Bedroom Design Mistakes

1. Using Too-Large Furniture- When your furniture is too large for your bedroom, it makes the space feel small and cramped. Avoid this by choosing furniture that allows for plenty of open space in the room, even if it’s on the smaller side. For example, a daybed, Murphy bed, bunk beds, or a twin bed are all space-saving bed options that can make the room feel larger. If you need space for two people to sleep, consider a full or queen-sized bed rather than a king. Choose nightstands or bedside tables that are smaller but can still hold a lamp and daily essentials like a phone, a glass of water, and your favorite lip balm. If a bulky dresser is too much for your space, consider a smaller chest of drawers or putting a dresser in the closet instead.
2. Not Covering the Windows - Not only are window coverings helpful for privacy, but blackout curtains or, really, any curtains, can help keep out the light so you and your guests can sleep better and longer. If your space doesn’t allow curtains, blinds or roll-up shades are good alternatives to achieve a similar outcome.
3. Leaving the Bed Undone - Making your own bed every morning should be on your to-do list for a more productive day but even if it’s not, you can still make the beds in your home look and feel luxurious with just a few easy steps and upgrades, like choosing high-quality bedding and throw pillows.
4. Keeping the TV in Plain Sight - While TV usage in the bedroom can sometimes be controversial, we think it’s totally okay to be able to watch your favorite shows or movies in your relaxation space, but consider giving it a “home” so it doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb amidst a comfort haven. Hide it in a cabinet, use a picture frame TV to display artwork when the television isn’t in use, install sliding barn doors for it, create a gallery wall around it, or invest in a ceiling-mounted projector instead of a TV. There are lots of ways to keep your TV from becoming an eyesore in an otherwise beautiful space.
5. Overlooking a Good Rug - A properly sized rug can add color, texture, and design flare to your space. Whether it’s going underneath your bed or on the floor next to it, the key here is to make sure it’s the right size. Homeandgardens.com recommends making sure “the rug leaves some floor space visible around the perimeter of the room to create a balanced and open feel.” Using a rug that is too large or too small can make it feel like an afterthought instead of a cohesive design element.
6. Poor Bed Positioning - According to feng shui bedroom rules, your bedroom’s layout matters. Placing your bed as far from the entrance as possible will bring feelings of security while you sleep. Making sure the bed is accessible from both sides is also key, so pulling it away from walls and corners will help balance the energy of the room and make it easy to get in and out of.
7. Forgetting to Clean Up - Keeping your space as tidy as possible is important for so many reasons. From being able to sleep more soundly and feeling refreshed in the morning to improving your bedroom’s interior design, making sure clutter is out of your bedroom is important. Ensure you have ample storage solutions (baskets, bins, boxes, etc.) to hold everything and store it in your closet or in another room so it’s out of your bedroom’s sightlines.
8. Using Bold Paint Colors - There’s a reason why you don’t see bolder colors in bedrooms – these bright, warm colors like red, orange, and yellow are most often associated with anxiety, energy, and arguments, says goodhousekeeping.com – things we don’t want in our sleeping space. If your bedroom uses these colors, consider repainting it to a softer shade of blue or green, both of which promote serenity.
9. Neglecting Power Cords - We get it. Phone chargers, light cords, alarm clock plugs, and other devices mean lots of power cords; however, exposed wires like these can detract from a calming atmosphere. Find an affordable cord management solution that works for your space to tidy up the cables and enhance the room’s aesthetic.

Your bedroom is one of the most important spaces in your home - it’s where you start and end each day. By being mindful of these common design mistakes, you can transform your bedroom into a space that feels more open, balanced, and serene. Whether it’s something as simple as making the bed or rethinking your furniture layout, small adjustments can have a big impact. Thoughtful design isn’t just about aesthetics - it’s about creating a space that supports your well-being.