Whether you’re looking to refresh your bedroom with simple DIY upgrades or planning a major renovation, this guide will help you navigate the process. From budget-friendly updates to luxurious master suite transformations, we’ll cover everything you need to know to create the bedroom of your dreams.
Bedroom Refresh or Remodel?
When considering a bedroom makeover, it’s essential to determine whether a simple refresh or a full remodel is necessary.
A refresh typically involves cosmetic changes like painting, new furnishings, or minor decor updates. This approach is ideal for rooms that just need a facelift or when adapting spaces for new purposes, such as creating a guest room or transitioning a nursery to a toddler’s room.
On the other hand, a full remodel is more appropriate for significant transformations, such as converting a basic space into a luxurious master suite. This often requires professional help and can cost five figures or more.
Consider your goals, budget, and the current state of your bedroom to decide which approach is best for you. Careful evaluation can save you both time and money by ensuring that your efforts align with your needs.
How to Refresh Your Bedroom on a Budget
A few simple tweaks can give your bedroom a whole new look and feel—without the expense of a major renovation. Here are some easy and affordable ideas to get you started.
Get Creative With Color
One of the most cost-effective ways to transform your bedroom is with a fresh coat of paint. Cool, pale hues have long been popular for creating a serene atmosphere, but don’t be afraid to experiment with bolder colors. Here are some creative ideas to consider:
- Paint the ceiling a contrasting color for a dramatic effect.
- Use stencils to create an eye-catching accent wall.
- Apply a bright color to a single piece of furniture for a pop of interest.
- Try an ombre effect on one wall for a soft, dreamy look.
- Incorporate two-tone walls to add depth and dimension to the space.
Remember that color can significantly impact the feel of a space. Lighter colors make a room seem larger and more open, while darker hues can create a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Don’t underestimate the power of small details like painted trim or colorful accents, which can also play a key role in the overall look.
Add an Accent Wall
Creating a focal point behind the bed can add visual interest and personality to your bedroom. Instead of a traditional headboard, consider these alternatives:
- Install peel-and-stick reclaimed wood boards for a rustic touch.
- Apply faux paneling to create architectural interest.
- Use a large piece of artwork or a gallery wall as a statement piece.
- Hang a tapestry or macramé wall hanging for texture and warmth.
- Create a feature wall with bold wallpaper or a hand-painted mural.
These accent ideas can be easily changed or updated in the future, allowing you to refresh your bedroom’s look without a major overhaul. Swapping out accents is an affordable way to keep your bedroom looking fresh as trends evolve or your personal taste shifts.
Save Space With a Statement Barn Door
Barn doors are not only trendy but also functional, especially in smaller bedrooms or en-suite bathrooms. They save valuable floor space and add a stylish architectural element to your room. When choosing a barn door, consider one made from reclaimed wood for a rustic, farmhouse feel. You could also go with sleek metal for a modern, industrial look, or choose a door with glass panels to allow light flow between spaces.
You can paint the door to either match or contrast with your wall color, or go with a mirrored surface to create the illusion of more space.
To save money, check out salvage yards for vintage doors with character. With some DIY skills, you can transform an old door into a stunning focal point for your bedroom. If you’re handy, you can install the barn door hardware yourself, making this an even more cost-effective project.
Cool It Down
A ceiling fan can be both functional and stylish in a bedroom. While it doesn’t actually lower the room temperature, it can make the space feel about four degrees cooler and help keep mosquitoes at bay. In winter, reverse the fan’s rotation to push warm air downward, improving energy efficiency.
As you shop for a ceiling fan, look for an Energy Star-labeled fan for optimal efficiency. Consider the room’s size when selecting the fan blade span, and select a style that complements your bedroom’s decor.
Installing a ceiling fan can be a DIY project if you’re replacing an existing light fixture, but always consult a professional if you’re unsure about electrical work. Don’t overlook the aesthetic aspect, as a well-chosen fan can be an attractive centerpiece.
Invest in Rest
Investing in a high-quality mattress and bed frame may not change much about how your room looks, but a good night’s sleep can make a huge difference in how you feel. Today’s adjustable beds offer a range of features to enhance your comfort and sleep quality. Here are a few good reasons to splurge:
- Customizable positions for reading, watching TV, or sleeping.
- Massage functions for relaxation and pain relief.
- Built-in USB ports for convenient device charging.
- Silent alarms that wake you gently without disturbing your partner.
- Temperature regulation features for optimal sleep comfort.
While high-tech beds can be pricey, better sleep can significantly improve your overall well-being. Research different brands and models to find the best fit for your needs and budget. Don’t underestimate the value of a good night’s sleep, which can positively impact your health and productivity.
How to Plan a Major Bedroom Remodel
If you’re looking for a bigger change, a full remodel could be just what you need. However, it’s important to go in with a clear understanding of the process and potential costs. To help you plan the bedroom remodel of your dreams, we rounded up some design inspiration and factors to consider.
Work Out a Budget
Start by considering the potential return on investment. As a general guideline, aim to spend no more than 10-15% of your home’s total value on a master bedroom renovation.
Consider these factors when budgeting for your remodel:
- Scope: Major structural changes or electrical upgrades will naturally be more expensive than cosmetic updates like painting or new flooring.
- Materials: Higher-end materials and finishes like hardwood flooring, marble countertops, and designer fixtures can significantly increase your budget.
- Labor: The cost of hiring professionals like contractors, electricians, and plumbers can vary significantly depending on your location and their level of expertise.
- Extras: Consider the cost of adding features like a walk-in closet, built-in storage, or a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
Remember to set aside a contingency fund of about 10-20% of your total budget for unexpected expenses that may arise during the renovation process. Careful planning and a realistic budget can help you achieve a renovation that adds value over time.
Prepare for Sleepless Nights
Embarking on a major bedroom renovation can be disruptive to your daily life. Before starting the project, make sure you have a comfortable alternative sleeping arrangement. This could be a guest room, a spare bedroom, or even a temporary setup in another part of your home.
A well-organized temporary setup can also make the process smoother. Consider these tips to minimize disruption during the renovation:
- Protect your belongings. Pack up and store your belongings to protect them from dust and damage.
- Keep clothes accessible. Create a temporary closet space in another room for easy access to clothes.
- Stay updated. Communicate with your contractor about the project timeline and any potential delays.
- Expect disruptions. Be prepared for some noise and dust, even if you’re not sleeping in the renovation zone.
Remember that the temporary inconvenience will be worth it when your dream bedroom is complete.
Create a Quiet Zone
If noise is a concern in your bedroom, consider incorporating sound-dampening features during your renovation. Stone wool insulation in interior walls and ceiling partitions can significantly reduce noise transmission between rooms. Other noise-reducing upgrades include the following:
- Double-pane windows
- Solid-core doors
- Weatherstripping around doors and windows
- Rugs, curtains, and other soft surfaces
- White noise machines
These measures can help create a peaceful sleep environment, especially if your bedroom is located near high-traffic areas of your home or in a noisy neighborhood. Achieving tranquility can greatly improve the quality of your rest.
Lighten Up (or Dim Down)
A well-designed lighting system can dramatically enhance your bedroom’s functionality and ambiance. Before the drywall goes back up, ask your electrician to install a multi-zone lighting system that allows you to control different light sources independently. This can include overhead or ambient lighting, task lighting for reading or other activities, and accent lighting to highlight artwork or architectural features.
Consider investing in a smart lighting system that can be controlled via smartphone or voice commands. Alternatively, use smart bulbs or smart plugs to create different lighting scenes without rewiring your entire room.
Think Outside the Sconce
While traditional bedside sconces are a classic choice, other lighting options can add style and functionality to your bedroom. Some trendy alternatives include adjustable wall-mounted reading lamps, minimalist track lighting, or pendant lights hung on either side of the bed.
When selecting bedroom lighting, consider both the aesthetic appeal and the practical light output needed for various activities. For instance, recessed lighting creates a clean, streamlined appearance, while statement floor lamps for added visual interest. Both options can check the box for ambient or task-specific lighting, but they bring a different feel to the room.
Get Organized
Efficient storage solutions are essential for maintaining a clutter-free, relaxing bedroom environment. Instead of relying solely on under-bed storage, consider incorporating built-in storage options, such as a wall of closets with varying compartment sizes or built-in window seats with hidden storage. You can design custom shelving units to flank the bed or install overhead storage cabinets above the bed.
While custom storage solutions can be expensive, you can achieve a similar look by combining stock cabinets and shelving units creatively. This approach can provide ample storage while creating a cohesive, built-in appearance. For a less permanent solution, replace your existing furniture with multi-functional pieces that have integrated storage.
Keep Cool
For bedrooms without central air conditioning, a ductless mini-split system can provide efficient cooling without the noise of a window unit. These systems consist of a wall-mounted indoor unit paired with an outdoor compressor.
While the initial cost of a ductless system may be higher than a window unit, the long-term energy savings and improved comfort can make it a worthwhile investment. Ductless systems are easy to install with minimal structural changes. They’re also energy efficient and quiet—especially compared to window units—and can provide both heating and cooling. These systems are particularly useful in older homes where installing ducts may be challenging.
Add Architectural Interest
Crown molding is an excellent way to add character and sophistication to your bedroom. This decorative element creates a beautiful transition between walls and ceiling, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the space. Here’s what to consider when choosing crown molding:
- Material: Wood offers a classic, timeless appeal, while polyurethane is a budget-friendly and moisture-resistant option. Plaster crown molding provides intricate detailing and a high-end feel.
- Ceiling height: Larger profiles can add drama and grandeur to rooms with high ceilings, while smaller profiles are better suited for rooms with lower ceilings.
- Architectural style: The style of your crown molding should harmonize with the overall aesthetic of your home. Traditional homes often feature ornate profiles, while modern homes favor clean lines and minimalist designs.
- Finish: Painted crown molding offers versatility and can be easily matched to your wall color, while stained molding showcases the natural beauty of the wood grain.
For DIY enthusiasts, there are now easy-to-install crown molding options that can be applied with joint compound, making this upgrade more accessible for homeowners. This can provide a high-end look without the high price.
Create Cottage Charm
Wooden wall treatments can be a great way to give your bedroom a dose of casual coziness. Choose beadboard for a beachy vibe, square-edged nickel-gap shiplap (shown here) to add cottage character, or vertical board-and-batten for farmhouse style. Install it as an accent wall, a waist-high wainscot, or to cap the ceiling.
Branch Out—Or Up
If your current bedroom feels cramped or lacks desired features, consider expanding the space. Here are a few options to consider:
- Dormers: Adding a dormer window can significantly increase headroom and natural light in your bedroom, creating a more spacious and airy feel.
- Bump-outs: Bumping out a wall into an adjacent room or unused area can provide extra square footage for a sitting area or a larger closet.
- Attic conversion: A large attic space can be converted into a luxurious master suite, complete with a sleeping area, bathroom, and sitting room.
- Two-story addition: For a truly grand bedroom retreat, consider a two-story addition with enough space for a sleeping area, bathroom, walk-in closet, and a cozy sitting nook.
- Ensuite bathroom: Adding an en-suite bathroom creates a private and luxurious retreat within your bedroom for convenience and comfort.
- Walk-in closet: Incorporating a spacious walk-in closet provides ample storage for your wardrobe and accessories, helping to keep your bedroom organized and clutter-free.
While these expansions can be costly, they can also increase your home’s value and improve your quality of life. Always consult with a professional architect or contractor to ensure your expansion plans are structurally sound and comply with local building codes. This kind of project is an investment in both your home’s worth and your future enjoyment.
Our Conclusion
Redoing a bedroom can range from simple cosmetic updates to major renovations, depending on your needs and budget. Whether you’re refreshing with a new coat of paint or embarking on a full remodel, careful planning and thoughtful design choices can transform your bedroom into a personal sanctuary. Remember to consider both aesthetics and functionality, and don’t be afraid to invest in quality elements that contribute to better sleep and relaxation.
