choose a pattern or design that has some depth to it, like a forest scene or a cityscape. This can create the illusion of the room extending beyond the wall, making your space feel larger!
Use transparent furniture
Clear furniture is like the ninja of the furniture world – it’s there, but you can’t see it!
Acrylic chairs, glass tables, or even clear plastic organizers can add function without adding visual clutter. It’s like having your furniture and eating it too (wait, that’s not right…).
This trick works especially well for smaller items like side tables or desk chairs. Just don’t go overboard, or your room might start to look like a greenhouse!
Use Striped Patterns Strategically
Stripes are a classic design element that can make a big impact in a small space. Vertical stripes draw the eye upward, making the ceiling appear higher. Horizontal stripes can make a room look wider.
Consider using striped wallpaper or bedding to add visual interest. The key is to use stripes in moderation to avoid overwhelming the space. Stick to a neutral color palette for a timeless look.
Implement a minimalist design
Channel your inner Marie Kondo and embrace the “less is more” philosophy!
Stick to the essentials and get rid of anything that doesn’t spark joy (or serve a purpose). It’s like giving your room a zen makeover.
Choose simple, functional pieces and keep decorations to a minimum. Your space will feel cleaner, calmer, and surprisingly, bigger!
Incorporate a Fold-Down Desk
A fold-down desk is a great way to save space in a small bedroom. When you’re not using it, you can simply fold it up against the wall. This keeps the room open and uncluttered.
Choose a sleek design that blends seamlessly with your decor. A fold-down desk can also double as a nightstand or a vanity. It’s a versatile piece that maximizes every square inch of your room
Utilize corner spaces
Corners are like the forgotten stepchildren of room design. Time to show them some love!
Corner shelves, a corner desk, or even a cozy reading nook can turn dead space into a functional area. It’s like finding extra room you didn’t know you had!
Don’t forget about upper corners too – they’re great for plants or decorative items. Every inch counts in a small bedroom!
Construct a vertical floor-to-ceiling shelf
A vertical concrete floor-to-ceiling shelf isn’t just a shelf, it’s a statement piece. It’s like having a piece of modern art that also holds your stuff. How cool is that?
The floor-to-ceiling design draws the eye upward, making your room feel taller. It’s like a magic trick for your walls!
Install a skylight
Why settle for windows when you can have a portal to the sky?
A skylight can flood your room with natural light, making it feel more open and airy. It’s like having a sunroof for your bedroom!
Plus, stargazing from your bed? Yes, please! Just make sure you have good blinds, or you might get an unwelcome wake-up call from the sun.
Go for a Wallpaper That Has Depth
Choosing a wallpaper with depth is a fantastic way to create the illusion of a larger space in a small bedroom.
Patterns or designs that give a sense of distance, like a forest scene, a cityscape, or a mural with a horizon, can make the walls feel as though they extend beyond their actual limits.
This trick works by drawing the eye outward, creating the sensation of a room that continues beyond the wall. It’s a clever way to make a compact space feel much more expansive and open.
Use Generous Amount of White/Light Colors
Incorporating a generous amount of white in your small bedroom can make it feel more open and airy. White reflects light, giving the room a bright and spacious look.
It creates a clean, minimalist aesthetic that helps reduce visual clutter, making the space appear larger than it actually is.
Try painting the walls white or choosing white furniture pieces to establish a light and serene atmosphere. White bedding, curtains, and rugs can also contribute to the overall effect.
If you’re worried about the room feeling too sterile, add a few textured elements, like a pattered wallpaper, to soften the space.
Use multi-functional room divider
Want to create separate areas without actual walls? Room dividers are your new best friend!
Look for dividers that double as storage or display space. Bookcases, pegboards, or even hanging plants can do the trick. It’s like killing two birds with one stone!
This helps break up your space visually without making it feel closed off. Plus, it gives you extra storage or display options. Talk about multitasking!
Contemporary Bedroom Decor Featuring Wooden Wall Art
The contemporary bedroom showcases a stained wood bed adorned with a combination of white, beige, and green bedding, complemented by wooden wall art frames. An elegant wood and black metal end table completes the look. Enhance the room’s tranquility with touches of greenery and white accents creatively arranged on a woven tray.
Credit: thisiswinnieshouse
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Elegant Nightstand Crafted from Dark Stained Wood
In a charming farmhouse bedroom, a wreath hangs above a bed dressed in white, beige, and black tones. A dark stained wood bedside table, illuminated by a soft white and tan lamp, adds rustic charm. The ensemble is tied together by a tasteful black and tan area rug beneath the bed.
Credit: theprovidencecottage
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Rustic Farmhouse Bedroom with Two-toned Nightstand
This rustic farmhouse bedroom boasts a white shiplap accent wall complementing a beige bed adorned with white and gray bedding. The bed is accompanied by a chic two-toned white nightstand, hosting a charming white table lamp. Complete the cozy ambiance with white curtains on the windows and a tan Roman shade.
Credit: theboyerhome
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Quaint Bedroom Setting with Off-white Beadboard Wall
A small bedroom achieves a significant impact with a stained wood bed positioned against an off-white beadboard half wall. The bed, dressed in beige bedding, is accompanied by a light wood night table. Task lighting is ensured with a black table lamp adorned with a tan shade.
Credit: style_meetshome
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Stylish Bedroom Corner Featuring Indoor Plants
This bedroom highlights a geometric taupe accent wallpaper beneath paneled windows, adorned with white curtains. A potted ficus tree and a wooden bench with smaller plants create a serene corner.
Credit: ourlakeviewhaven
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Small Bedroom Design with Chic Black Nightstand
A beige upholstered bed with wooden accents is styled with white, tan, and green bedding. The bed is illuminated by a brown and tan table lamp on a sleek black nightstand. Elevate the space with a wooden and woven bench topped by a brown leather cushion.
Credit: meglorencreates
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Minimalist Bedroom Featuring Black Metal Bed Frame
A white metal bed adorned with white, gray, and beige bedding stands beneath striking black frame artwork. Adjacent to the bed, a white window with blinds and a curtain adds to the room’s minimalist appeal. A white nightstand with rustic window shutter decor completes the bedside styling.
Credit: notyetafarmhouse
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Serene Boudoir with Neutral Brick Wall
A large cream bed adorned with plush pillows is set against a neutral beige brick accent wall. Flanking the bed are white nightstands topped with substantial gray lamps featuring cream shades.
Credit: prairiefarmhouseliving
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Wrap-Up
Who knew a small bedroom could offer so many possibilities?
With these cozy and stylish ideas, you can create a space that feels open, airy, and oh-so-inviting.
Remember, the key is to be intentional with your choices—from the colors you use to the furniture you select. A few smart adjustments can make a world of difference.
So, whether you’re adding some mirrors to reflect light, using multi-functional furniture, or just getting creative with your layout, these tips will help you make the most of your space.
Which idea are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments, and happy decorating!