Looking to add some personality to your bedroom but not sure what to do with that blank space above your bed? You’re not alone!
The area above the bed can be tricky to style, but with the right decor, it can totally transform the vibe of your room. Whether you're into artwork, mirrors, or something a bit more creative, we’ve got plenty of ideas to help you make that space uniquely yours.
Artwork
When picking artwork to hang above your bed, aim for a piece or a set that covers 60% to 80% of your bed's width. Keep the bottom of the artwork about 6'' above the top of your headboard and make sure there is at least 18 inches between the ceiling and the top of the artwork. This creates a balanced and proportionate look.
For example, if you have a king-sized headboard that's about 80 inches wide, your wall art or the total width of a set (including spaces between pieces) should be between 48 and 64 inches. For a 62-inch-wide queen bed, the artwork including frames can take up about 37'' - 50'' of the wall above your bed.
Map
As a travel enthusiast, I love hanging a map above my bed. Seeing it every day is a great source of inspiration and motivation to plan future trips and adventures. Plus, it's super convenient because I can mark where I've been and where I want to go next using a pen on a paper map or by moving flag pins on a 3D map.
Vintage brass sculpture
Looking to add a touch of decor to your retro bedroom with its wood, aged metals, and vintage textiles? Try hanging a vintage brass sculpture above your bed. This piece has a rich, warm tone that blends seamlessly with the other vintage materials in your space.
Letters
Adding letters and words above your bed is an easy, quick, and effective way to add a personal touch to your bedroom compared to painting. There are many options, like wall decals or stickers, vinyl lettering, framed quotes or prints, and wooden or metal letters. Personally, I love using string lights shaped like letters or light-up letter signs to create a whimsical and illuminated display.
Wallpaper
This idea is perfect for homeowners looking to refresh their older homes! Wallpaper can hide imperfections like cracks and uneven surfaces, making everything look smooth and new. I absolutely love wallpaper because it's budget-friendly, quick, and effective—no need for extensive and expensive renovations!
Floating shelves
This idea is great for filling the blank space above your bed while maximizing storage in your bedroom. Since the wall space above your bed is already a focal point, keep the shelf's contents minimal and clutter-free to maintain a calm and inviting atmosphere.
Wall scones
Don't hang wall sconces too high above your nightstands, as the light might become too diffuse and not focused where you need it. This can make it hard to read books or write notes. The ideal height is about 12 inches above the nightstand, which provides good illumination and easy access from the bed.
Mirror
This is a fantastic idea for small bedrooms! Hanging a large mirror above the bed can make your space feel bigger and more open by reflecting light. For the best effect, place it near artificial lighting sources and windows to reflect both natural and artificial light.
Macrame
Want to create a bohemian bedroom or just add a touch of boho to your space? Consider using macrame, which pairs perfectly with bohemian design elements. Natural fibers like cotton, jute, and hemp align with the boho emphasis on organic and earthy elements, bringing warmth and a sense of nature into your room.
Houseplants
One of the best spots to grow houseplants in the bedroom is by the windows, where they can soak up plenty of natural light, especially if they love the sun. I really enjoy hanging trailing plants like spider plants or string of pearls from ceiling or wall brackets here. They create such a beautiful curtain effect!
Woven baskets
If you're thinking about adding a collection of woven baskets above your bed to create a stunning focal point in your bedroom, try using an odd number like three or five baskets. This little design trick helps create a sense of balance and harmony in the space.
Wreath
To make a wreath that helps you sleep better in your bedroom, pick materials that are known for their sleep-friendly properties. For instance, eucalyptus can help you relax with its soothing effect on the respiratory system. Or, you might prefer the grounding aroma of cedar, which can calm your mind and improve your sleep.
Textiles
As a renter, I absolutely love using textiles for decorating above bed! They're affordable, easy to hang, and quick to remove. Plus, I can fold them up and take them with me whenever I move to a new place. No extra weight in my baggage!
Tennis rackets
Are you thinking about decorating the space above the bed for a tennis enthusiast? Using tennis rackets as decorative items is a fantastic idea! It reflects personal interests and passions, making the bedroom feel more personalized and meaningful.
Try mounting two tennis rackets in a cross formation above the bed. This not only adds a unique touch but also creates a sense of symmetry and balance, making your bedroom feel more harmonious.
Repurposed window frame
While the original rustic look of an old window frame is beautiful, you can't just hang it above your bed as is. For safety, make sure to remove any old rusty nails. Give it a good wipe down to get rid of caked-on dirt and dust. Then, spray a few coats of shiny lacquer to protect it from moisture, dirt, and other environmental elements.
Painting mural
Creating your own mural above the bed is a fantastic way to showcase your personal style, interests, and tastes, making the space uniquely yours. If painting isn't your strong suit, don't worry! You can always use some mural art paper or hire an professional to paint a nice mural.
Chalkboard
Installing a chalkboard above your bed and keeping some colorful chalk nearby is such a fun, interactive, and creative idea! You can leave sweet messages for your partner, let your kids doodle, or even use it for studying if you're a student. So interesting!
Faux antlers
Looking for a perfect above-bed decor idea for your rustic or boho bedroom? Try decorating with a single faux antler or a set of them. These decorative pieces have a natural aesthetic, mimicking the look of real antlers, making them a great fit for these styles.
Picture ledge
Whether you just want to install a single picture ledge or a set of multiple picture ledges, make sure to keep 60 inches from the center of the grouping to the floor. This way creates an optimal viewing height and experience for most people.
