How to Pick the Right Bedroom Pieces

In theory, decorating a bedroom should be as easy as can be. Everyone knows the players: the bed, the dresser, the nightstands. But when it comes to actually designing a dreamy suite—the kind that truly sets you up for a serene slumber—choosing the right pieces can be a little more difficult than it seems. If you’re feeling perplexed by how to pick the right pieces, we’ve compiled a cheat sheet filled with helpful tricks and tips. From comforts to consider when choosing a bed to the dresser details that matter, here’s how to furnish a truly brilliant bedroom!

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An Ode To Working in Reverse

The bed—it’s the centerpiece around which every room orbits. And while it’s the first piece most people select for a room; don’t be adverse to working in reverse! Especially if you have your eye set on a showy vintage dresser or statement lighting fixture, you’ll want to select a bed that’s more modest in style. This is all to say: choose your bedroom’s power players first. Once you have those squared away, make calls on your remaining bedroom pieces.

Bed

When it comes to choosing a bed, a good deal of ado is given to comfort. In reality however, compared to your mattress, your bed frame has little effect on how dreamily you doze. Rather, pay mind to the size, height, and material of the bed you choose. When it comes to size, consider a bed size that not only accommodates any co-sleeping contingencies, but also complements your bedroom’s size. A too-large bed can instantly clutter a bedroom. As for height, in rooms with low ceilings, a platform can create the illusion of a larger room. It’s worth noting that platform beds tend to skew more modernist, though. So it may not be the most compatible fit for every aesthetic style—traditionalists, be warned. Lastly, consider your bed’s material. Upholstery can usher in a soft feeling, while wood or iron beds tend to skew more stark.

*Design by Still Johnson Interiors / Photo by Jean Allsopp*

Nightstands

You could say that your bed is only as good as your nightstands. Whether you’re an all-day bed-dweller or your relationship with your bed is strictly nocturnal in nature, a nightstand makes the time you spend in bed more functional by hosting all of your necessities. To pick the most befitting nightstand for your needs, take stock of your bedside gear (lamps, clocks, in-progress books, your phone) and size up appropriately. Drawers or cabinet interiors are worth considering if storage is light in your bedroom, but they may not be as mandatory as you think. If you lack square footage, try drafting a pedestal side table to do the job.

*Photo courtesy of Andrew Brown Interiors*

Lighting

While lighting is a must for every bedroom, layers of lighting generally aren’t as important in a bedroom as they are in, say, a living room. In fact, unless you’re a devoted bedtime reader (or frequently moonlight on your laptop), task lighting may not be imperative at all. Rather, choose lighting that will fill your room with a warm, ambient glow. Low-wattage lamps, as well as lamps shrouded with heavy shades, are both good options. No room for a lamp on your nightstands? Consider rigging up sconces on either side of a bed. Plug-in designs work well, especially if they have concealed cords.

*Design by Brockschmidt & Coleman, LLC / Photo by Photography by George Ross*

Seating

A place to perch is a functional addition to any bedroom, and worth incorporating if you can. Since beds tend to take up most of the floor space in a bedroom, you’ll want to pay mind to the size of chair you choose. Select something with a more upright silhouette to save space, if needed, or consider opting for an armless slipper chair design. Upholstered seats are ideal for complementing a bedroom’s plush surrounds, but if you need something less cumbrous, select a more pared-down chair such as an Ib Kofod-Larsen antique rocking chair or an Eames DCW chair. Both evoke a lounging mood but don’t assume much visual space.

*Design by Tish Mills Interiors / Photo by Chris Little*

Dresser

In truth, not every bedroom needs a dresser. Especially if your room is outfitted with ample closet space, a dresser can easily be knocked off the bedroom furniture checklist. At the same time, dressers tend to be narrow. So if you’re looking for a piece to add character to a bedroom that doesn’t eat up much floor space, a dresser might be your answer. When choosing a dresser, assess how much storage you need to make a call on size. As for material, wood is a forever classic, but if you’re looking to get a bit playful, consider lacquer, grasscloth, or even mirrored antique dresser designs.