Have you ever felt like your bedroom is more of a closet than a living space? In big cities across the US and beyond, minuscule bedrooms abound, and finding small bedroom ideas that truly work can be a frustrating challenge. But what if we told you there are clever decorating tricks that can transform even the most narrow of spaces into an inspiring, storage-savvy oasis? Get ready to maximize your square footage and achieve the cozy, comfortable bedroom of your dreams.
This blog will give you the detailed long narrow bedroom layout ideas and the ways to arrange it beautifully.
Embrace a Minimalist Approach
There’s small and then there is narrow. A narrow bedroom can be difficult to work with as this space traditionally calls for multiple pieces of furniture, such as nightstands on both sides of a bed and a dresser or armoire that may be difficult to squeeze in comfortably. This shape of room can also be challenging to design as extra-long walls on two sides can feel endless and may lack visual interest. The good news is, there are plenty of ways to make the most of an oddly shaped, small bedroom without embarking on a major project.
When arranging a long and narrow bedroom, consider embracing a minimalist approach. Opt for a streamlined bed frame and minimize the number of side tables or dressers to create a sense of openness. This will help make a small narrow bedroom look bigger and prevent the space from feeling cluttered. Additionally, a minimalist design can be an effective way to layout a small bedroom by emphasizing clean lines and uncluttered surfaces.
Similarly, styling a long narrow room with a minimalist aesthetic can work wonders. Use light colors, such as white or soft grays, on the walls to create the illusion of a more spacious environment. Incorporate mirrors strategically to reflect light and expand the perceived size of the room. By keeping the decor simple and focused, you can transform a narrow bedroom into a calming, harmonious retreat.
Clever Storage Solutions
The bed (and the space underneath) is your secret weapon in terms of maximizing storage space in a long rectangular bedroom. Investing in a bed that comes equipped with storage drawers, such as IKEA’s MALM bed, can do wonders in terms of clearing out clutter and helping you get organized. You can also simply purchase some storage bins to slide under an existing bed frame if it’s high enough.
When it comes to where to put the bed in a narrow bedroom, the key is to take advantage of every available inch of space. By incorporating smart storage solutions like under-bed drawers or a bed with built-in shelves, you can free up valuable floor space and keep your narrow bedroom feeling neat and uncluttered.
Long Narrow Bedroom Layout Ideas to Maximize Light and Space
Take a cue from this Barcelona home and create an optical illusion with a mirror. This will make the room appear larger in an instant, and it is also a great way to break up long, narrow wall space. Strategically placing mirrors can help to reflect light and visually expand a small, narrow bedroom, making it feel more open and airy.
Another way to maximize light and space in a long, narrow bedroom is to prioritize light-colored, minimalist furnishings and decor. Opt for a light-colored bed frame, nightstands, and other pieces that won’t visually weigh down the space. Incorporate sheer window treatments that allow natural light to flow in, creating an illusion of depth and spaciousness.
Finally, consider arranging the furniture in a way that makes the most of the room’s unique shape. Placing the bed perpendicular to the long wall can help break up the linear feel, while positioning a dresser or armoire at the end of the bed can create a sense of visual balance. By thoughtfully arranging the layout, you can make a small, narrow bedroom feel more open and inviting.
Positioning all the accessories and bed
When it comes to small bedroom layout ideas, the biggest decision to make is where to position the bed – being the largest piece of bedroom furniture, this will have a significant impact on the look and feel of the space, as well as how it’s used. Often with small spaces, the size often dictates the orientation of the bed, but where there is a decision to be made, experts recommend putting the bed in the center of a main wall.
Arranging a long and narrow bedroom can be a challenge, but strategically placing the bed can make a big difference. Positioning the furniture and bed in the center of the main wall helps to balance the space and makes the room feel more open and inviting. This layout also allows for better traffic flow around the bed, which is essential in a small bedroom. Additionally, centering the bed creates symmetry and visual interest, making the most of the long, narrow dimensions.
When deciding where to put the bed in a narrow bedroom, consider the other furniture pieces and accessories you plan to include. Placing the bed in the center of the wall leaves space on either side for nightstands, lamps, or other bedside essentials. This arrangement also allows you to incorporate a dresser, armoire, or other storage solutions without feeling cramped.
Get Creative with Unconventional Design
When it comes to making the most of a small, narrow bedroom, getting creative with unconventional design can be a game-changer. Take, for instance, this Pasadena studio apartment that makes the most of its limited square footage and architectural quirks with a Murphy Bed. A narrow bedroom can seriously benefit from this clever contraption, as it creates extra room when you’re entertaining, studying, or lounging, while offering plenty of coziness when it’s time to hit the hay.
The beauty of a Murphy Bed is that it allows you to maximize the available space in your narrow bedroom without sacrificing comfort or functionality. Whether you’re looking to create a multi-purpose room or just need to make the most of a tight floorplan, this innovative solution can be a game-changer for small spaces. By seamlessly integrating the bed into the wall, you can free up valuable floor space for other furniture, activities, or simply a more open and airy feel.
Add Visual Interest
If you are looking to make the most of space in a child’s bedroom, consider creating a bed nook. This not only is an efficient use of space but also injects an element of fun that little ones will love. In this room designed by Studio Peake, the inside of the nook has been papered to zone the space from the rest of the room. A versatile abstract design in a unisex color palette will not only appeal to children but also makes a playful guest bedroom idea.
When styling a long, narrow room, adding visual interest is key. The bed nook concept is a great way to break up the space and create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. By papering the inside of the nook, you can establish a distinct area within the larger room, helping to define the space and add visual depth. The abstract, gender-neutral pattern adds a touch of whimsy that will delight both children and adult guests.
To further enhance the how do you style a long narrow room? approach, consider incorporating other design elements that draw the eye and create visual intrigue. Layering textures, playing with scale, and incorporating unexpected pops of color can all help to make a long, narrow space feel more dynamic and engaging. With a bit of creativity, you can transform even the most challenging bedroom layout into a visually captivating and functional retreat.
FAQs On Narrow Bedroom
How can I make a long, narrow bedroom feel broader and more spacious?
Use light colors while painting your room walls and furniture to make the room feel larger and more open. Tactically place mirrors to reflect light and create depth. Incorporate horizontal lines and layered lighting to distribute light evenly and reduce shadows.
What furniture arrangement works best for a long, narrow bedroom?
Place the bed against the shorter wall to maximize space or along one side with enough room to walk around. Use multi-functional furniture like beds with storage drawers or wall-mounted desks to clear the floor space. Opt for tall, narrow storage solutions and create distinct zones to break up the long space for different activities.
How can I use decor to enhance a long, narrow bedroom?
Select rugs to define different areas and add warmth, choosing patterns across the width to create a sense of width. Hang art or decor pieces on the shorter walls to draw the eye horizontally and add interest. Floor-to-ceiling curtains and accent walls help balance proportions and make the space more cohesive.
What are some space-saving furniture ideas for a long, narrow bedroom?
Choose a Murphy bed that folds into the wall when not in use to free up floor space. Use loft beds to create additional usable space underneath for a desk, seating area, or storage. Wall-mounted desks, shelves, and built-in storage units can maximize storage and keep the room open and uncluttered.