Decorating the wall above your bed is like putting the final cherry on a cake. You’ve got the bed frame, cozy bedding, maybe a throw blanket casually tossed across the corner, but the above-bed space?
That’s your chance to create a focal point that ties everything together. Too many people leave it blank, and honestly, that’s like wearing a great outfit but forgetting the shoes.
1. Large Statement Art Piece
Sometimes, all it takes is one oversized art piece to set the entire mood of your bedroom. Go bold with a canvas that reflects your style—abstract, landscape, or even something quirky.
The average recommended width for art above a queen bed is about two-thirds the width of the bed (roughly 40–50 inches). This proportion balances without overwhelming the space.
When I hung a bold abstract piece above my bed, guests instantly commented on how it felt like a gallery. It transformed the space without me needing to add anything else.
2. A Gallery Wall
If you’re indecisive or love variety, a gallery wall might be your best friend. Mix and match frames, artwork, personal photos, or typography prints.
To keep it cohesive, stick to a color palette—black frames with black-and-white photos or gold frames with botanical prints. According to interior design trends, gallery walls have surged by 37% in Pinterest searches in the past two years.
Pro tip: Lay out your gallery on the floor first before committing to nails. Trust me, it saves a lot of patchwork later.
3. Floating Shelves
Floating shelves give you flexibility. You can style them with books, plants, candles, or mini sculptures. They create depth while still being functional.
I once installed two floating shelves above my bed and styled them with trailing pothos plants and framed quotes. It felt cozy and ever-changing since I could swap items whenever I got bored.
Keep in mind: shelves should be at least 12 inches above your headboard to avoid knocking your head when you sit up.
4. Tapestries or Fabric Wall Hangings
Textiles add warmth where paint or frames can feel rigid. A tapestry or woven wall hanging softens the space and makes it feel bohemian or cozy.
The good thing is, they’re budget-friendly. You can find beautiful woven hangings on Etsy or even DIY macrame versions. Plus, they’re lightweight compared to heavy art, which is reassuring if you worry about things falling off the wall at night.
5. Mirrors for Depth and Light
A mirror above the bed can make the room feel bigger and brighter. If your bedroom lacks natural light, this is a cheat code.
Choose a round mirror for a softer look or a rectangular one for something structured. Feng Shui enthusiasts sometimes avoid mirrors above beds, but if you’re not strict about that, they can be stunning.
6. Statement Headboard Extension
Sometimes, the decor above the bed isn’t separate at all—it’s an extension of your headboard. Think tall upholstered panels, tufted designs, or even wooden slats that climb the wall.
This works especially well in modern bedrooms. In fact, upholstered headboards that extend upward are trending in luxury interiors because they create a hotel-like vibe.
7. Accent Wallpaper Panel
Why not let the wall itself be the art? Adding a wallpaper panel above the bed creates a dramatic effect. Florals, geometrics, or textured patterns can all work.
When I tried peel-and-stick wallpaper behind my bed, it instantly gave the illusion of a feature wall without the cost of an entire room makeover.
8. Macrame or Boho Accents
If your style leans toward relaxed, earthy vibes, macrame wall art is perfect. The neutral tones and textures add depth without overwhelming.
Macrame has made a huge comeback, especially among millennials and Gen Z. Sales of handmade macrame decor on Etsy have increased by over 50% since 2020. It’s not just a trend—it’s timeless when done right.
9. Oversized Clock
Yes, a giant clock can double as art and functionality. It works especially well in minimalist or industrial bedrooms.
Choose one with bold Roman numerals or sleek metallic finishes. Just don’t rely on it as your actual alarm clock—you’ll never want to crane your neck that much first thing in the morning.
10. Personalized Name Signs or Quotes
Adding a personalized wooden name sign or a favorite quote in stylish typography gives your bedroom a unique signature.
I once gifted my friend a custom cursive name sign for her wedding, and she hung it above the bed—it instantly became the centerpiece of their room. It’s simple but personal, which often beats expensive art.
11. Plants and Greenery
Nothing brings life to a space quite like plants. Hanging planters, mounted shelves with greenery, or even a trailing ivy above your bed can create a peaceful vibe.
NASA’s famous Clean Air Study even suggested that certain indoor plants improve air quality by removing toxins. So, it’s not just decor—it’s functional too.
Just avoid placing super heavy ceramic planters directly above your head. Stick to lightweight options or faux plants for safety.
12. Sculptural or 3D Wall Art
Flat art is classic, but 3D wall art—like metal sculptures or carved wooden designs—adds dimension.
A friend of mine hung a metal tree sculpture above her bed, and it instantly became the room’s conversation starter. It’s eye-catching in a way flat art rarely is.
13. Wall Sconces
Wall sconces aren’t just lighting; they’re decor too. Mounting them on either side above your bed creates symmetry and elegance.
According to Houzz, bedroom wall sconces have grown in popularity by 28% over the past year because they free up nightstand space while adding ambiance.
Opt for adjustable swing-arm sconces if you’re a late-night reader—you’ll thank yourself.
14. DIY Wooden Planks or Panels
If you’re into DIY projects, installing wooden planks or panels can create a rustic or modern accent above the bed.
When I tried this in my guest room with reclaimed wood, it gave the space a cozy cabin feel without spending much. Just be sure to seal the wood properly if it’s raw to avoid splinters or dust issues.
15. Minimalist Line Art
If your style is clean and understated, minimalist line art above the bed is perfect. Think simple sketches of faces, nature outlines, or abstract shapes.
Minimalist art prints are incredibly popular on Instagram-worthy interiors because they don’t overwhelm the space but still make it feel curated.
16. Fairy Lights or String Lights
Fairy lights aren’t just for dorm rooms—they’ve matured. Draped neatly above the bed, they create a soft, dreamy glow.
Pair them with sheer fabric for a canopy-like effect, or run them across a wooden beam for rustic charm. I used to have these in my apartment bedroom, and every night felt like stepping into a cozy cafe.
17. Wall Decals or Stickers
For renters or commitment-phobes, wall decals are a lifesaver. They peel off without damage but can mimic painted murals.
Options range from nature-inspired decals (like trees and birds) to geometric shapes. They’re budget-friendly and perfect for experimenting.
18. Layered Frames or Leaned Art
Instead of hanging, try layering art frames on a ledge above your bed. It feels casual, artistic, and less permanent.
This method lets you swap art easily whenever you get tired of a look. I’ve done this in my own bedroom, and it gave me the freedom to rotate seasonal prints—snowy landscapes in winter, florals in spring.
19. Architectural Details (Molding or Arches)
Finally, sometimes the best above-bed decor is built into the wall itself. Molding, faux arches, or painted half-circles create instant architectural interest.
Arched designs, in particular, have been trending across Instagram interiors because they add softness and a Mediterranean feel. With just a can of paint and a steady hand, you can create a similar effect.
Conclusion
Decorating above your bed isn’t just about filling empty wall space—it’s about defining the personality of your bedroom. Whether you’re going bold with a statement art piece, cozy with macrame, or sleek with sconces, the right choice sets the tone for your sanctuary.
Personally, I’ve found that the above-bed area often becomes the most talked-about part of a bedroom. It’s like a handshake—it introduces the room’s character before anything else.
So, whether you pick plants, panels, or personalized signs, remember this: it’s less about following trends and more about what makes you smile when you walk in after a long day.