Small bedrooms can be tricky to decorate, often ending up as unloved spaces with little personality, because we’re worried too much stuff will “shrink” them visually. Conversely, small spare rooms can end up as dumping grounds for old fitness equipment, packaging or drying washing.

While a typical master bedroom is usually large enough to accommodate wardrobes and chests of drawers, if you’re trying to turn a second or third bedroom into a functioning space to sleep, whether for you or for guests or children, you may be despairing that it’s only big enough for a bed and little else.

So how to make the most of every square inch and ensure a small bedroom is both stylish and functional? Here are some dos and don’ts for making a small bedroom look good and work hard.

Do: Copy hotel style

Many boutique hotels have tiny rooms, yet guests hardly notice, as they’re so carefully decorated. Copy some of the tricks they employ: A padded headboard, plush throws and multiple pillows will offer a similar scaled-down luxury at home. Try to slot in bedside tables, even if they’re just small shelves, for somewhere to set down a morning cuppa.

Do: Build around the bedhead

In this airy bedroom, a built-in unit around the bedhead makes great use of the limited space without impinging on other walls, keeping an open feel. Also, as this blue and green scheme demonstrates, adding bright colours to a predominantly white room is an easy way to inject energy and life without closing things in. Stick to one or two hues so things don’t get too busy.

Don’t: Assume it’s too tiny for two

Even small guest rooms can often accommodate two single beds; consider extra-narrow designs if necessary. This chic room doesn’t compromise on style, with painted brickwork and a graphic rug adding an industrial attitude. Wall lights are a great space-saving solution, but if they’re not an option, try reading lights that clip onto headboards.
If conventional bedside tables aren’t possible, think laterally: Here, two logs do the same job.

Do: Add a feature wall

There’s something depressing about an unloved boxroom with zero personality. Painting all four walls the same colour can exaggerate the boxy feel, so instead, create a focal point by adding a wall of luxe paper, textured cladding or, as here, an interesting paint effect.
Next to the white walls, the darker shades and the ombre effect on the back wall lead the eye to it, creating a depth of field. This room may be compact, but it’s far from a featureless box.

Do: Go dual-purpose

Multi-functional furniture is your friend in a small bedroom. Here, a bookcase works as headboard, bedside table and home for books all in one. Style-wise, a piece like this also helps to transform a plain white cell into a Zen-like getaway. Ceiling-mounted spotlights are another smart move in rooms with low ceilings.

Don’t: Under-decorate

The temptation in a small space can be to pare back. But that can end up looking dull and undesigned. Don’t be scared to accommodate some of the elements you might find in a larger room, including pictures, rugs and decorative lighting. The result is a “proper” room – a cosy retreat to which you’ll enjoy escaping.

Don’t: Choose wardrobes with fussy handles

In this snug sleep space, the wardrobe almost “disappears” thanks to its minimal, hardware-free doors. A glossy finish also bounces light around the room. A bed with a simple frame is another trick for a snug space, as it appears to take up less space.