17 Ideas For a Quick Home Bedroom Refresh
Do you want to do a quick bedroom refresh but don’t want to spend too much money? If your bedroom is looking tired and in need of a spruce-up, you don’t necessarily need to embark on a full-scale renovation.
Here are 17 bedroom ideas to give your room a quick and impactful refresh.
Bedroom Refresh
We have moved house many times, and one of the first rooms I always decorate is the bedroom. We often start a large renovation project, so whilst the downstairs is chaotic and messy, our bedroom is somewhere we can retreat from it all.
And it doesn’t have to be expensive to refresh a bedroom!
1. Rearrange Your Bedroom Furniture
The easiest and most cost-effective way to start a bedroom refresh is to rearrange your bedroom furniture! Sometimes, a simple rearrangement of furniture can make your bedroom feel brand new.
Experiment with different layouts until you find one that maximizes space and creates a more inviting atmosphere.
The average bedroom size in the US is 11ft x 12ft, which is not a lot of room to play with. Placing the bed against the window gives you more space. Place a bedside table on either side and a wardrobe opposite with a chest of drawers.
Place a large area rug under the bed to anchor the space and a long bench or ottoman against the wall where the door is. Choose a bench with storage to give you more options to hide things away (which is important in a small bedroom so that it doesn’t become cluttered), and also gives you somewhere to place your clothes or extra blankets.
Another way to rearrange your bedroom is to put the bed against the left (or right, depending on where your door is), with a bedside table on either side. The wardrobe and chest of drawers can go at the end of the bed and this frees up room to place a desk and storage baskets along the wall next to the door.
This setup is a bit more cramped, so it depends on how much storage you need, and whether you need a desk in your bedroom. If you prefer a more spacious, “quiet” space, then the first option is probably best for you.
2. Declutter and Organize
This is where storage in your bedroom becomes really important. Evaluate what bedroom storage you already have in your room and what you need to remove to free up space.
Once decluttered, organize what’s left. Use bedroom storage boxes, baskets, and under-bed storage to keep everything in its place. Storage boxes can be placed under your clothes space in the wardrobe to keep things like hats, scarves, and shoes that you don’t regularly use.
Also, think about using space that isn’t currently being used. Place shelves above a chest of drawers to place small storage boxes with your jewelry in, or even a shelf above your door or bed to place books and decorative items.
3. Update Bedding
One of the quickest ways to refresh a bedroom is by updating your bedding. Choose new sheets, pillowcases, and a duvet cover that reflects the season or your style.
If you don’t really know what your style is, try these bedroom ideas:
Modern
- Smooth Satin: Opt for satin sheets and pillowcases for a sleek, glossy look that exudes modern elegance.
- Crisp Cotton: High-thread-count cotton sheets offer a smooth and luxurious feel that complements modern interiors.
- Quilted Bedding: Use a quilted duvet or comforter to add a subtle texture without overpowering the clean lines of a modern bedroom.
- Metallic Accents: Incorporate bedding with metallic threads or accents to enhance the modern, sophisticated vibe.
Contemporary Bedroom
- Velvet: Choose velvet for throw pillows, a bedspread, or an upholstered headboard to introduce a touch of luxury.
- Woven Cotton: Opt for woven cotton blankets and throws to add a refined, yet comfortable texture.
- Matelassé: This fabric, with its quilted, textured pattern, is perfect for bedspreads or coverlets in a contemporary setting.
- Knitted Throws: Add knitted throws or blankets for a soft, inviting texture that complements contemporary decor.
Industrial Bedroom
- Rough Linen: Linen bedding adds a natural, slightly rough texture that fits well with the industrial aesthetic.
- Wool Blankets: Use thick, woolen blankets or throws to add warmth and a rugged feel to the bedroom.
- Canvas: Incorporate canvas pillows or bed skirts to enhance the utilitarian look typical of industrial design.
- Leather Accents: Leather pillow covers or throws can add a sleek yet rugged touch to the bedding ensemble.
Scandinavian Bedroom
- Soft Flannel: Flannel sheets and pillowcases provide warmth and a cozy texture ideal for a Scandinavian bedroom.
- Sheepskin Throws: Drape sheepskin throws over the bed to add a plush, inviting texture.
- Cotton-Linen Blend: Use cotton-linen blend sheets and duvet covers for a light, breathable, and natural feel.
- Wool Blankets: Opt for wool blankets or throws in neutral tones to add a layer of cozy texture.
Bohemian Bedroom
- Boho Quilts: Choose vibrant, patterned quilts with various textures to create a rich, eclectic look.
- Macramé Pillows: Use macramé pillow covers for added texture and a handmade touch.
- Woven Blankets: Incorporate woven blankets with fringe or tassel details to enhance the bohemian vibe.
- Patchwork Bedding: Patchwork duvet covers or bedspreads can add a colorful, textured element to the boho style.
Traditional Bedroom
- Silk Sheets: Opt for silk sheets and pillowcases for a luxurious, smooth texture that enhances a traditional bedroom.
- Damask or Brocade: Use damask or brocade fabrics for duvet covers and shams to introduce intricate patterns and rich textures.
- Quilted Bedspreads: Traditional quilted bedspreads add a timeless texture and can feature classic patterns.
- Plush Throws: Add plush, velvety throws or blankets to create a warm and inviting traditional look.
4. Add Throw Pillows and Blankets
Incorporate throw pillows and blankets to add layers of texture and color to your bed, making sure you match your bedding and keep to a scheme, like above.
This is a cost-effective way to switch up the look and feel of your bedroom. Mix and match patterns and materials to create a cozy, inviting space.
5. Introduce a Rug
A new rug can anchor your bedroom’s design and add warmth underfoot. Choose a rug that complements your color scheme and fits well with your furniture layout.
A rug can also help define different areas within the room. Place a large area rug under your bed, runners along the side of the bed, or a rug under a desk.
6. Paint an Accent Wall
Painting an accent wall is a great way to add color and character to your bedroom without committing to a full room makeover. Choose a wall that draws the eye as you enter the room and pick a color that complements your existing décor.
The best place to create an accent wall is behind the bed. If you want to go for something dramatic, paint it a dark blue or green and choose a wooden headboard to add contrast.
7. Paint Your Trim and Windows
Another quick way to refresh a bedroom on a budget is to paint your trim and windows. If your bedroom is neutral, paint your trim in a darker shade. Or, go all in and paint your trim and window frames a contrasting color to the rest of the room.
8. Update Your Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood in your bedroom. Consider replacing old fixtures with modern ones or adding new sources of light, such as floor lamps, table lamps, or wall sconces.
Use a mix of lighting types to create a well-lit, functional, and cozy space.
9. Incorporate Greenery
Adding plants to your bedroom can bring life and freshness to the space and is a quick way to implement a bedroom refresh.
It doesn’t have to be expensive either, ask friends and family for cuttings, head to a local thrift store that often sells plants, or keep an eye out for people selling cuttings in their garden.
Choose low-maintenance indoor plants like snake plants, pothos, or succulents. Place them on a windowsill, bedside table, or in a corner to create a natural focal point.
9. Change Window Treatments
Updating your window treatments can dramatically change the look of your bedroom. Consider swapping out heavy drapes for lighter, airier curtains in the summer, or vice versa in the winter.
Just changing the color of your curtains or blinds can instantly refresh a bedroom. Choose colors and patterns that enhance your room’s overall design.
10. Update Hardware and Fixtures
Small details like drawer pulls, door handles, and light switch covers can make a big difference. Update these fixtures with modern, stylish options to give your bedroom a polished look.
We recently changed the white light switches in our bedroom with brass fixtures and it instantly made our bedroom feel more luxurious. This is a quick and affordable way to refresh a bedroom.
11. Create a Reading Nook
If space allows, create a cozy reading nook in your bedroom. All you need is a comfortable chair, a small side table, and good lighting.
You don’t need to go out and buy a new chair, shop your home and see if there is a spare dining chair or stool that you could use and add comfortable cushions. This little retreat can be perfect for unwinding with a book before bed.
12. Install Floating Shelves
As I mentioned before, bedroom storage is crucial. Floating shelves are a great way to add storage and display space without taking up floor area.
Use them to showcase books, plants, or decorative items. If you are creating a little reading nook, add a little bookshelf (under the window to save space) which will help create a dedicated area. Shelves can also be placed above bedside tables and dressers to stop them from becoming too cluttered.
13. Revamp Your Headboard
If your headboard is looking outdated, consider revamping it. You can reupholster it with a new fabric, paint it, or even create a DIY headboard with materials like reclaimed wood or fabric panels.
If your bed doesn’t have a headboard, consider adding a decorative mural behind the bed or add slats of wood to give the illusion of a headboard. A new headboard can serve as a striking focal point and instantly refresh a bedroom.
14. Add Pattern to Create Zones
I love color blocking and adding patterns and wallpaper to help highlight an area in a room. This is a quick and easy way to refresh a bedroom.
If you have a desk, paint a vertical color-blocked pattern behind it to zone the space. You could also paint stripes, geometric shapes, or stencils on a wall to delineate a specific zone, like a reading nook or dressing area.
Use patterned wallpaper on one wall to create a focal point, such as behind the bed, which can define the sleeping area. Choose a bold pattern for impact or a subtle one for a more understated effect.
15. Change Your Wardrobe Doors
One of the first things we did when we moved into our current house, was to update our wardrobe doors in our bedroom. We have a built-in closet, which didn’t need ripping out but was outdated.
We removed the doors, placed new ones with paneling, and put wallpaper in between the paneling to refresh and instantly update the look.
There are lots of bedroom ideas to choose from including;
- Paint the wardrobe doors in a bold color that contrasts or complements your bedroom decor.
- Replace existing doors with full-length mirrored doors to make the room appear larger and brighter.
- Install sliding barn doors for a rustic, farmhouse-style look. These can be made from reclaimed wood or painted to match your decor.
- Replace plain doors with Shaker-style paneled doors for a timeless, classic look.
- Incorporate rattan or cane inserts for a bohemian or tropical vibe.
- Remove the doors entirely and replace them with open shelving for a more accessible and airy feel.
16. Paint Your Bedroom Furniture
Painting bedroom furniture is an excellent way to give your space a fresh, updated look without the expense of buying new pieces.
Solid Color Refresh
- Bold Colors: Choose a bold color like navy blue, emerald green, or deep red to make a statement piece out of a dresser or nightstand.
- Neutral Tones: Opt for neutral shades like white, gray, or beige for a classic and versatile look that can easily match any decor.
- Pastels: Soft pastel colors like mint green, blush pink, or light blue can create a calming and serene bedroom atmosphere.
Patterned Painting
- Stripes: Paint vertical or horizontal stripes on your furniture for a fun, dynamic look. Use painter’s tape to achieve clean, crisp lines.
- Geometric Patterns: Create geometric designs like triangles, hexagons, or chevrons using stencils or painter’s tape. This works well on tabletops, drawer fronts, or cabinet doors.
- Stenciling: Use stencils to add intricate patterns or motifs. This can be particularly effective on larger surfaces like headboards or dresser tops.
17. Shop Your Home
If you don’t want to spend any money on this bedroom refresh, how about swapping soft furnishings around your house? You could change your curtains from the living room to the bedroom, use cushions that are elsewhere in the house, or table lamps as bedside table lighting.
You can also bring in furniture from other rooms. A console table from the hallway can serve as a vanity, or an armchair from the living room can create a cozy reading nook.
A bedroom refresh doesn’t have to be a daunting or expensive task. With these 17 ideas, you can make small, impactful changes that breathe new life into your space. Whether it’s through decluttering, updating your bedding, or adding bedroom storage, these quick fixes can transform your bedroom into a sanctuary you’ll love spending time in.
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I also use Artificial Intelligence Image generators to create some of my images. These are to show you examples of my ideas and inspiration when I cannot produce the real images myself.