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Small Bedroom Decorating Ideas on a Budget: How to Make the Most of Your Space Without Breaking the Bank

Check out lots of small bedroom decorating ideas on a budget! These ideas will help you create the bedroom you want without breaking the bank.

Small bedrooms can be challenging to decorate, especially when on a budget. However, with a little creativity and resourcefulness, it is possible to transform a small bedroom into a cozy and inviting space without breaking the bank. Whether it’s a dorm room, a guest room, or a master bedroom, let me show you some small bedroom decorating ideas that can help maximize the space and make it feel more spacious and comfortable.

One of the best ways to create the illusion of space in a small bedroom is to use light colors and minimalistic decor. Soft pastels, whites, and grays can make a small room feel airy and open, while bold colors and busy patterns can make it feel cluttered and cramped. Additionally, using multifunctional furniture, such as a bed with built-in storage or a desk that doubles as a vanity, can help save space and keep the room organized.

small bedroom decorating ideas on a budget

Since moving into our current 1980’s home, we have been tight on space and storage. I’ll be sharing some ideas I’ve created within my home to maximize space.

Even though some of these ideas aren’t specifically for a bedroom, they can be applied to any bedroom space!

Maximizing Space

Small bedrooms can present a challenge when it comes to decorating, but with a few smart strategies, you can make the most of your space. One of the keys to decorating a small bedroom is to maximize the space you have available. Here are some tips for doing just that.

Utilizing Vertical Space

When you’re short on floor space, look up. Utilizing vertical space is a great way to make the most of a small bedroom. Consider adding shelving or bookcases that go all the way up to the ceiling. You can also hang floating shelves or install a wall-mounted desk to free up floor space.

One of the best ways to add more “homework space” around our Rustic Beach cottage was when I installed a few floating desks.

Check out this awesome Kids Homework Station with IKEA SVALNÄS Wall Mounted Desk

Kids Homework Station with IKEA SVALNÄS Wall Mounted Desk
Kids homework station in the living room

This was a great addition to our sunken family room because it didn’t take up floor space and it was very shallow as far as the depth is concerned. You can also see how I made that cute indoor awning with repurposed tin.

I loved the idea and the functionality of this homework station so much that I decided to make my own DIY Modern Floating Office Desk with Acacia Butcher Block Countertop. This was born out of the need for a larger desk and storage space for my office stuff!

DIY floating desk from upper cabinets and butcher block

This was fairly easy to make, looks great and functions so well in our home. I don’t know what I would have done without it!

DIY floating desk from upper cabinets and butcher block

These “upper kitchen cabinets turned desk” have been great because I can hide the printer, scanner and all the other “ugly” office machines.

Also as far as vertical space goes, don’t discount floating shelves! I have so many open shelves on my site I don’t even know where to begin.

affordable DIY open shelving

I still think my favorite shelves are the ones in my current kitchen for the coffee bar and above the beverage bar. These would look great in a master bedroom ensuite.

coffee bar in kitchen where fridge used to sit
Modern Eclectic Beverage Bar or Coffee Bar

Multi-Functional Furniture

Another way to maximize space is to choose furniture that serves multiple purposes. For example, a bed with built-in storage drawers underneath can provide extra storage space without taking up any additional floor space. A sofa bed or futon can also be a great option if you need a place for guests to sleep but don’t have a separate guest room.

Check out how I turned my daughters trundle bed into storage here. This was a great use of space for all her miscellaneous toys.

Bunk beds for kids rooms (or any room) are also a great idea for extra bed space without taking up too much floor space. You can see more of this space from my little girls room with pink accents here.

white bunk beds with pink zipper bedding

Creative Storage Solutions

In a small bedroom, every inch of storage space counts. Get creative with your storage solutions by using items you already have, such as baskets or crates, to corral clutter. You can also use the space under your bed for storage by adding rolling storage bins or using bed risers to lift the bed off the floor like I did with my daughters trundle space listed above.

repurposed wooden crate decor
useful ways to repurpose a wooden crate

Color and Lighting

Choosing the Right Color Scheme

When it comes to decorating a small bedroom on a budget, choosing the right color scheme is essential. The right color scheme can make a small room feel larger and more spacious. Neutral colors like beige, white, and gray are great choices for a small bedroom. These colors create a calming and relaxing atmosphere, making the bedroom feel cozy and inviting. Check out some of my favorite colors below.

Best light greige colors

best light greige paint colors

Best Sherwin Williams White Paint Colors

Best Sherwin Williams White Paint colors

Another option is to use a monochromatic color scheme. This involves using different shades of the same color. For example, using light blue for the walls, bedding, and curtains can create a cohesive and calming look.

Also don’t underestimate the power of tricking the eye to make a room look larger with vertical stripes!

With our 8′ ceilings, I had to get creative to make our ceilings look taller. It worked too!

how to fake a tall ceiling

You can see how these Shiplap paneling sheets draw your eye up and make the ceiling look taller too.

cottage style bedroom with Shiplap paneling sheets

Lighting to Enhance Space

Lighting is another important aspect of small bedroom decorating. Good lighting can make a small room feel larger and more open. Natural light is the best option, so make sure to keep windows unobstructed and use sheer curtains to let in as much light as possible.

If natural light is not an option, consider using artificial lighting to enhance the space. Use a combination of overhead lighting and task lighting to create a layered and balanced look. Overhead lighting can be a ceiling fixture or a pendant light, while task lighting can be a table lamp or a floor lamp.

Let me show you a list of simple DIY lighting ideas anyone can create. These are all ideas that I’ve made in my own home.

DIY Lighting Ideas and Updates Anyone Can Create for the Home

You can also use mirrors to reflect light and make the room feel brighter and more spacious. Mirrors make a small space feel so much bigger!

Try layering mirrors too especially in small bathrooms!

how to Layer mirros

Choosing the right color scheme and lighting can make a big difference in a small room, don’t you think? By using neutral colors and natural light, you can create a calm and relaxing atmosphere. And by using a combination of overhead and task lighting, you can enhance the space and make it feel larger and more open.

DIY Decor

Small bedroom decorating ideas on a budget can be achieved through DIY decor. With a little creativity and effort, one can make their bedroom look stylish and cozy without spending much. Here are some DIY decor ideas to try:

DIY Headboards

Headboards are a great way to add personality to a bedroom. Making a DIY headboard is easy and affordable. One can use old doors, shutters, or even a piece of plywood to create a headboard. Here are some ideas:

  • Old Doors: Old doors can be repurposed into a headboard. One can paint them in a color that matches the bedroom decor or leave them as they are for a rustic look.
  • Shutters: Shutters can also be used to create a headboard. They can be painted or left as they are for a vintage look.
  • Plywood: A piece of plywood can be cut to size and painted in a color that matches the bedroom decor. One can also add fabric or wallpaper to the plywood to create a unique look.

Check out my DIY pine board headboard below. This was my first real DIY project in our previous home.

DIY Pine Board Headboard

You can also see how to paint a wall to look like a headboard with this easy project I did for my mom. You won’t believe how cool that peel and stick moulding is that I put around it!

painted wall headboard

Wall Decor Ideas

Wall decor can make a big impact on the overall look of a bedroom. Here are some DIY wall decor ideas:

  • Gallery Wall: A gallery wall is a great way to display photos, artwork, and other items. One can use frames of different sizes and shapes to create a unique look.
  • Wallpaper: Wallpaper can be used to create an accent wall. One can choose a bold pattern or a subtle texture to add interest to the room.
  • DIY Artwork: One can create their own artwork using canvas, paint, and other materials. This is a great way to add a personal touch to the room.

Gallery Wall ideas

Let me show you a few gallery wall’s I’ve created in my own home. First let’s discuss HOW to hang a gallery wall.

how to create a Gallery wall

I’ve also made a gallery wall out of woven baskets. I think this is one of my favorite DIY gallery wall ideas.

woven basket gallery wall

Wallpaper ideas

I’ve dabbled in lots of different wallpaper products so I don’t even know where to begin. First, how about sharing HOW to apply wallpaper – peel and stick vs glue down.

How to apply wallpaper; peel and stick vs. regular wallpaper

Wallpaper can really elevate a small space and make it look bigger!

This modern wallpaper accent wall transformed this bathroom from boring to fab!

modern wallpaper accent wall in bathroom

You can see more wallpaper accent wall ideas here.

wallpaper accent wall ideas

Upcycling Furniture

You know I’m no stranger to upcycling furniture. Upcycling furniture is a great way to save money and add personality to a bedroom. Here are some ideas:

  • Painting: One can paint old furniture to give it a new look. One can choose a bold color or a neutral shade to match the bedroom decor.
  • Reupholstering: Reupholstering old furniture can also give it a new look. You can choose a fabric that matches the bedroom decor or adds a pop of color.
  • Repurposing: Old furniture can be repurposed into something new. For example, an old dresser can be turned into a TV stand or a storage bench.

Check out how I repurposed a few vintage doors with sconce lights. Or how I took an thrifted plate rack and gave it three different uses.

bed in front of window with repurposed doors
repurposed plate rack three ways

Final Touches

After implementing the main design elements of the small bedroom, it’s time to add the final touches that will make the space feel complete. Here are some budget-friendly ideas to consider:

Bedding and Linens

The bedding and linens are an important aspect of any bedroom, and they can easily be updated to give the room a new look. Consider adding a colorful throw blanket or accent pillows to the bed to add a pop of color. If the bedding is looking worn or outdated, consider purchasing a duvet cover rather than a whole new bedding set.

Also consider buying affordable pillow covers rather than all new pillows. This saves not only on your budget, but storage space as well!

And when all else fails, make your own pillows with this DIY pillow cover hack.

diy no sew pillow covers

Window Treatments

Window treatments can add both style and function to a small bedroom. Consider hanging curtains that match the color scheme of the room to add a cohesive look. There are a few tricks to hanging curtains the right way.

Check out how to hang corner curtains with a corner curtain rod hack here.

cottage style bedroom with Shiplap paneling sheets corner window

Accessorizing

Accessories can add personality and style to a small bedroom without breaking the bank. Consider adding a gallery wall with framed artwork or photographs that reflect the occupant’s interests. A small rug can add warmth and texture to the room. A bedside lamp can provide both light and style to the space.

Overall, adding these final touches can make a big difference in a small bedroom without spending a lot of money. By choosing accessories that match the existing color scheme and reflect the occupant’s personality, the room can feel complete and inviting.

I sure hope I’ve given you some great ideas (maybe a few projects too?) to decorate your bedroom without breaking the bank!

Lindsey**

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