That boring bedroom putting you to sleep. It’s a sign to bring change!
It’s natural for the bedroom to come as an afterthought, especially when there are contenders like the living room. But, being a room you spend so much time in (even if it’s spent sleeping), your bedroom deserves better.
And these top 19 tips for a bedroom refresh will show you how! 🤍
Bring Color
If you keep your room’s walls and furniture neutral, adding color whenever and wherever you wish is actually pretty easy. Pick one or two colors you like, and then repeat them in artwork, bedding, decorative accents, etc. How about trying a color that screams “look at me!” (like the emerald green plush velvet cushion). If you’re feeling really wild, add some funky throw pillows—maybe even one shaped like a taco, because why not?
Try New Linens
Nothing feels fresher in a bedroom than new bedding! If you don’t have much storage space for bulky comforters and quilts—consider a duvet. This is a quick bedroom update. For a nautical theme, shiplap walls will work well with navy blue bedding and warm red accents. For a more feminine vibe, the Mira Reversible Floral Sateen Bedding has a neutral base with beautiful peachy flowers.
Try a Mini Furniture Flip
Sometimes, reimagining what you’ve already got is it! That basic nightstand you have—slap on a fresh coat of paint or some funky peel-and-stick wallpaper. Swap the hardware of the dresser for something unexpected, like antique brass pulls. And there you’ll have a brand-new vibe with little effort 😁
Create a “Surprise Zone”
Some things must be done for the inner child in us. Create something fun—and unexpected—in one corner. Maybe it’s a tiny disco ball hanging from the ceiling; for travel lovers, it can be a wall of polaroids; and for sweet lovers, a candy stash? (hey, no judgement). It’s your space, so it should be unapologetically you.
Lay Down a Rug (Even if You Have a Carpet)
Layering rugs is a pro move in refreshing your bedroom—even if you have a carpet. For example, a Persian rug over a plain carpet. Or a fluffy sheepskin over wooden flooring. It’s quite like dressing your floors in a three-piece suit. Fancy.
Spruce Up the Ceiling
This is one bedroom update that can instantly create coziness in your bedroom. Paint your ceiling the same color as your walls—even if it’s navy blue. Your room will feel smaller and more intimate. And there will be no visual break between the ceiling and walls. You can also create a graphic statement with patterned wallpaper.
Add Scent
Product: Santorini Scented Candle
Price: $55
Shop: Karen Kane
If your room smells like last night’s takeout—it’s about time you intervene. A chic candle, like the Santorini candle above with notes of amber and sandalwood, will make your room smell heavenly. You can also go for a diffuser or some linen spray. Lavender scents especially work well in the bedroom as they help you relax. Citrusy scents are good for a morning pick-me-up.
Mix and Match
Mixing geometric shapes can add interest to a primary bedroom. Consider a sunburst mirror that breaks through a chevron pattern. Complement this with bright red triangles for the decorative pillows, adding an unexpected pop to the color scheme.
Shake Up the Layout
If you’re feeling stuck—move things around. You can try angling your bed (won’t cost a dime). Or perhaps swap the position of your dresser. Sometimes, a new layout can make your bedroom feel as good as new. This is also an opportunity to arrange your bedroom furniture according to feng shui; this can promote the flow of good “chi” (energy) and bring good luck 😉
Switch Up the Palette for Something Trendy
If painting the walls is a project you’re willing to take at the moment, you’re in luck! Many paint brands recently announced their colors of the year for 2025, and they’re great for you to take inspiration:
Pantone: Mocha Mousse
Benjamin Moore: Cinnamon Slate
Behr: Rumors
Valspar: Encore
Dunn-Edwards: Caramelized
Most of these are interesting and warm neutrals. And Rumors is SO hot!
Light It Up—Literally
Overhead lights are just so... basic. Swap them out for statement lamps and fairy lights. Even a neon sign with a cheeky phrase can do. Layered lighting creates a cozy vibe—and makes your room feel like a curated boutique hotel. Well, minus the questionable mini-bar prices.
Rearrange Your Accessories
You don’t need to go to the store for accessories. Shop your home instead. You probably already have some stylish pieces that will look new in the bedroom. For example, take table lamps from another bedroom. Or pick up a vase from the living room and a picture frame from your gallery wall, and find them a new home in your bedroom. You can also go for a bigger statement—by switching out bedside tables or even an area rug.
Buy Preloved Furniture
If you’re in need of new furniture—but don’t have quite the budget—you’ll be surprised at all the good finds at the thrift store. Whether you need a whole bed set or just a new statement piece, shopping second-hand is always a good idea. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are two places to consider.
Arrange a Seat
If your primary bedroom doesn’t have room for a separate seating area…No problem. Arrange a bench (or loveseat) at the end of your bed. This will be more than just a place to perch when wearing those shoes; a seat at the end of the bed gives you flexibility in design. Also, be sure to add some decorative pillows.
Create a Dreamy Scene
If you’re decorating a kid’s bedroom—consider a sweet spot where they can retreat. Use an alcove seat in their bedroom and deck it with colorful pillows and a throw. Bonus points if you add a sheer canopy hanging from the ceiling. You can also display some of their favorite stuffed toys, and it’ll become one of their go-to spots!
Upgrade the Headboard
To make an immediate impact, create a dramatic headboard. You can find headboards at almost every price point. But you can consider customizing your existing headboard—or using a salvaged piece—for a low-cost option.
Add Some Architectural Detail
You can use trim, molding, and wainscoting individually—or all combined together. Their effect can be casual or formal; traditional or modern; rustic or defined, depending on the style of your home. But in every case, these elements can add charm and texture.
Double Textiles as Decor
Textiles don’t just belong to your bed. You can also use them on the wall! There are interesting tapestries that have lots of patterns—but it’s really about finding your favorite fabric and then hanging it on a rod. That’s an inexpensive way to get a really big look!
Redo Your Closet Doors
Closet doors take a big chunk of visual estate in many bedrooms. So, why not replace those bulky, utilitarian sliding doors with something more stunning? Like chic French doors. Mirrored panels can also give the room more visual space—while hiding closet clutter.