When setting up the perfect bedroom, a minimalist bedroom design may be your goal. Minimalist bedroom design is a popular style because it is oftentimes relaxing, aesthetically balanced, and has a modern simplicity to it.
So how can you achieve this look? This guide will give you insider tips on the 5 key factors you must-have for the perfect minimalist bedroom. Let’s get started.
In this article
Minimalism Defined | Your Space | Declutter | Storage | Walls | Bed
What is minimalism?
First off, what exactly is minimalism? The answer oftentimes depends on who you ask. To some, the term “minimalism” implies the absence of things or possessions. And in a sense that is true.
Minimalism despises visual clutter or “stuff” sitting around a room. But a stark room is not necessarily the goal of minimalism design.
Instead, I like to say that minimalism is the intentional inclusion of only the most important things.
Clearing out the visual clutter allows for your favorite design accents to have a larger impact on the overall space.
1. Assess The Space
In the design world, there’s a phrase that says “form follows function“.
Throughout history across cultures and various styles, this idea has remained true globally. The form (or look) of something is a direct reflection of the function it is designed to serve.
Think of coffee mugs. A mug is exactly what it needs to be to achieve the function it was designed for and nothing more. It has a cup to retain the hot coffee and a handle so you can easily hold it.
You can apply this same principle to your minimalist bedroom design.
Look around your space. What functions do you see? Do you read in your bedroom? Watch TV? Charge devices? Try on clothes?
Does your bedroom’s form match the functions that you mostly do in your room? If the answer is no, think of design elements you could change or add that would better reflect the function of your bedroom.
2. De-Clutter Belongings
Of the things that you have in your room are all of them necessary? Ask yourself these two questions when trying to declutter your room.
- Does it serve a purpose or fuction?
- Does it bring you joy?
That’s it. It’s a short list. Some items serve an important function, like your bed, dresser, lamps, end tables, etc. They need to stay in order to be a functioning bedroom.
Other items are there just because they bring you joy. This may include items like pictures, that colorful blanket for your last vacation, or a favorite candle. These items can stay too.
If after doing this task you are still overwhelmed by clutter in your bedroom, ask yourself the final question.
Does it belong in the bedroom?
If the answer is no, look for other places where items can be relocated that may make more sense and help you achieve that minimalism you’re looking for. This may include things like extra shoes, jackets, ironing board, bulky furniture that is not being used, etc.
3. Remember Storage
Even after de-cluttering, there will still be a list of items that you need in your bedroom. To maximize the design of a minimalist bedroom, consider storage solutions for the items you absolutely have to have.
Books on the nightstand, your glasses, clothing, bags, and other accessories are all common to see in most bedroom spaces.
But when these items don’t have a proper storage area, they can provide unnecessary visual clutter.
Stick with the necessities and make sure those necessities have a place to store when not in use.
Here’s a quick list of some top-rated minimalist storage solutions for bedrooms.
- 3-Drawer Nightstand with Tapered Legs
- Round End Table with Hidden Storage
- Dresser with Wood Accent and Tapered Legs
- Large Dresser with Black Woodgrain
4. Dress the Walls
The walls play a big role in all designs, but they are especially important in minimalist bedroom design. Wall color, material, or fabric choices can set the tone for an entire bedroom.
A bedroom that lacks clutter or excess furniture can still have character and bold design elements when utilizing the flat space of a wall.
How do you decide what to do on the walls? My advice here would be to “begin with the end in mind”.
In all design decisions you make, think about the end result and use that mindset to make decisions that align with your end goal.
What do you want the mood in your bedroom to feel like?
- Light + Airy. For a light and airy space, go with lighter finishes on the wall. A light colored wall color (like Sherwin Williams Alabaster) or sheer drapery (like this 2-panel set) can help the room feel fresh. If you have darker floors and want to brighter it up, consider adding a light-colored area rug.
- Moody + Cozy. If you want to bring in moody vibes to your minimalist bedroom, don’t be afraid to go darker on the walls. Sherwin Williams Rainstorm is a great moody blue or try Behr Carmelized Orange for a trendy boho vibe. In addition to a warmer color, consider a wood accent wall or a large pieces of framed art.
- Bold + Eclectic. If you want an accent in your minimalist bedroom, go bold with the walls. But use color mindfully. Instead of painting the whole room a bright color, consider accenting only the headboard wall or paint an accent at the half-height mark. These are good tricks to add an accent without overpowering the space. Wall murals, wallpapers, and interesting drapes or bedding can be a great way to add that accent without taking up floor space.
5. Make the Bed
Last, but not least, let’s talk about the bed. The bed is arguably the most important part of any minimalist bedroom design. When it comes to the bed, there are 3 main points to consider.
- The Frame
- The Headboard
- The Bedding
Minimalist Bed Frames
Minimalist bed frames can be metal or wood and usually have simple lines. They serve the job of supporting the mattress and sleepers above, but don’t necessarily have extra design elements.
Check out some of our favorite types of minimalist bed frames below.
Minimalist Headboards
In addition to the bed frame, you’ll also need a headboard. When a headboard may not be important to all sleepers, it does serve an important function of protecting the wall behind the bed. Even if you like a minimalist style, most designers would suggest that a headboard be used.
For a simple look, here’s a short list of some of our favorite minimalist headboards.
Minimalist Bedding
Minimalist bedding is usually a single color or has a small pattern to it. Avoid the excessive use of non-functional pillows. While one or two pillows can help accent the bed and provide some variation in texture, adding too many pillows can also add to the visual clutter. Not to mention it means more work when it’s time to get in bed.
Check out some of our favorite minimalist bedding brands below:
Summary
So there we have it. Minimalist bedroom design doesn’t have to be complicated. Following these five steps, you can have a functional space that you’ve always dreamed of with a minimalist design.
As a recap, the five steps are listed below:
- Assess the Space: Decide what you need the room to do for you. And see how your current space is or is not working.
- Declutter Belongings: Get rid of things you don’t need so that it’s easier to access the things you do need.
- Remember Storage: Concealed storage lets you have the important items within reach without adding visual clutter.
- Dress the Walls: Use wall paint, accents, wood tones, or other materials to provide a backdrop and set the mood for your bedroom.
- Make the Bed: Choose a bed frame, headboard, and bedding that all works together to give you the minimalist bedroom you’re looking for.
