11 Alcove Bed Ideas for a Cozy and Inviting Space

Blend Everything In

Some alcove beds are the focal point, but consider color drenching if you want a more discreet one. "If your desire is to blend in the built-in, then color washing the alcove with the same wall color and bedding is a nice way to do this," Jones says. "Less contrast means less dimension, so it will not be as noticeable if it is all one color." For a bit more contrast that still feels cohesive, she recommends using a slightly deeper tone of the same paint. 

Add Some Shelving

Incorporating built-in shelving within an alcove allows you to utilize even more space and also transforms the area into a place for reading, says interior designer Maggie Griffin. "Including a niche in the wall for books is a nice touch, and if space allows, a little TV, too," she says.

Carve Out an Arch

An arch instantly adds character and softness to an alcove bed, making the niche feel like an inviting entryway. This design incorporates a long, open arch, making the area feel more spacious. Also note the built-in storage underneath the bed that offers a trundle effect.

Hang Curtains for a Nookish Feel

An inexpensive and simple way to create more of that alcove, nook-like feel is to use curtains versus wood panels. "I've seen curtain panels added around the bed, making it a completely separate space," Jones says. "In kids' rooms, especially, this can be a fun little escape for them."

Consider a Double Bunk

If you've got two kids in one room—or you want to create a guest room with extra bedding—consider building a double bunk alcove bed like this one by dreamed up by Spaces By Sanna. Curtain panels on each bed offer some privacy, while railing keeps the top bunk sleeper safe.

Opt for Scandi-Inspired Minimalism

Sometimes, simplicity is the best approach. For that, consider taking inspiration from Scandinavia, which embraces light wood tones and connection with nature.

Irit Andiroglu, interior architect and designer for Saf Collabs, recommends a neutral color palette and simple bedding and pillows. "Keep decor minimal and uncluttered, using only a few carefully chosen pieces," she says. Here, a single white light fixture and a row of plants are plenty.

Take a Jewel Box Approach

Alcove beds are exciting to decorate, allowing you to turn the space into a jewel box of sorts like the one here created by Jefferson Street Designs. "It is often a place where we can use different paint, wallpaper, or moldings to differentiate it from the rest of the room," says interior designer Julie Jones. "The vertical space becomes an important part of the aesthetic, not just the bedding and flooring."

Install a Skylight

Alcove beds can get a bit dark, so incorporating light is important. You can do this with wall or ceiling-mounted lights or by building the alcove against a window. Another option is to install a skylight, which lets light pour in from above.

Embrace Rustic Charm

A rustic aesthetic works brilliantly for alcove beds, too—especially in forested settings or within sturdy cabins. Andiroglu recommends "using natural, earthy tones and materials like wood, linen, and cotton for this approach. Include cozy elements like a wool throw, a soft rug, and a few vintage-style lanterns or sconces."

Make It Open and Airy

While traditional alcove beds tend to feel enclosed, you can take a more open-air approach to your design. Here, the bed is built into the corner of the bedroom without an overhang. The built-in desk and shelving maximize square footage. 

Build Your Bed Into a Small Recess

For a more modern spin on an alcove bed, consider building only a part of the bed into a recess, as pictured in this design by House of Goyan. The headrest is tucked until the recess for that nook-like feeling while nature-inspired wallpaper and a light fixture continue to draw the eye upward in the arched frame.