This article will help you answer key questions to create the perfect bedroom. To get going, ask yourself:

1. What is the size?

Begin by determining the size of your bedroom. No layout allows you to fit a king size bed into a small room measuring 7’x10″(6m2) and still have the door open.

A 10’x11″ (10 m2) bedroom might be designed with a queen or full-sized bed along the longest wall flanked by sconce-lit bedside tables.

If you have a small room, your nightstands will be smaller. A sconce above the nightstand can make it appear larger, giving you more space for books and personal items.

For a 15’x20″ (27m2) suite, it would be ideal to place the bed along with your nightstands to create an area for sleeping, and then plan a seating space near a window, or in a cozy corner.

It is also important to consider the shape of your room. In a square room, the bed is usually placed along the wall facing the door and nightstands are on either side. If you have a narrow, long bedroom, the bed can be centered along the wall and a seating area placed opposite.

What is the average size of a bedroom?

The average US bedroom is 132 square feet (11 feet x 12 feet, or 3.3 meters x 3.6 meters). It is enough room for a queen bed and a small closet.

2. What will I use it for?

Knowing how you will use the bedroom is a good place to start before designing the layout. It is important to consider this when designing a layout.

If you want to watch TV in bed, place it so that you can see it. This is usually perpendicular or directly across from the bed. Choose a design that allows you to store your items around your desk if your bedroom is the perfect space for your home-office.

If you are a reader, include reading lights in the bed or comfortable reading chairs. If you plan to only sleep in the bedroom, place the bed as far as possible away from drafty or noisy areas.

Ask yourself also how many people will be using the room. A small room layout for a young child may include a play area and a twin-sized bed, whereas a room designed for two older children might require a bunk bed with two desks.

If you’re living alone, this layout may allow you to have the reading nook that you want.

3. What are the architectural elements?

Be sure to include the fireplace, mantel and surround, closets, ensuite bathrooms and doors in your design.

Remember to include ceiling elements like vaulted or beamed ceilings. Place your bed to take full advantage of these features.

Plan out other practical features like heating vents and electrical outlets. Plan for a 3-foot-wide swing if your standard 36″ (90 cm wide) door.

4. What is the view like?

Imagine the view outside your window as you awaken.

You may have a beautiful view of the mountains, ocean or city skyline. Do you want to keep it? You can see your fireplace from bed.

It is sometimes a good idea to place the bed next to a window that does not have a view.

Consider what you see as you enter the room. When you enter the bedroom, the foot of the bed will often be the first thing that you see. What would you say is the best option for your room?

5. Where should I put the bed?

Your bed is the focal point of your bedroom. The best place to put a bed is usually along the longest wall.

To create a tranquil bedroom, it’s best to arrange your bed in a symmetrical fashion.

It’s possible to achieve symmetry when you place it between two columns or built-in shelves, or even two windows. You can achieve symmetry with an armoire to balance a large, ornate mattress or by placing mirrors in front of an off-center windows.

6. How should I arrange my furniture?

It is best to keep the bedroom furniture simple and clutter-free. This means avoiding unnecessary furniture.

List the things you need. You may not need a large dresser if you have plenty of closet space. A small table that can also be used as a workspace is a good option if you are short on space.

It’s a good idea to “zone out” the bedroom. Think of it as a series of zones and then decorate accordingly. You can then furnish the room to meet your needs without having it overcrowded.

7. Do I have clear paths and good flow?

Keep in mind that you should have at least two feet around your bed when designing the layout of your bedroom. If you share a space with a partner, make sure your bed is accessible on both sides.

Make sure to not block any natural paths in your bedroom. This is especially true for the bathroom. Make it easy for you to get from one place to another!

8. Where should I place the lighting?

When designing your bedroom layout, your lighting choices will be influenced by the size, height, and access to natural sunlight of your room.

In bedrooms with low ceilings flush-mount overhead lights and recessed pot lights are ideal. Wall sconces and small table lights that illuminate the reading area are great choices to flank your bed.

Chandeliers are often used in bedrooms with a grander feel. In warmer climates, or when airflow is a concern, a ceiling fan with directional lighting can be an excellent choice.

You can use a floor lamp to illuminate your reading area. Accent lighting is a great way to bring out artwork and collections.

9. What mood do I want to create?

Most of us spend an excessive amount of time in the bedroom, and we consider it a haven. It means something different to each of us.

Create a Zen-like space by minimizing clutter and maximizing modern organic elements. Choose a tufted bed, floral fabrics and traditional furniture to create a more cozy space. If you’re going for a more eclectic style, use brighter colors and bold patterns.