Mistake 1: Ignoring the corners. Use the corners of your bedroom to create more storage. A corner hanging bar such as the one below can be used for sweaters or blankets.
Corner Hanging Bar, $50, CB2.Mistake 2: Buying furniture that doesn’t have a dual purpose. Invest in a bed that has storage underneath or a desk that folds against the wall to maximize space effectively. This simple and practical storage bed frame is from West Elm.
Pivot Storage Bed Frame, from $1,300, West Elm.Mistake 3: Putting something on the floor when it could be attached to a wall. Mount lamps and floating shelves to the wall and save floor space. We love these swing lamps from onefortythree.
Hard-wired swing-arm lamp, $95, onefortythree.Mistake 4: Forgetting a mirror. Mirrors open up a space and make a room feel a lot bigger and filled with light. They can also act as a piece of art.
(Photo, Sian Richards.)Mistake 5: Keeping everything on display. A small space can easily look cluttered. Opt for cabinets that have doors, or store things in baskets along a bookshelf for a clean, streamlined look. Select only certain things you want to display and show them off on a simple display shelf.
Wooden Circle Wall Shelf, $129, Urban Outfitters.Mistake 6: Painting all of your walls white. Now is your chance to get creative! Choose a wall in your bedroom to paint a bold accent colour or to cover with wallpaper. This will add character to your small space. Don't be afraid to choose furniture and fabric with more personality.
Mistake 7: Thinking bedside tables are necessary. Look for a headboard with storage instead. This one from Ikea has shelving attached to it.
Mandal Headboard, $170, Ikea.Mistake 8: Using heavy curtains that take up floor space. Use roman blinds in your small bedroom for a clean, soft look.
(Photo, Roberto Caruso.)Mistake 9: Not using the space at the foot of your bed. You'll quickly find this is a perfect place for storage. Use a decorative trunk to stow extra sheets and pillows.
Bengal Trunk, $230, Pier1 ImportsMistake 10: Thinking that a small bedroom can't be stylish or functional. In a way, small spaces make it even easier to add your own style to a room. You've got limited space but ample opportunity to get creative. Happy small bedroom decorating!
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