Whether your bedroom is solely for sleeping, or you see it as a multi-use room where you also work, exercise, and relax, these bedroom layout tips will get you started on creating a serene haven where you can express the real you.
1. Start Your Bedroom Design Plan with the Bed
To maximize space, you’ll want the headboard against a wall.
Do you spend time in bed reading the paper in the morning or reading yourself asleep at night? Long ago, my husband and I began a ritual of having our morning coffee and reading our morning paper in bed. We positioned our bed so that, as we sat back against the headboard, we could enjoy the fresh sights and sounds of the morning through the window across from us. A high window above the headboard wakes us with natural light diffused and softened through linen shades.
It’s best if you can provide 24 inches (60 cm) of pathway around the sides of and foot of your bed, but you can get by with less.
2. Measure Your Room and All Furniture
Grab your tape measure, ruler, and graph paper. Measure your room’s footprint. Take an approximate measurement of your bed and other furniture pieces, or find the measurements from the supplier if you’re getting new furniture.
The standard depth for most dressers is 20 to 22 inches (51-56 cm). Your layout should provide at least 42 inches (107 cm) in front of all dressers, armoires, and wardrobes, so that drawers and doors have enough clearance to open fully.
Don’t forget to plan for bedside tables. These should have room for reading lamps, books and magazines, and other comforts.
3. Designate Spots for Sitting, Working, or Exercising
If you have room, a sitting area for conversation, reading, and quiet reflection adds a touch of class to a bedroom. You can cheat a little on the 24 inches of space between pieces of furniture recommended for a living room layout. 20 inches (51 cm), though, is a minimum.
Look for alcoves near windows that can be used as space for sitting areas, home offices, or exercise nooks. Benches, ottomans, and similar furnishings found in other rooms work well in bedrooms as they are great multi-purpose pieces that can work as seating, as tables, or as open storage for books or linens.
Have a great time working on your bedroom layout and design plan. Don’t hesitate to brainstorm through several different layout ideas and decorating schemes.
As always, feel free to contact us with questions or challenges and we’ll do our best to help.