TL;DR
A Brooklyn couple transformed their small bedroom by repositioning the bed, adding IKEA PAX wardrobes for storage, and painting a serene mural. The redesign maximized space and created a more inclusive, relaxing environment.
A Brooklyn couple has completed a major redesign of their 9×9-foot bedroom, incorporating IKEA PAX wardrobes and a custom mural to optimize space and create a more inclusive, calming environment. This transformation addresses storage challenges and personalizes the space for both partners, making it a significant improvement for small-space living.
The couple, living in a small Brooklyn apartment, faced a limited bedroom layout that made movement and storage difficult. They repositioned the bed against a different wall, allowing for better circulation and space on either side. To address storage needs, they installed two IKEA PAX wardrobes with GULLABERG doors on either side of the bed, which doubled as nightstands and provided ample storage. To unify the look, they added painted pine planks across the top of the wardrobes and a tension rod with a valance, creating a built-in appearance. The first step in the room’s transformation was painting a traditional landscape mural using Benjamin Moore paints, replacing a previous geometric blue design. The mural depicts woodland scenery, adding a tranquil, inviting atmosphere. The entire project was completed with a focus on maximizing functionality within the small space, resulting in a bedroom that feels both personal and practical.
Maximizing Small Space Storage and Personalization
This redesign demonstrates how small-space living can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. By creatively repositioning furniture and adding custom elements like a mural, the couple achieved a more comfortable, personalized environment. The use of IKEA PAX wardrobes as both storage and visual anchors shows how affordable solutions can effectively improve tiny homes, offering inspiration for others facing similar spatial constraints.
Fenghua Lizhi 3 Doors Wooden Wardrobe Closet Armoire, White Storage Cabinet for Hanging Clothes, Bedroom Large Capacity Freestanding Armoire,Wood Wardrobe Combination with Shelves
▶ Quality is very good: the surface of the wardrobe board uses unpainted stickers, smooth and delicate, easy…
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Small Brooklyn Apartments and Creative Storage Solutions
Living in compact Brooklyn apartments often presents storage and layout challenges. Prior to the renovation, the bedroom had limited space, with a simple layout that made movement difficult. The addition of IKEA PAX wardrobes and a mural reflects a broader trend of small-space optimization through DIY and affordable furniture hacks. This project aligns with recent increases in small apartment redesigns, emphasizing personalized, space-efficient solutions that balance aesthetics and practicality.
“The couple managed to create a functional and calming bedroom within less than 9 by 9 feet, thanks to strategic furniture placement and a custom mural.”
— Apartment Therapy
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Remaining Questions About Long-Term Durability and Style
It is not yet clear how the IKEA PAX wardrobes will hold up over time in a high-traffic, small bedroom environment, or whether the mural will require touch-ups or repainting. The long-term impact of this layout change on storage efficiency and overall comfort remains to be seen.
JARLINK Over The Door Organizer Storage, 5 Shelf Hanging Door Organizer with 5 Large Capacity Pockets, Anti Tilt 44 lb Load Behind Door Storage for Bedroom, Bathroom, Pantry, Nursery, (Grey)
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Next Steps for Maintaining and Enhancing the Space
The couple plans to monitor the durability of their furniture and mural, considering potential future updates such as additional storage solutions or seasonal decor changes. They may also explore further customization options to adapt the space as their needs evolve. The project serves as an example for others seeking affordable, DIY solutions for small-space living.
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Key Questions
How did the couple maximize storage in such a small bedroom?
They installed two IKEA PAX wardrobes on either side of the bed, which doubled as nightstands and provided ample storage for clothing and belongings. They also added painted pine planks and a tension rod with a valance to create a built-in look, further optimizing space.
What inspired the mural design?
The couple chose a traditional landscape scene with woodland imagery, painted using Benjamin Moore’s ‘White Rain’ and ‘Covington Blue’. The mural was selected to evoke calmness and serenity, enhancing the room’s relaxing atmosphere.
Was the furniture installation difficult for a DIY project?
While some assembly was required, the project used affordable, straightforward IKEA pieces and simple DIY techniques like painting and adding planks, making it manageable for most homeowners interested in small-space hacks.
Will the mural need maintenance or repainting?
It is not yet clear how the mural will age or withstand daily wear, but regular touch-ups or repainting may be necessary over time to maintain its appearance.
Are there other similar small-bedroom redesign ideas?
Yes, many small-space dwellers use furniture that doubles as storage, creative wall art, and layout adjustments to maximize functionality and style in limited areas.
Source: Apartment Therapy
