20 Cozy bedroom ideas

Now more than ever, there’s nothing like stepping away from it all and retreating to a cocoon-like bedroom for quality hibernation. Interior designer Thomas Hamel is based in the sunny climes of Sydney, but he’s no stranger to creating intimate spaces for his clients in destinations the world over, particularly spots that could benefit from a little extra warmth and softness, such as a ski home in Innsbruck, Austria, and another in Niseko, Japan. “Bedrooms are the least public rooms in the house and very personal spaces,” says Hamel. “We should work toward making them feel that way.” When it comes to adding some extra-cozy touches, it’s all about embracing the Danish concept of hygge, a word used to describe a feeling of warmth, coziness, and comfort—something the Danes, with their long dark winters, hold dear. Design-wise, hygge calls for candlelight, soothing textures, soft earth tones, and rich wood accents. So whether you’re set on overhauling your sleeping quarters or just want some low-effort, big-impact pointers to create a homey refuge, consider these cozy bedroom ideas to get you started.

1. Add Touches of Wood

Whether your bedroom is tiny or oversize, incorporating wood on the walls is the perfect way to add a sense of warmth. “It can be as simple as a board cladding or as elaborate as limed oak paneling,” says Hamel. “When true wood is not possible, there are brilliant wallpapers that simulate wood cladding.” Choosing wood furnishings and accents can also help create that feeling of coziness in spaces where you can’t add paneling or wallpaper.

2. Create Ambiance with Lighting

A cozy bedroom needs light, but not just any kind of light. “There is nothing worse than a harsh ceiling downlight shining on you while you’re in bed,” says Hamel. Turn off the overhead fixture after dark and concentrate on low light. The key to an intimate mood is incorporating various sources of lighting, including soft bedside lamps and strategically mounted ceiling lights for a touch of drama. But of course, the best light source of them all will forever be natural light. See below for what our dream bedroom would be.

3. Choose a Dramatic Bed

For the ultimate cozy feeling, anchor the room with a four-poster bed. If you’re not a fan of curtains or frills, opt for a streamlined version with simple posts and no crossbeams or fabric. “I find four-posters enclose and emphasize the bed in a larger bedroom, and at the same time make a smaller bedroom have some scale and drama,” says Hamel. “Always go for a large scale—it should dominate your room.”

4. Go for Calming Colors and Natural Materials

When it comes to textures and colors, think soothing and calm rather than bright pops of color. “Bold graphic patterns do not rest well in bedrooms,” says Hamel. “I would rather focus on smaller intimate patterns that work together while introducing rich, sensuous textures.” Quilted throw pillows, faux-fur throws, and comfy knits in neutral tones are all great starting points. Layer in these soft elements throughout the space for a welcoming feel.

5. Add Area Rugs

“When a person first touches the floor after getting out of bed, it should be onto a soft surface,” says Hamel. That doesn’t mean you need to lay down carpet to create a cozy mood. A plush area rug gives practical warmth while adding an extra oomph of texture. Try small sheepskin or shag rugs on the sides of the bed or layer multiple floor coverings to add softness.

6. Cover the Windows

Bare, cold windows are one of the biggest ways to prevent a bedroom from feeling snug and comfortable. When going for cozy, don’t skimp on window treatments. Another tip to keep in mind if you have large windows? “Don’t include curtains in a strong pattern. When drawn, they shouldn’t dominate or take away from the balance of the rest of the room.”

7. Shut Out Tech

You can’t truly unplug if you’re attached to your phone or iPad. Try to make your bedroom a low- or no-tech zone, adding books and natural elements such as fresh flowers or plants instead of a television or a phone dock. Make this a space to truly relax. Trust us, the news will still be there when you wake up.

8. Remember That Minimal Doesn’t Mean Boring

Fill the space with a few coveted pieces that speak for themselves. Cue this dreamy scalloped bed frame in Laura Harrier’s pink L.A. pad. By adding stand-alone pieces to your room, like an interesting nightstand or a not-so-typical light fixture, you can bring in personality and charm without steering away from an understated vibe.

9. Opt for an Unexpected Bed Frame

While we’re chatting about furniture that does all of the talking, don’t be afraid to purchase a playful bed frame. Isn’t the goal to stay in bed all day anyway? Might as well make it a fun one.

10. Go Dark

Darker hues will add a dramatic coziness. Paint your walls a relaxing and deep cool tone to bring in another element of pure comfort.

11. Blankets Galore

We’ve never heard of too many blankets...layer throws on your bed to bring eye-catching dimension (and the perfect nap location). The bed itself should be a sanctuary, so dress it with velvety linens, plenty of pillows, and a luxe duvet or sumptuous blanket.

12. Pillows, Pillows, and More Pillows

There is nothing in this world more inviting than a plush bed chock-full of pillows. A bed like this is basically begging you to jump right in. We suggest going after cozier pillows that are as cute as they are comfortable. While you definitely do not need to justify the number of pillows on your bed, at least this way they’ll be more than just decorative.

13. Create a Nook

Who said you have to be a kid to have a secret hiding place? No one. Close yourself off from the world by creating a bed nook ideal for rainy days.

14. Add Some Color With Florals

Remember, we’re not trying to overwhelm ourselves with patterns and loud accents. Flowers are the perfect way to breathe some life into a neutral space and add a touch of color that is anything but overpowering.

15. Embrace Your Wallpaper

Having fun wallpaper will add dimension and excitement into an otherwise dull space. Keep the rest of your spot neutral and introduce accents of wood and wicker to dilute the intensity of any extra decorative noise.

16. Add a Personal Touch

Highlight some of your favorite trinkets and memories to make your space more unique. Maybe showcase some vases from your travels or keep it simple with a family photo.

Source: Architectural Digest