An effective master bedroom usually starts with the bed and extends beyond it with dressers, nightstands and any additional furniture required. Though this sounds straightforward enough, arranging furniture in bedrooms can sometimes prove challenging.
No matter if it’s an entire bedroom makeover or simply rearrangement of existing pieces, here are some expert-level tips to help arrange them as an expert would.
1. Make the Bed the Focal Point
The bed is the focal point of any bedroom and it should be at the heart of its arrangement. Designers usually advise placing it along the longest wall to create an aesthetically pleasing arrangement; however, due to windows and doors this may not always be feasible.
In such instances, pairing a headboard with a console or dresser is the next best solution to creating balance in the room. Select pieces with complementary finishes or styles and sizes in order to achieve this look.
Hanging art above the bed also adds an elegant touch to a room. Remember that art does not need to be in the form of traditional paintings or galleries — rustic signs, personal mementos and even tall vases can serve as striking focal points above your bed! Just ensure there is enough distance between decorative objects and your bed to avoid visual overload; this is particularly important in smaller rooms with low ceilings.
2. Keep It Simple
No matter the decor and details you include in your bedroom, it’s essential not to overdo it. Cramming an overcrowded room with furniture may make it feel smaller and uninviting.
This rule is especially relevant for master bedrooms, where it’s ideal to limit furniture pieces to a minimum. As a guideline, leave at least five inches between pieces so that the room feels open and airy.
Bedside tables can be useful in smaller rooms for holding items like books or alarm clocks, while being in keeping with the decor of the rest of the room. To avoid creating visual dissonance between different table styles throughout a space, trays may help with corralling items on top of nightstands for a polished appearance.
3. Keep It in the Center
When it comes to bedroom furniture arrangement, the best strategy is to approach it like an artist. Painters, illustrators and other artistic individuals employ a set of rules as they craft their masterpieces; so too should a master bedroom layout follow this principle.
Start by placing the largest bedroom furniture pieces, like your bed and wardrobe. Next, arrange where to place smaller items like nightstands and dressers – keeping in mind how easy it will be to access wardrobe doors or bedside tables once these have been set in their places.
If your bedroom has a walk-in closet, try placing the chest of drawers inside it to free up floor space. This allows you to add seating or desk furniture, plus an ample TV screen – an especially helpful strategy if your bedroom will serve multiple purposes, like reading or home office work.
4. Don’t Overdo It
Furniture arrangement may appear daunting at first, but it doesn’t have to be. By following some key principles you can easily design a bedroom layout that complements both your space and personality.
As a starting point, it’s key that all pieces selected for a room’s furnishings match its dimensions and ceiling height. Otherwise, your bed, dresser and nightstands could appear out-of-balance and cause the entire layout to feel dissonant.
Avoid pushing pieces up against the walls, as this will only make your room appear cramped. Pushing pieces against walls also blocks out natural light, restricts airflow, and can prevent natural ventilation. Finally, consider window placement when placing furniture – for a more relaxing sleep experience, aim to place your bed’s head so it can see outside!