How to maximise space for two in shared bedrooms

Affording space is a luxury, especially for first-time buyers and young families. The average house price in the UK was £269,000 at the beginning of 2025 – and more than double that in London! Downsizing by one bedroom is a tried and tested way to save, but sharing can lead to more squabbles, overwhelming clutter and a lack of privacy and personal space. If you're facing these challenges, we're here to help with tried-and-tested shared bedroom ideas.

What are your shared bedroom ideas for small rooms?

The best shared bedroom ideas for small rooms focus on maximising space and light while ensuring privacy. Straightforward design tricks can make the bedroom look and feel bigger, even while dividing the room into two. We've covered general tips and tricks below but remember you can ask our design experts for tailored recommendations.

How to maximise room space

Create zones for each person

Ensure both people have sections of the room exclusively for them. This reaffirms their right to and need for personal space, even within a shared bedroom.

Position beds for privacy, moving them to opposite sides of the room. Placing bedside tables between them creates a physical divide while keeping most of the floor free. It's important to maintain plenty of room for movement to avoid the bedroom feeling cramped. Consider separating sleeping and activity zones as well if space allows. You could have individual play areas in opposite corners, each with a bookshelf and toy box, or arrange two desks side-by-side.

Colour blocking for zoning is a game-changer in shared rooms, establishing defined areas without taking up physical space. Assign each person a colour and use this around their bed and hobby space, by painting the walls or coordinating bedding and accessories.

Use multi-functional, space-saving pieces

One of our top shared bedroom ideas for small rooms is using multi-functional furniture that does the job of two pieces in one. Lofted beds take advantage of vertical space and, depending on the design, have an area for a desk, seating or storage beneath, doubling the facilities in one area. Other multi-functional heroes include window seats and ottomans with hidden storage.

In general, choosing slimline furniture designs will help make the space seem larger than it is.

Maximise every nook and cranny

Saving space doesn't mean leaving the room bare. Your aim should be to make good use of every nook and cranny to help eliminate clutter and overcrowding in the living areas. Look at fitted wardrobes with clever storage options like pull-out racks and corner rails or shelves. You can customise the interior so it's as practical as possible for two people sharing.

Other space-saving heroes include overbed cabinetry as an alternative to a traditional chest of drawers. This is a great option for storing bulky bedding and towels. Floating shelves provide storage and opportunities for decorative displays while keeping the area below clear.

Implement clever design choices

The foundation of how to maximise space in a small bedroom lies in tricking the eye. Establishing the idea of more space will make the room look and feel larger than it is.

Be strategic with basics. Use light, neutral colours on the walls and furniture to make the room feel more expansive, adding dark shades only sparingly for depth and dimension. Keep décor simple and functional, focusing on a few impactful pieces that maintain clean lines. One of our favourite tactics is placing mirrors by natural light sources, like windows, so they subtly enhance the amount of light in the room as well as visually increasing the space.

Book a design visit to discuss shared bedroom ideas

This blog covers the basics of how to divide and conquer for harmonious co-existence. For shared bedroom ideas tailored specifically to your space and needs, book a free design visit with one of our experts. They'll help you map out a plan for a practical and peaceful sleeping space for two.