Alcove beds are a fantastic solution for those looking to accommodate guests in a small room; they can be constructed as single beds as well as bunks. Many interior designers enjoy incorporating alcove beds into the homes they design because they’re a whimsical and practical addition to any space, Grey Joyner, the founder of Grey Joyner Interiors, says.
Below, we break down the alcove bed design process and share examples of 16 stunning alcove bed setups.
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How to Design an Alcove Bed
Design Elements
When designing an alcove bed, you will want to take proper lighting into account.
“They are inset, so they have little access to natural light,” Joyner says of alcove beds, noting that she will add sconces beside these beds instead of solely relying on a room’s overhead fixtures.
Scones are also ideal in that they can be mounted to the wall beside the bed, eliminating the need for bedside tables.
You may wish to add curtains around your alcove bed to create a cozy and private space, Joyner says. This can also be a nice way to hide the bed when it isn’t in use.
Incorporating shelving is also key, so you can easily set down a book, your phone, or a glass of water, Hayden Dendy, a project designer with BRNS Design, says. Dendy explains how he always includes outlets at each shelf location.
Considerations to Take Into Account
It’s important that an alcove bed does not look out of place and it organically belongs, Amy Sklar, the founder of Sklar Design, says.
“Intention is key—it must be thoughtfully designed and placed so it feels like it was always a part of the room,” Sklar says.
You’ll also want to keep functionality top of mind when designing your alcove bed, so it’s easy to get in and out of the bed at all times, Sklar says. She adds that in some cases, it can be useful to place a set of built-in stairs beside the bed. Additionally, be mindful to design a bed that will stand the test of time.
“It’s important to consider the height of the people who will use this bed primarily now, but also in the future,” Sklar says.
Remember that alcove beds are great solutions for small spaces and can even help to provide additional storage within a room. Joyner explains how she included filing cabinets and some hidden storage compartments in an alcove bed to maximize a gentleman’s office space.
You can also install drawers underneath the bed and use these to house off-season clothing, bed linens, and more.
16 Inspiring Alcove Bed Ideas
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