Decorating

7 Ways to Maximize The Empty Space Above Your Bed

You can turn it into a storage spot or a mini gallery featuring your favorite things

Photography: Jose Luis Salazar | Jilson Tiu (Main Photos)

Look up from your bed and focus on the space above it—what do you see? Many add mirrors and framed works of art while others choose to leave it blank. The space above the bed is one of the most overlooked parts of a bedroom as it can be turned into a storage spot or a captivating focal point. Opting to have a headboard helps create an illusion of a bigger bedroom while letting you maximize the available vertical space, but what if you’re not too keen on having one? There are many alternatives you can look into such as adding quirky wall accents and painting a mural. Let these ideas collated from our featured homes inspire you:

Display mini wall accents that add charm to the room.


Many homeowners will agree when we say that it’s quite difficult to shop for the right wall accent. It’s either you can’t choose between two options or you can’t find one that suits the look of your room. But what if you find one but it’s small? You can take inspiration from how design consultant Grace Moslares spruced up the blank space above the bed—by showcasing four similar accents in a row. It may be simple but it can add to the chic and sleek appeal of your space.

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Shop for similar accents at Robinsons Department Store.

You can’t go wrong with mirrors.


It’s safe to say that mirrors are musts in any home. You can display a rectangular one above your bed to make your bedroom appear wider and more spacious. An ordinary mirror may look a little lackluster so pick one with an interesting frame or pair it with colorful accents to liven up the wall.

Find similar pieces at The Landmark.

Go all out with art.


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Why settle for a painting when you can create an accent wall that wows? Consider creating a mural featuring a landscape you love, a wall print that can be customized, or a striking wallpaper that can double as art. The possibilities are endless so don’t stick to a solid-colored wall.

Mix-and-match display shelves.


Shelves can look boring if you’re not open to experiments. Similar to what interior designer Erika Uichanco did in this loft-type bedroom, you can work with display shelves in different sizes then showcase toys, potted plants, and a few photos. Go for unexpected pairings that can make the space above your bed quirkier and more interesting.

Install a wooden ledge with mini spotlights.


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Are you the type who loves to read books and magazines before going to bed? It can be easier with reading lights that are installed right above you. Let this bedroom designed by interior designer Catherine Cena-Yambao be your peg. To maximize the available space and to add height, she installed wooden panels that serve as a headboard, then paired it with a wooden ledge that can hold books and other belongings. Underneath the ledge are two lights that can be adjusted depending on where you are seated so you can read comfortably.

Don’t let an inch of space go to waste.


If you already have a headboard and an accent wall, there’s more you can do to liven up the bedroom and make it truly your own. You can make use of the space between the headboard and the wall to display some of your favorite paintings and framed pieces. Simply prop these against the wall with the headboard serving as support. Keep these from falling by securing the pieces using Blu Tack or any adhesive.


There are condo units with niches above the bed that can hold paintings, photos, and other wall accents. Layer them against each other, create depth, and play with height to create a beautiful display.

Blu Tack is available in hardware stores.

Go for unexpected décor.


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Who says you can only display photographs, shelves, mirrors, and paintings above your bed? You can also experiment with unique plates similar to how interior designer Wilan Dayrit decorated his bedroom. He paired it with a beautiful wall art to create a balanced look. Aside from plates, you can also work with woven pieces and macramé creations.

Find similar pieces at a11.

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