72 Modern Bedroom Ideas and Design Tips

Contemporary vs. Modern

Many people use the words “contemporary” and “modern” interchangeably, but they are not the same. Modern refers to a particular style. On the other hand, contemporary refers to the styles in vogue at that time, and so “contemporary” is a fluid, ever-changing concept.

Because modern decor is currently extremely popular, it falls under the contemporary umbrella, adding to the confusion. The bedroom shown here is a prime example of midcentury modern design—an example of a popular decor style that embraces decidedly modern attributes.

Form Follows Function

The modernism movement embraced the concept, “Form follows function,” meaning that the most important aspect of a piece of furniture (or space) is its intended use rather than its appearance. In other words, appearance is secondary to function.

This doesn’t mean modern style is ugly; it means that it is typically without unnecessary adornment. Clean lines on furnishings and plenty of open space are essential components of this look.

Mid-century Modern

By far the most popular variation of modern style is what’s commonly referred to as mid-century modern, or MCM.

Created in the United States during the 1920s and 1930s, MCM reached the pinnacle of popularity during the 1950s and 1960s, practically defining the decorating style of those decades.

Midcentury modern is once again red-hot on the decorating scene, with no signs of fading away anytime soon.

Modern Color Schemes

Traditionally, the modern color scheme is neutral: Various shades of brown, cream, tan, black, gray, and white predominate. Early Bauhaus designers used small touches of red, yellow, or blue as accents.

As the style matured, neutrals remained the primary palette, but the use of bright, cheery accent colors became more common.

Natural Materials

Modern and midcentury modern decor embrace natural materials, particularly wood, as seen in the primary bedroom shown here. However, the use of plastics and chrome is an integral part of the MCM look, adding the color, shine, and celebration of mass-produced things that are typical of this style.

Geometric Patterns

Clean-lined geometric patterns are prized in the modern style. “Atomic” designs are an especially fun touch in a midcentury modern bedroom. The combination of color and shape is artistic yet functional.

Spotlight on Art

Fussy knickknacks, unnecessary collectibles, and general clutter are nowhere to be seen in the modern bedroom.

Instead, this style spotlights artwork, especially large paintings, posters, or prints on the walls. If you can overlay a gorgeous painting over a patterned wall like the room shown here, even better.

Scandinavian Modern

An offshoot of midcentury modern, Scandinavian modern embraces a similar clean, streamlined, and functional look but tends to use white far more than the other neutrals, particularly on the floors and walls. Classic IKEA furniture is an example of a Scandinavian modern design.

Raised Furniture

One thing you’ll see a lot of on midcentury modern furniture are legs, particularly metal hairpin or simple wooden dowel legs. The raised profile of MCM furniture is characteristic of the airy openness of the style and makes these pieces especially well-suited to small rooms.

Bright Accents

While a subdued color scheme is a hallmark of modern décor, pops of bright accent color keep it from being lifeless. Red and orange are especially popular as accents, although any favorite color can play the part. The jewel toned green drapes look bright in this neutral color scheme room.

Versatility and Flexibility

Modern style is versatile enough to work with just about anyone's needs. Create a bedroom that works for you; after all, functionality is a basic theme of modernism. This designer incorporated a small work area in this modern bedroom.

Added Interest

Despite the simple lines, neutral colors, and lack of accessories in the typical modern bedroom, the look isn't at all boring or sterile. Just one special touch, such as the dandelion light fixture in this room, is all it takes to add interest.

Light and Airy

The modern style is not one for clutter or lots of furniture. Instead, a light, airy vibe adds to the overall clean and simple appearance. Including only specific items that play a distinct role highlight what is truly important, and will be essential in helping you keep your things spacious and minimal.

Polished Surfaces

For the most part, surfaces in a modern room are smooth and often shiny. Polished floors, lacquered or highly polished furniture, accents of metal—especially chrome—and glass all add to the clean, modern vibe.

A Show of Personality

Whatever your decorating style, feel free to have some fun adding your own touches to the mix. An array of prints, a folded favorite quilt, a souvenir basket holding a potted plant—little changes can make the biggest difference in a modern space.

Multi-Purpose Furniture

Furniture that serves more than one purpose screams modern design. Pieces like a bench with storage space at the foot of the bed or a bed frame with built-in floating shelves to serve as side tables fit the modern look perfectly.

Selecting sleek, multi-functioning pieces is a fantastic way to add the design to your room–after all, form does follow function.

Serene Modern Style

The soft colors, simple lines, and lack of clutter give the modern style a calming, relaxed vibe, making it an excellent choice for the primary bedroom.

Angular Light Fixtures

Although midcentury modern design is mostly clean and without excessive ornamentation, one exception to that rule is the use of angular or unusual light fixtures, particularly “atomic” styled fixtures, as seen in the beachy modern bedroom from Amy Lau Design shown here.

Minimalist Primary Bedroom

Minimalism is similar to modern design in that it emphasizes a spotless, simple look without a lot of adornment.

Often, midcentury modern furniture fits well into this “less is more” decorating philosophy.

Platform Beds

Simple platform beds are a common sight in the modern bedroom, particularly Scandinavian modern style. Keeping space available under the bed or other furniture contributes to the open space that's so important to this style.

Modern Mix and Match

The 1970s-inspired macrame pillows, along with the soft brown bed linens, add a bit of funky retro style to any modern bedroom.

This design style is open to mixing and matching with other elements, so feel free to play around with patterns, textures, and other decor, like the contemporary painted circle on the wall.

Vertical Touches

Hanging light fixtures break up the mostly horizontal planes of a modern bedroom. This peaceful, beautiful primary bedroom uses copper pendants to great effect. So serene and lovely.

Natural Materials as Decor

Modern style celebrates natural materials, such as wood and stone, as artwork in their own right. Midcentury modern architecture often used wood not just as flooring but also to panel the walls and even the ceiling.

Area Rugs

Although midcentury modern typically is fairly subdued in color, exceptions are the rule when it comes to interior design.

An area rug with fun colors or patterns can change the whole atmosphere of a room, so keep that in mind when selecting one for your floor.

Playful Patterns

Modern styles don't have to be plain or without a pattern–quite the contrary. This stunning modern bedroom proves our point by using smaller designs that are contrasting yet not overbearing.

The neutral polka dot comforter, the different textures of accent pillows, and the decorative pattern on the area rug all bring interest yet keep the room decidedly modern in theme.

Black and White for Bold Contrasts

Modern styles can be subtle, but can also take a bold approach–and what better way to go about it than creating a classic contrast with black and white?

The striking appearance of the black geometric accent wall with the pure white comforter is stunning, and the blanket with the accent pillows helps tie both hues together.

Marvelously Monochromatic

Monochromatic color schemes help unify your entire room with ease and give an air of sophistication. The room shown here leans into a neutral monochrome concept–various shades of gray with additional touches of white.

The gorgeous black and gold global light fixture and golden light sconces on the wall are a flawless addition that adds a dose of industrial to the rest of the room.

Cool and Comfortable

Cool tones are always a safe bet when decorating a modern bedroom, and the black wire lamp creates some contrast against the softer textures on the bed.

Comfort doesn't take priority over function in this style, but the minimalist decor keeps the space from feeling too crowded.

Modern Farmhouse

The farmhouse style is a favorite for many with its rustic and charming appearance. If you feel torn between a contemporary to farmhouse vibe, the good news is you can easily blend the designs together.

Choose antique-style furniture, like the matching accent tables shown in this bedroom. Go with braided textures and fabrics, white walls, and incorporate a neutral color palette of beiges, charcoal gray, and light gray to add a modern feel.

Focus on One Key Piece

Even one simple swap can create the modern atmosphere you're hoping for. An example is to switch out your current light fixture for a modern one–something metallic and geometric that is almost as much an art piece as it is a functional necessity.

The rest of this room includes touches of other characteristics, with the brown, blue, and white color scheme and framed artwork on a white wall, but the overhead light is truly the most obvious modern aspect.

Accent Wall

While the style usually leans towards white or solid color concepts, you can still add some flair by incorporating an accent wall into your bedroom. Selecting a consistent pattern in a darker hue creates a dramatic yet still sophisticated vibe.

Canopy Bed Frame

Canopy bed frames are a perfect modern staple, considering they contribute to the strong and sleek lines popular within the style.

This four-poster bedframe, created with strong wooden beams, draws your eye upwards and helps tie together other decor items, like the bedside tables and wooden photo frames.

California Cool

The sophistication of the modern style and the relaxation of a California coastal theme? Count us in.

To get the look for yourself, gravitate towards ocean and sandy-colored tones that create a "go with the flow" atmosphere, perfect for a bedroom.

However, adding some simple decor options, like the midcentury modern bench at the end of the bed, the patterned accent pillows, and a simple piece of artwork, will elevate the space from becoming a typical coastal theme.

Modern and Glamorous

Creating a modern glam bedroom is absolutely possible, yet there are a few things to keep in mind. Keep your decor items simple and necessary, if possible.

Yet when adding in the other pieces, feel free to experiment with different patterns and concepts to create a unique and elegant space.

The golden bedframe, metallic gold lamps, and leopard print blanket already make the room feel glamorous without seeming overwhelming or too busy.

Comforting and Colorful

Pops of color and a dose of plant life allow this room to feel optimistic and current. The light color choices for the bedspread are a vibrant statement in the otherwise white-focused bedroom.

Open Layout

A simple way to ensure your bedroom has a modern feel is by changing the layout to create plenty of open space. Keeping your furniture to a minimum and any other items out of the way will give the impression of a vast, open space with plenty of possibilities.

We're also a fan of the illuminated ceiling and under the bed giving a subtle futuristic touch.

Sleek, Straight Lines

Regardless of your color scheme or the specific types of decor you choose, sleek and straight lines are ideal within this particular style.

The room shown here highlights this with its diptych over the bed, the square wood accent tables, the horizontal lines found in the fabric headboard, and the diagonal ones found in the area rug.

Almost every aspect of the room points to strong, bold lines that all work well together.

Natural Light is a Must

Rather than relying solely on indoor light fixtures, bringing in as much natural light as possible is ideal. If you have access to large windows, keep them open to allow the sunlight to pour in and give the feeling of a wide-open space.

If you need some privacy, curtains can still be used–just keep them light and easy to move to prevent light from coming through.

Modern and Earthy

This stunning green bedroom combines earthy vibes with modern aesthetics. The sage green walls paired with the brown headboard and neutral sheets and combined with plenty of natural light create a blissful state that will strike the perfect balance between nature-loving and modern concepts.

Ceiling Wallpaper

Wallpaper the headboard wall and ceiling in a large-scale floral print for a bold modern look. Interior designer Alvin Wayne decorated this New York City apartment bedroom like a boutique hotel, adding a wall-to-wall forest green headboard and a pair of curvy armchairs at the foot of the bed to create a seating area.

Black-and-White Photos

Hang black-and-white photos on the wall to complement a modern bedroom with neutral decor. Desiree Burns Interiors painted the walls in light blue-gray to add a hint of soothing color.

Black Accent Wall

A black accent wall will add depth to a small bedroom and works particularly well in a room with abundant natural light.

Interior designer Alvin Wayne paired matte black walls with bright artwork, mirrored side tables, and an upholstered headboard to turn this New York City bedroom into a cozy perch with a skyline view.

Rounded Edges

Give your bedroom a soft modern look by choosing furniture with soft curves. Desiree Burns Interiors paired a modern arched armoire with an extra-deep retro modern armchair and a sculptural mini occasional table just big enough to hold a cup of coffee or a nightcap in this spacious primary bedroom.

Extra-Tall Headboard

In a small bedroom, choose an extra-tall headboard that utilizes vertical space and makes the room feel larger than it is. Interior designer Alvin Wayne added a pair of tall slim mirrors on either side of the headboard to reflect light, and added a whimsical neon sign above as a personal touch that will make the room glow after dark.

Wavy Modern Headboard

Modernize a small bedroom in a traditional home with a statement headboard. Desiree Burns Interiors chose a wavy bed frame upholstered in dark blue velvet and paired it with vibrant jungle-themed bedding for an eclectic look.

Black-and-White Wallpaper

Add movement to a modern bedroom with a giant abstract wallpaper design in shades of black and white, like this space from interior designer Alvin Wayne. Recreate the look on a budget with paint.

Modern Bedside Lighting

Modernize your bedroom by trading traditional table lamps for more contemporary lighting fixtures, like the pair of neon and brass wall sconces in this space from Forbes + Masters.

Large Wall Mirror

Stick to clean lines and simple shapes to create a modern feel in the bedroom. Desiree Burns Interiors chose a coastal palette of blue and white, and hung a simple wall mirror that doubles views and reflects light to give the space a lift.

Roman Black-Out Shades

If your bed is positioned in front of a window, black-out shades are essential. Gray Space Interiors chose a black Roman shade to soften the window that complements the black-and-white palette of the room.

Tonal Pinks

A tonal bedroom that features multiple shades of a single color is a modern way to add excitement to your decor. Emily Henderson Design chose shades of pink that run from blush to vintage rose for a soft and pretty look.

Playful Seating

Bring the charm of a porch swing to a high-rise apartment bedroom by hanging a swing from the ceiling.

This luxurious modern bedroom from interior designer Alvin Wayne comes with a multimillion dollar view, but you can recreate the look in a more modest space with a hanging chair in the corner of the room.

Earth Toned Palette

Decorate your bedroom with an earth-toned palette and plenty of pattern for a modern boho-style feel, like this bedroom from Gray Space Interiors that is finished in shades of green and brown and bronze accents.

Layered Green Accents

Complement a light neutral bedroom with layered green accents for a nature-inspired feel.

Desiree Burns Interiors paired shades of white, pale wood, and rounded furniture and decor with green bedding, wall decor, and plants for a refreshingly modern look.

Modern Moroccan

Give your bedroom a modern Moroccan feel with a mix of finishes, colors, and textures.

Erin Williamson Design clad the walls of this A-frame bedroom with dark wood paneling and patterned wallpaper, adding Moroccan accessories like a handira throw blanket and a carved wooden screen that add texture and personality.

Calming Coastal Colors

Choose cool pale tones of white, sandy beige, and blue to create a breezy coastal feel, like this calming modern bedroom from Desiree Burns Interiors.

Midcentury Modern Furniture

Add authenticity to a midcentury modern bedroom with period furniture in warm wood tones. Erin Williamson Design added tall vintage bedside lamps, a textile wall hanging, a large area rug, and painted the ceiling green for an eclectic look.

Color-Drenched Bedroom

Embrace the clean lines of a modern highrise bedroom by color-drench walls, ceilings, bedding, and drapes in a soothing medium-toned gray. Then wake it up with bold and bright color accents like this space from Mary Patton Design.

Modern Pendant Light

Create a focal point with a modern pendant light, like this space from Forbes + Masters. Be sure to include task lighting like the wall sconces perched above the tall wrap-around headboard for nighttime reading.

Layered Rugs

Create a soothing modern space with pastel tones, like this spacious primary bedroom from Will Brown Interiors that features colorful bedding, wall decor, and a multicolored rug layered over a peach carpet.

Bright Accent Wall

Anchor a contemporary bedroom with bright accent wallpaper on the headboard wall. Interior designer Maite Granda chose a royal blue and white Arabesque pattern, then accented with yellow and gold for contrast in this Florida bedroom.

Bare Walls

Keep walls bare for a minimalist feel in a modern bedroom. Kate Marker Interiors added a large area rug and a cozy bed frame upholstered in bouclé to add softness and comfort.

Colorful Rug

Update a traditional home bedroom with colorful modern decor and accessories. Studio Peake brought this London bedroom into the present with bold red and blue accents like the wavy patterned rug on the floor.

Abstract Wall Mural

An abstract wall mural lends a modern feel to this bedroom from Louis Duncan-He Designs that is decorated in soothing shades of gray and green.

Cobalt Blue Walls

Create a modern feel in your bedroom with a bold color choice on walls and ceiling, like this mesmerizing cobalt blue space from Mary Patton Design.

Shades of Beige

Create a modern feel in a transitional bedroom with shades of beige, cream, and brown. Becca Interiors mixed in wood and woven accents to give this bedroom home office a tranquil feel.

Modern Bedroom Fireplace

A linear fireplace will complement a modern bedroom while adding warmth and ambiance. Jacqueline Blum Design added a double-sided fireplace insert to this primary bedroom decorated with Moroccan design accents. On the other side of the dividing wall, the fireplace is positioned over the bathtub.

Simple Bedding

Streamline your bed linens for a modern feel. Interior designer Alvin Wayne wrapped the bed pillows in a beige coverlet and added a single throw pillow for an uncluttered look.

Modern Rustic

Add a modern rustic feel to a white-walled bedroom with a natural wood accent wall and matching platform bed, like this Seattle space from Arbor & Co. 

Modern Twin Room

Interior designer Alvin Wayne decorated this small twin bedroom with a pair of midcentury modern-style beds, a matching shared nightstand, and patterned textiles for a minimalist feel.

Organic Modern Bedroom

Accent your bedroom with shades of green, textile wall art, and wood tones for an organic modern feel like this space from Emily Henderson Design.

Colorful Bedroom Textiles

Give your bedroom a modern makeover with bright textile accents like floor-to-ceiling curtains.

Studio Peake paired glowing orange drapes with light blue walls and a headboard covered in illustrated fabric to create a modern traditional feel in this London bedroom.

Oversized Art

If your bedroom has slanted ceilings, hang an oversized piece of abstract artwork on a side wall to create an offbeat focal point, like this space from Emily Henderson Design.