Modern bedroom ideas are about creating a dreamy space that combines contemporary design and comfort in equal measures. Here's how to get the look just right
Modern bedroom ideas are the perfect combination of contemporary design and comfort(Image credit: Studio Dean)
Although the word modern in design terms is sometimes associated with clean lines and minimal detail, according to the Cambridge Dictionary, the true definition of modern is something designed and made using the most recent ideas and methods.
So while comfort seekers searching for a new bedroom design may assume modern bedroom ideas aren't for them, it could be time to take a closer look at just what defines a modern bedroom.
With interior trendsetters still saying colour, detail and texture are must-haves, a modern bedroom – that is one that uses the most recent ideas – could actually turn out to be the room of your dreams.
Modern bedroom ideas embrace colour, texture and detail
If there's one thing that's clear from the ideas we've sourced, modern bedroom ideas all embrace three key elements: colour, texture and detail.
Whether it's a fashion-inspired feature wall or a black and white monochrome scheme that embraces pattern, there are very few ideas that focus on just one piece of the interiors puzzle. Done well, modern bedroom ideas successfully blend all three parts, with a healthy dose of comfort for good measure.
But don't just take our word for it, it's something the experts all agree with too.
1. Introduce linear design details but soften with natural materials
Using linear design details helps to create a contemporary look(Image credit: Ercol)
If a linear pattern never fails to catch your eye, there are subtle ways of incorporating it into bedroom design without it feeling too harsh.
"Look to nature when creating modern bedrooms to keep them from feeling stark," says Cathy Dean CEO and founder of interior design company, Studio Dean. "Natural curves, fabrics and materials will always look great."
Another techique Cathy recommends is also seen in this bedroom featuring wooden Ercol furniture where the lighting isn't designed to match.
"Asymmetry works wonders, as long as the spaces are balanced and proportional and can instantly modernise your bedroom," says Cathy.
"Switch out the matching bedside tables and lamps for a round and a square one and bring in a drop light or wall light to one side making it fully intentional and mixing shapes."
Cathy Dean
Cathy founded Studio Dean in 2016 and has made it her life’s mission to dispel the myth that functional cannot be beautiful. She excels in creating stunning interior designs that work with everyday life.
2. Look to fashion trends for bedroom inspiration
Who says your bedroom walls can't be a fashion statement?(Image credit: Bobbi Beck)
Where fashion goes, interiors tends to follow – even when it's something as bold as leopard print. Followers of fashion will have no doubt seen leopard print becoming popular again recently and there's no doubt it can equally hold its own in the interiors world.
We love this Diego leopard print wallpaper from Bobbi Beck as a feature wall idea. But to avoid the look becoming too jungle-like, take heed of this bedroom scheme which keeps the overall feel soft and comfortable with pale pink floor to ceiling curtains, cream striped bedding, throws with heaps of textural detail and simple fluted side tables.
"In terms of window dressings always go for panels of fabric running wall to wall and floor to ceiling rather than a traditional pair of curtains," adds Cathy Dean. "It elongates the room, adds acoustic benefits to the space and creates a soft focal point in the room."
if this idea has inspired you, make sure you've got the right wallpaper tools for the job if it's something you're going to tackle yourself.
Check out some of our favourite animal print wallpapers
Large Leopard Spot Wallpaper
This all over leopard spot design features a stylish large scale print and shimmering details.
Felis Wallpaper - Teal
Hand drawn faux animal print, similar to ocelot. Rendered in teal with metallic lime highlights.
Zahara Wallpaper
An all over design of an animal print - Zebra like with a contemporary, contrasting light grit texture.
3. Fluted designs are a must have this year - even in bedrooms
Pair pink, metallics and fluted design for a classical modern bedroom idea(Image credit: Boco Loco)
Fluted designs have been seen across interiors this year and show no signs of disappearing. From tiles to glass, tables to cabinets they are also making an appearance in bedroom design.
Although fluted finishes are often seen in smaller items such as stools or bedroom decor, we love how Boca do Lobo has used a large fluted cabinet in this stylish modern bedroom idea.
Using pink as the base colour - one that still remains popular in the aftermath of the Barbiecore craze - and pairing it with gold and black makes it the epitome of grown-up glamour, but places it very firmly in the territory of modern bedroom ideas.
If you've got an ensuite attached to your bedroom, you could even embrace pink bathroom ideas for a fully cohesive interior.
4. Install bespoke wall panelling
Commission a bespoke design for your modern bedroom ideas(Image credit: Studio Dean)
If your DIY and interior skills don't stretch beyond the basics, or you can't agree on the look you want, using the services of an interior designer can be a worthwhile investment if you are looking for modern bedroom ideas.
It's perfectly demonstrated in this scheme from Studio Dean which uses wall panelling ideas as one of the bedroom features. Founder, Cathy Dean explains why panelling became the signature design feature.
"We were engaged to plan and execute the interior design and architecture for a full house renovation by a happily married couple with totally different styles.
"Julie is a self-confessed modernist and minimalist, who would love a calming house of pure whites, clean lines, no clutter and minimal furniture," explains Cathy. "Steven would love to live in an old-fashioned private members' club style house, with elaborate wood panelling, Chesterfield sofas, deep colours and fabrics and interesting curios.
"As the house is brand new, bringing in gentleman's club style would have been a pastiche and felt inappropriate," says Cathy. "On the flipside, Julie’s minimalist style might have worked, but it would have alienated Steven.
"We therefore designed bespoke modern panelling as a nod to both Steven’s vintage vision and Julie’s minimalism. One we designed something that they both truly loved, this bespoke panelling became the theme that pulled the full house design together.
"The end result exudes quiet luxury due to the small details we built in. We made sure the beading between each panel was identical in width, and tracked lighting in seamlessly where needed. These details add up to overall perfection, which you can feel as soon as you walk into every room."
5. Window shutters are a staple modern classic
Clean white shutters are a great window solution in modern bedroom ideas(Image credit: Blinds2go)
When it comes to window dressing in modern bedroom ideas, simple shutters with their clean lines and handle free finish are a timeless classic that will elevate the windows of most bedrooms.
And while this bedroom pairs clean white shutters with a paired back neutral bedroom design, they can also be made in brighter colours if your preference is for brighter modern bedroom ideas.
Colour blocking can work if you're looking for more masculine modern bedroom ideas(Image credit: Studio Dean)
Colour blocking works well in this bedroom design from Studio Dean, which takes a simple idea of painted wall panels, but elevates it to another level by using different sizes of blocks and also partly wrapping them around one wall. It creates a cosier feel even though it uses angular shapes.
It's an idea that also could be replicated in your own colour choices and would work well for guest bedroom ideas or in a teenagers bedroom, offering a contemporary design that wouldn't date too soon.
7. Add texture in neutral modern bedroom ideas
If neutral choices are your preference, add texture to lift the scheme(Image credit: English Blinds)
Although it's impossible to deny the calm, soothing feel of neutral bedroom ideas, they can risk feeling bland without any element of texture or detail.
If neutrals are your preference, but you're keen for your bedroom to still look modern, it's easily achieveable says Cathy.
"Modern neutral bedrooms are all about softness and simplicity, a space where you can breathe, release the stresses of the day and sleep restfully. Linen bedding, soft tones and a graduating pallet are all calming but pull a room together."
And while this bedroom uses more traditional finishes such as flooring laid in a herringbone pattern, it's a design that stands the test of time and will be equally as relevant if you choose to change your decor.
“Parquet and herringbone are timeless flooring choices for the home due to their traditional and characterful design features," says Carly Greening, creative product manager at The Floor Room.
"They have both been popular flooring choices for centuries and they are unlikely to be going away anytime soon. Both patterns’ intricate designs add visual interest and sophistication to any space and they also fit into both contemporary and period properties alike, making them versatile, as well as stylish.”
Carly Greening
Carly has spent 15 years working in flooring retail and has a wealth of experience including a real focus on interiors trends and creative product development
8. Pair wood with dark walls for timeless appeal
Dark bedroom walls are still a popular modern choice(Image credit: Ercol)
According to research from Swift Direct Blinds, black still remains the favourite bedroom colour. So if you like black and love to follow trends, take inspiration from this bedroom which pairs black walls with white woodwork and a pale wooden floor to soften what could otherwise feel like an imposing colour scheme.
Again, natural materials are seen in the bedroom furniture, while softer layered bedding and cushions in navy, white and grey also add to the feeling of detail and texture.
9. Adding pops of colour is key in modern bedroom ideas
Brighten up a rustic bedroom with pops of brighter colour(Image credit: Furniture Village)
“The most impactful way to create a modern bedroom scheme is through imaginative use of colour," says Shelley Cochrane, accessories buyer at Furniture Village.
"Choose bold, zesty citrus shades of yellow and green for a sunny and optimistic look that feels decidedly modern. Ensure the rest of the scheme is neutral in colour and combine with rattan or whitewashed wooden furniture and accessories for a fresh and contemporary bedroom look."
This bedroom is also given an additional modern twist with the use of the zig-zag patterned artwork that turns a partly rustic bedroom into something more synonymous with recent times.
Shelley Cochrane
Shelley Cochrane is an accessories buyer at Furniture Village and has spent over a decade spent working at the leading furniture retailer. Her keen eye for trends helps her know just how to create the perfect look.
10. Update a traditional setting with a modern decorating idea
Using decorating trends can elevate a more traditional bedroom(Image credit: Studio Dean)
Although the furniture in this room created by Studio Dean nods towards a more traditional style, with the wrought iron bed and wooden side table, it's another great example of how using an interior designer can help add a modern touch to your overall design.
This three quarter height painted effect would be nothing new if simply applied to the walls, but running it across the panelled door immediately makes it something more of the present moment than the past.
As Cathy explains. "We always say “we don’t have a catalogue; we have imaginations and that is what you pay for”. The result is a home that is elevated from ‘ok’ to unique and exceptional, due to the bespoke details that will make your life easier and more beautiful, every day."
If you're planning on using this idea, make sure you follow best advice for painting wood as it's not the same as painting your walls.
Having carpet in your bedroom isn't old-fashioned(Image credit: The Floor Room)
“Give your interiors a breath of fresh air by mixing minimalism, organic lines and mid-century decor to create a neutral modern scheme of comfort for relaxed living," says Carly Greening.
"From the walls to floors, furniture to accessories, use a mix of materials including wood, wool or cork as your base, and begin to layer the scheme with textured materials.
"Marble and fluted wooden tables shouldn’t go amiss and keep the colour palette cohesive," says Carly, "adding small pops of colour through accessories to bring the scheme together.”
But, for that perfect mix of modern and comfort, carpet is a product that still clearly falls on the shopping list for modern bedroom ideas, especially if you've looked at carpet costs and know just what your budget will allow.
"Sumptuously soft wall-to-wall carpet will prove to be a particularly popular choice for bedrooms, owing to the warm and cosy texture it offers on cold mornings and evenings.
"For maximum warmth, choose a 100% wool carpet with a deep pile which will feel especially luxurious underfoot and will provide a comfortable transition from the cosiness of the bed to the floor."
12. Choose monochrome but add pattern
Monochrome is always modern, but don't forget to add patterns(Image credit: Hattie Lloyd Home)
Monochrome falls into the category of modern bedroom ideas that stand the test of time. It's one that we see time and time again, and for good reason. It is modern and it never dates - as long as you incorporate current design ideas to keep it refreshed.
In this scheme, patterned wallpaper once again elevates the room and softens what could otherwise seem cold. Add striped cushions and ceiling mounted bedside lights and you've got a modern bedroom idea that clearly is of the now.
It's also a great solution if you can't bring yourself to consider brighter shades.
"If you’re colour-shy, I’d recommend putting a contemporary spin on a classic monochrome colour palette by focusing on bold silhouettes," says Shelley Cochrane.
"Style a statement headboard with on-trend furniture that features clean lines for a striking contrast that looks modern and impactful."
13. Combine grey with stone and linen
Successful modern bedroom ideas mix grey, cream and stone with soft linens and textures(Image credit: Scooms)
Despite some experts suggesting shades of grey paint have had their day in interiors, there are still those that believe there's a way of making this neutral shade work hard - and we tend to agree.
The key to bringing grey into the realm of modern bedroom ideas? Combine it with cream, natural materials such as stone and dress your bed with the best linen you can afford. It's guaranteed to tick all the boxes, not only for modern bedroom ideas but also the quiet luxury trend.
“When it comes to choosing bed linen for a modern bedroom, nothing works better than natural linen sheets," say Emily and Jonathan Attwood, founders of Scooms.
"Not only beautiful, eco-friendly and sustainable, natural linen is also one of the strongest and most durable fabrics making it a consistently popular fabric choice when it comes to interiors.
"Made from the long, hollow fibres of the flax plant, linen is naturally breathable with great insulation properties which is why it is perfect for bedding. What's more, linen has a naturally crumpled look, which epitomises the laid-back luxury aesthetic that is so popular in the bedroom as we all look to recreate the modern, boutique hotel style at home."
14. Add metallics and statement lighting
Adding metallics will naturally give your modern bedroom ideas the edge(Image credit: Lights&Lamps)
Nothing shouts modern more than metallics. But getting them to look contemporary rather than simply added for the sake of it can be achieved by combining them with sculptural and sleek ceiling lights for a designer look that lasts.
And when it comes to bedroom lighting ideas, don't just assume you need a simple ceiling and bedside light in your modern bedroom idea.
“To create a well-rounded lighting scheme, incorporate a variety of fixtures tailored to different lighting needs," say Niki Wright and Scarlett Hampton design duo and co-founders of lighting design studio, lights&lamps.
"Ambient lighting, provided by ceiling-mounted fixtures or strategically placed recessed lights, establishes the overall illumination level in the room. Task lighting, such as bedside lamps or pendant lights positioned above specific areas like a reading nook, offers targeted brightness."
Shelley Cochrane's final tip for modern bedroom ideas? Be sure to include enough storage in your design.
"Few things date a bedroom more than clutter, so invest in plenty of storage to keep surfaces clear. A bed that features storage is a practical and space-saving solution that will ensure the bedroom looks modern and clutter-free.”
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Sarah is Homebuilding & Renovating’s Assistant Editor and joined the team in 2024. An established homes and interiors writer, Sarah has renovated and extended a number of properties, including a listing building and renovation project that featured on Grand Designs. Although she said she would never buy a listed property again, she has recently purchased a Grade II listed apartment. As it had already been professionally renovated, she has instead set her sights on tackling some changes to improve the building’s energy efficiency, as well as adding some personal touches to the interior.
