This bedroom makeover was part of a full bedroom and ensuite bathroom transformation I helped design for my aunt and uncle. They wanted a space that felt calm, functional, and refreshed — something that reflected the beautiful lake views outside their window while still feeling timeless and cozy.
If you’re looking for an idea for a bedroom makeover that doesn’t require replacing everything, this project is a great example of how thoughtful design choices, subtle blue decor bedroom ideas, and a few strategic updates can completely transform a space.
While a contractor handled the trim and accent wall, I helped with the overall bedroom design — from paint colours and furniture selections to curtains, lighting, and final styling. So let's get into it!
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bedroom makeover: the before
Before the makeover, the bedroom felt dark, dull, and lacked cohesion. The layout worked, but the finishes didn’t reflect how peaceful and inviting the space could be.
The main goals for this bedroom makeover were:
- Create a calm, lake-inspired color palette
- Add architectural interest without overpowering the room
- Incorporate blue decor bedroom ideas in a subtle, timeless way
- Improve storage and functionality
- Achieve a layered, designer look on a reasonable budget
bedroom makeover: walls and trim
We began by updating the trim throughout the room and adding a board-and-batten accent wall behind the bed. To keep the space feeling cohesive and bright, we painted the walls, trim, and accent wall all the same color: Alabaster by Sherwin-Williams. If you'd like a step by step guide on how to do a board-and-batten accent wall you can check out my detailed tutorial here.
Although blue was a major inspiration for this bedroom makeover, we intentionally avoided using it on permanent elements like walls. Instead, we brought blue in through decor, textiles, and accent pieces, which keeps the room flexible over time. We wanted to keep things bright and neutral but bring in subtle blue accents.
furniture upgrade
One of the biggest functional upgrades was replacing the bed frame with one that has built-in storage underneath. It fits the room better visually and adds much-needed storage without additional furniture.
The dresser and bedside tables were already owned, and keeping them helped balance the budget while still allowing for a noticeable transformation — a great reminder that a successful bedroom makeover doesn’t mean starting from scratch.
upgrade double closet doors
I saw the double closet doors as an opportunity to become a focal point in the room. The before and after is a crazy transformation and shows the power of small tweaks!
We replaced the doors with modern bi-fold doors as we needed to preserve space. We painted the interior doors blue and added brass closet door handles from Amazon. The contrast between the soft blue closet doors and the warm brass hardware adds interest while still feeling classic. This was a very affordable upgrade and just by painting and adding interesting hardware it creates a high-end look.
This simple update completely changed the look of the double closet doors and made them feel custom rather than builder-grade.
triple Pinch pleat Curtains
The curtains play a huge role in this bedroom makeover. I truly feel these are the main focal point as it is the first thing you see when you walk into the room. This bedroom has two windows on the wall and orginally my aunt had a curtain hanging on the outside of each window and did not like the awkward gap between the two. I felt adding a third panel in the center would tie everything together and look more intentional and high end.
We chose pinch pleat curtains from Two Pages Curtains, which instantly give the room a tailored, high-end feel.
These are triple pleat curtains, also commonly referred to as triple pinch pleat curtains, and they’re one of my favorite ways to elevate a bedroom without custom pricing.
Why pinch pleat curtains work so well:
- They create structured, elegant folds
- They add height and make ceilings feel taller
- They give a designer look without feeling heavy
We selected a soft blue tone called Winter Sky, which ties beautifully into the lake-inspired palette. Because the windows are separate, we added a third curtain panel in the center — a simple trick that visually turns two windows into one larger feature.
If you’re considering pinch pleat curtains for your own bedroom makeover, this is an easy way to make the space feel larger and more intentional. You can check out my blog post on how to properly hang your curtains and measure for a high-end perfect fit. You can also use my code MEGANDAUPHINEE to save 24-26% off your purchase here!
bedroom makeover: final touches
Layering is key when styling a bed, especially if you want a polished but relaxed look.
Here’s how we styled this one:
- Start with a fitted sheet wrapped around the mattress
- Add an extra blanket underneath the duvet for warmth
- Fold the duvet halfway back, then slightly forward to create volume
- Stack sleeping pillows flat, not upright
- Layer four to five throw pillows, staggered rather than straight back
- Finish with a lumbar pillow for pattern and contrast
We tied in blue decor bedroom ideas through the pillows, added a floral lumbar pillow for pattern, and grounded the space with a brown waffle blanket for warmth and texture.
We added wall sconces from Amazon on either side of the bed, freeing up nightstand space and adding a custom feel. Artwork will eventually be added above the bed, but even without it, the room feels complete thanks to the layers of texture and color.
We also added a standing arch mirror in the corner which is functional and beautiful.
Above the dresser we added a gallery wall of personal photos. We plan to add some more decor on the nightstands and dresser as well.
final bedroom makeover
This bedroom makeover feels calm, intentional, and inviting — a perfect balance of warm neutrals and soft blue accents. By keeping the walls light, upgrading details like the double closet doors, incorporating pinch pleat curtains, and layering decor thoughtfully, the space now feels elevated without feeling overdone.
If you’re searching for an idea for a bedroom makeover that blends function, comfort, and timeless design, this transformation is proof that small, well-planned changes can make a huge impact.
If you loved this bedroom makeover and looking for more inspiration you can check out my bedroom makeover here!
