15 Cool Ideas To Use Space Behind The Bed

When it comes to interior design, the space behind the bed is often overlooked. However, this area can be a goldmine for adding functionality, style, and a personal touch to your bedroom. From floating nightstands to wall-mounted coat hooks, there are numerous creative ways to maximize this often-neglected area. Let’s dive into 15 cool ideas that will transform your bedroom and make it a haven of comfort and style.

1. Attach Floating Nightstands

Floating nightstands are an excellent solution for those who want to save floor space while maintaining necessary bedside storage. These sleek and modern fixtures can be easily installed on the wall behind your bed, providing a platform for your bedtime essentials without cluttering the floor.

How to Install Floating Nightstands

Measure and Mark: Measure the height and width of your nightstand and mark the wall where you want to install it.
Attach Brackets: Use sturdy brackets and screws to secure the nightstand to the wall. Ensure the brackets are level and tightly fastened.
Mount the Nightstand: Place the nightstand on the brackets and check for stability. Adjust if necessary.

Pro Tip: Choose nightstands with a minimalist design to avoid overwhelming the space. Consider lighting options such as LED strips to create a warm and inviting ambiance.

Advantages	Disadvantages
Saves floor space	Requires wall space
Adds modern flair	May need professional installation
Provides storage for essentials	Not suitable for heavy items

2. Add an Upholstered Headboard

An upholstered headboard is a classic addition that can instantly elevate the look of your bedroom. Whether you opt for a simple rectangular design or a more elaborate tufted headboard, this feature adds comfort and visual interest to the space behind your bed.

How to Install an Upholstered Headboard

Measure the Wall: Measure the area behind your bed to determine the size of the headboard.
Choose the Fabric: Select a fabric that complements your bedroom decor. Consider durable materials for longevity.
Install Mounting Hardware: Attach the mounting hardware to the wall and the back of the headboard.
Hang the Headboard: Carefully hang the headboard on the mounting hardware and ensure it is secure.

Pro Tip: For a customized touch, consider adding LED lighting under the headboard to create a soft, ambient glow.

3. Build a Faux Headboard

If you’re looking for a DIY project that adds a unique touch to your bedroom, consider building a faux headboard. This can be a simple or elaborate design, depending on your preferences and skill level.

How to Build a Faux Headboard

Choose Your Material: Opt for materials like wood, foam board, or fabric to create your headboard.
Measure and Cut: Measure the space behind your bed and cut your chosen material to size.
Attach to the Wall: Use strong adhesive or mounting hardware to secure the headboard to the wall.
Decorate: Add decorative elements such as paint, wallpaper, or trim to enhance the look.

Pro Tip: Use a contrasting color or pattern to make the faux headboard stand out. Consider adding built-in shelves for additional storage.

4. Install Wall-Mounted Reading Lights

Reading in bed is a beloved pastime for many, and wall-mounted reading lights are a practical and stylish solution. These lights can be installed directly behind the bed, providing focused lighting without cluttering your nightstands.

How to Install Wall-Mounted Reading Lights

Choose the Lights: Select wall-mounted reading lights that match your bedroom’s aesthetic.
Mark the Wall: Measure and mark the wall where you want to install the lights.
Wire the Lights: If the lights require hardwiring, hire a professional electrician to install them.
Mount the Lights: Attach the lights to the wall using the provided mounting hardware.

Pro Tip: Consider dimmable lights to adjust the brightness and create a cozy reading environment.

5. Display Meaningful Art

The space behind the bed is an ideal location for displaying meaningful art. Whether it’s a family portrait, a favourite painting, or a collection of photographs, art can add a personal touch and create a focal point in your bedroom.

How to Display Meaningful Art

Choose the Art: Select pieces that resonate with you and complement your bedroom decor.
Frame the Art: Choose frames that enhance the art and fit the overall style of your room.
Measure and Mark: Measure the wall and mark the spots where you want to hang the art.
Hang the Art: Use appropriate hanging hardware to secure the art to the wall.

Pro Tip: Group smaller pieces of art to create a gallery wall effect. Use a level to ensure the art is hung straight.

6. Build a Storage Headboard

A storage headboard is a multifunctional addition that combines style and practicality. This type of headboard can include shelves, drawers, and other storage solutions, making it perfect for small bedrooms or those who need extra space.

How to Build a Storage Headboard

Choose the Design: Decide on a design that includes the type and amount of storage you need.
Measure the Wall: Measure the space behind your bed to ensure the headboard fits properly.
Build the Headboard: Use wood, plywood, or other sturdy materials to construct the headboard. Add shelves, drawers, and other storage compartments.
Install the Headboard: Attach the headboard to the wall using strong mounting hardware.

Pro Tip: Consider adding a soft, cushioned top to the headboard for added comfort and visual appeal.

7. Hang a Tapestry

A tapestry can transform a plain wall into a work of art. This versatile decoration can add color, texture, and personality to the space behind your bed.

How to Hang a Tapestry

Choose the Tapestry: Select a tapestry that fits the dimensions of the wall and complements your bedroom decor.
Prepare the Wall: Clean the wall and ensure it is smooth and free of debris.
Attach Hooks or Clips: Use sturdy hooks or clips to hang the tapestry. Space them evenly along the top edge.
Hang the Tapestry: Carefully place the tapestry on the hooks or clips, ensuring it is straight and secure.

Pro Tip: Use a tension rod to hang the tapestry without damaging the wall. This method is easy to install and remove.

8. Add Wallpaper

Wallpaper is a fantastic way to add depth and character to the space behind your bed. Whether you choose a bold pattern, a soothing solid color, or a textured design, wallpaper can create a focal point and enhance the overall look of your bedroom.

How to Add Wallpaper

Choose the Wallpaper: Select a pattern or color that complements your bedroom decor.
Prepare the Wall: Clean the wall and remove any imperfections. Apply a primer if necessary.
Measure and Cut: Measure the wall and cut the wallpaper to size, allowing for a few extra inches at the top and bottom.
Apply the Wallpaper: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to apply the wallpaper to the wall. Use a smoothing tool to remove air bubbles and wrinkles.

Pro Tip: Consider using a removable wallpaper for easy updates or changes in the future.

9. Install Sconces

Wall sconces are a stylish and practical lighting option that can be installed behind the bed. These fixtures can provide ambient lighting, create a warm and inviting atmosphere, and complement your bedroom’s decor.

How to Install Wall Sconces

Choose the Sconces: Select wall sconces that match your bedroom’s style and provide the desired lighting.
Mark the Wall: Measure and mark the wall where you want to install the sconces.
Wire the Sconces: If the sconces require hardwiring, hire a professional electrician to install them.
Mount the Sconces: Attach the sconces to the wall using the provided mounting hardware.

Pro Tip: Consider dimmable sconces to adjust the lighting and create a relaxing ambiance.

10. Attach Corner Shelves

Corner shelves are a smart and efficient way to use the space behind the bed. These shelves can be used for displaying books, plants, or decorative items without taking up valuable floor space.

How to Attach Corner Shelves

Choose the Shelves: Select corner shelves that fit the dimensions of the space behind your bed.
Prepare the Wall: Clean the wall and ensure it is smooth and free of debris.
Install Mounting Brackets: Attach the mounting brackets to the wall using strong screws and anchors.
Mount the Shelves: Place the shelves on the mounting brackets and ensure they are level and secure.

Pro Tip: Use L-shaped brackets for added stability and support. Consider adding LED strips beneath the shelves for a modern touch.

11. Use Mirrors to Expand the Space

Mirrors can create the illusion of a larger room and add a touch of elegance to your bedroom. By installing a mirror behind the bed, you can reflect light and make the space feel more open and airy.

How to Use Mirrors to Expand the Space

Choose the Mirror: Select a mirror that fits the space behind your bed and complements your bedroom decor.
Prepare the Wall: Clean the wall and ensure it is smooth and free of debris.
Attach Mounting Hardware: Install sturdy mounting hardware to securely attach the mirror to the wall.
Hang the Mirror: Carefully place the mirror on the mounting hardware, ensuring it is straight and secure.

Pro Tip: Use a large, frameless mirror for a more seamless and expansive look. Consider placing the mirror near a light source to maximize the reflection.

12. Build a Bookcase Headboard

A bookcase headboard is a creative and functional addition that combines storage and style. This type of headboard can hold books, decorative items, and other essentials, making it perfect for book lovers and those who need extra storage.

How to Build a Bookcase Headboard

Choose the Design: Decide on a design that includes the type and amount of storage you need.
Measure the Wall: Measure the space behind your bed to ensure the headboard fits properly.
Build the Bookcase: Use wood, plywood, or other sturdy materials to construct the bookcase. Add shelves and compartments as needed.
Install the Bookcase: Attach the bookcase to the wall using strong mounting hardware.

Pro Tip: Consider adding soft, cushioned sections to the bookcase headboard for added comfort and visual appeal.

13. Add Wall-Mounted Coat Hooks

Wall-mounted coat hooks can be a practical and stylish addition to the space behind the bed. They provide a convenient place to hang clothes, bags, or accessories without cluttering the floor.

How to Add Wall-Mounted Coat Hooks

Choose the Hooks: Select wall-mounted coat hooks that match your bedroom’s style and provide the desired storage.
Measure and Mark: Measure the wall and mark the spots where you want to install the hooks.
Install the Hooks: Use strong screws and anchors to securely attach the hooks to the wall.
Organize Your Items: Hang clothes, bags, or accessories on the hooks to keep them organized and accessible.

Pro Tip: Consider using hooks with a unique design or material to add a decorative element to your bedroom.

14. Install Decorative Wall Panels

Decorative wall panels can add texture, depth, and visual interest to the space behind your bed. These panels come in a variety of styles, including wood, metal, and fabric, and can be installed to create a custom look.

How to Install Decorative Wall Panels

Choose the Panels: Select decorative wall panels that complement your bedroom decor.
Measure the Wall: Measure the space behind your bed to ensure the panels fit properly.
Prepare the Wall: Clean the wall and ensure it is smooth and free of debris.
Install the Panels: Use strong adhesive or mounting hardware to securely attach the panels to the wall.

Pro Tip: Consider using a mix of different panel designs to create a unique and dynamic look.

15. Display Collections

The space behind the bed is an ideal location for displaying collections, such as vases, figurines, or travel souvenirs. By showcasing your favorite items, you can add a personal touch and create a focal point in your bedroom.

How to Display Collections

Choose the Items: Select items from your collection that you want to display.
Choose the Display Method: Decide whether you want to use shelves, wall-mounted frames, or other display methods.
Install the Display: Install the chosen display method on the wall behind your bed.
Arrange the Items: Place your collection items on the display, arranging them in a visually appealing way.

Pro Tip: Group items by size, color, or theme to create a cohesive and eye-catching display.

Conclusion

The space behind the bed is a valuable area that can be transformed into a functional and stylish part of your bedroom. Whether you choose to attach floating nightstands, add an upholstered headboard, or display meaningful art, there are countless ways to make the most of this often-neglected space. By implementing one or more of these 15 cool ideas, you can create a bedroom that is both beautiful and practical.

For more inspiration and DIY projects, check out Hunker and HGTV. Happy decorating!