Starting with a clean design
An attic can give homeowners great opportunities to expand their living space. An attic bedroom is one great way to take advantage of an empty attic. While attics pose many challenges, keeping a few design principles in mind and a free, creative approach will bring out the advantages of the attic space. Design is an artistic endeavor, so think about your composition and let your imagination loose.
Special Challenges
There are two key advantages to think about before you get started. First, there's no need to keep consistency with the style of the rest of the house. So, unless consistency is important to you, wipe the slate clean and think only about the attic space. Second, while odd angles and low ceilings present a challenge, try to see them as interesting architectural features. If you can, don't just avoid these features, use them in your design.
The two big and obvious challenges to think about are size and the aforementioned odd architectural features. Don't let these challenges put you off though. Study the space long and hard, and then tackle those challenges.
Function
For a bedroom, function is perhaps the best way to set a theme for your composition. Think peaceful, calm, and comfortable. The bed comes first in your design plans; consider everything else expendable. Once you've considered the focal point (the place that draws your attention the most) and the location of the bed (and the bed may be your focal point), then think about other furniture. What's the next thing you consider absolutely necessary? Work it in to your design. Don't just keep adding in pieces though. Consider living in the warm with each piece before you decide what else is "necessary." Remember: think peaceful, calm, and comfortable. Making a tight space even tighter won't help your composition. Allow for a lot of breathing room. Some thoughts about proportion will help.
Proportion
"Proportion" refers to much room a person feels they have in a room. Consider the position of each piece relative to the walls, ceiling, and to each other piece. What arrangement gives a feel of more space? Try a few either on graph paper (with the room drawn in proportion) or in the actual space. Mirrors can help create the illusion of space as well as soften or cover up unworkable corners or unattractive features. A large, full length mirror, leaned against the wall can do a lot for the room.
If you're handy, consider building custom pieces. Shelves or nightstands might be easy installed. Even if you're not handy, wall shelving units are simple to install. They can save space, as well as create interest and variety.
Color
You may already know this, but it bears repeating. Light colors create a sense of space. If you can't live with a nice eggshell white, consider a light blue or green. Avoid colors that excite like red, yellow, or orange. All great colors; for another room.
Still, painting one wall with a pleasant, dark color can actually help along a sense of space. This is a common design trick, typically done with a soothing brown or rich gray.
Again, this is a creative effort. Brainstorm for ideas. Have fun. Then get a good night's sleep.
Tags: think about, your composition, your design, , attic space, calm comfortable, each piece