Attics have the potential to be truly amazing spaces. Yet, all too often, they’re neglected and overlooked as just an extra room in the house. But why should that be? With some special attention, your attic can be an inviting, cozy space—a place where you can relax and entertain, or somewhere to find solace after a long day.
In this article, I’m here to help you take creative control of your attic space. From décor tips and tricks to added features that will make the most of your space, I’ll guide you through some unique decorating ideas and suggestions perfect for transforming your attic into something beautiful.
Before we jump in, let’s take a look at why attics are so great in the first place—and why they deserve a bit more love than usual!
What to Consider With an Attic Space
Getting creative with attic spaces is a great way to add a special touch to your home, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind before delving into some creative decorating ideas.
Firstly, consider the size and height of the space. If it's an oddly shaped, slanted attic, think about how you can make the most out of what's available. Investing in furniture that can be "snugly" fit into limited spaces may be costly but will be worth it in the end.
Secondly, consider ventilation and insulation. Your attic needs proper insulation to make sure that temperature is regulated and that humidity is controlled for both comfort and safety purposes. You should also check if the roof is properly ventilated as air circulation is important for necessary airflow and to prevent any moisture build-up from condensation.
Finally, think about accessibility and practicality when planning your decorating ideas. You could install a staircase from the main floor or create pull-down stairs as an easy way to access your attic space.
Also, consider adding storage solutions to store away items you don't need on hand for everyday use and hidden shelves or cabinets for items that you may want access to more frequently throughout the year. With these considerations in mind, you'll be ready to start dreaming up unique décor ideas for your attic!
Utilize the Sloped Walls
One unique feature of an attic is that the walls are typically sloped due to the roof’s design. While this may seem like a challenge at first, it can actually give you the opportunity to get creative and design a unique space the whole family can enjoy.
Start by analyzing the angles and slopes of the walls—remember, there’s no one size fits all approach when it comes to decorating an attic, so think outside the box. For example, why not install some shelving along one of the sloped walls? You could put books on them, ornaments, framed photos… anything that strikes your fancy!
You could also make use of the sloped walls by installing a unique ladder wall feature. Not only does this add visual interest to your attic but it can also double up as storage. It looks great too! Finally, if you have a large window in your attic, make sure to hang some light curtains or shutters to frame it and bring a warm light into your space.
Working With Limited Window Light
If you are one of the lucky ones who have an attic with windows that let in natural light, then you need to work with it. Natural light is great for brightening up a space and can also be used to create beautiful backdrops for photos or videos.
The best way to make the most of limited window light in your attic is to take advantage of any natural reflections from the walls and ceilings. Adding a few mirrors or hanging a chandelier can help add more light and depth to the room.
If you want to really brighten things up, consider adding some white curtains or sheer drapes that will let plenty of sunlight shine through.
You can also use wall lamps in areas where natural light doesn't reach. A combination of lamps and overhead lighting will create a cozy atmosphere while still making sure there’s plenty of illumination.
For example, try adding warm white accent lamps along with pendant lights on either side of the room. This will help ensure your attic stays well-lit even when the natural daylight fades!
Infuse Color Into an Otherwise Neutral Space
Adding fun colors to your attic is a great way to break up the otherwise neutral space and add character. When adding color, think about furniture and accessories that will create a sense of warmth and personality, such as an armchair or loveseat with a patterned pillow, a throw blanket, or a colorful rug.
You can also spruce up your attic walls with bright accent pieces or framed artwork that adds an extra special touch. And don't forget to add a few pops of color in unexpected places—like wall sconces or hanging light fixtures—to create visual interest and dimension.
Be sure to pay attention to the amount of natural light in the attic when choosing colors for the walls and accessories—bright colors are beautiful but can be overwhelming if the room already has lots of sunlight.
Incorporating Storage Solutions
Are you looking for ways to use your attic space that also provide storage solutions? Well, you're in luck; there are plenty of creative, unique ways to turn your attic into a multi-functional space, while also giving yourself more storage.
Maximizing Space with Beds
You can make the most of a small attic space by installing a bed that doubles as storage. You can go with a Murphy bed if you want something compact, or a daybed if you want something more comfortable. Not only do these beds look great, but they also give you a place to store items like extra linens, duvets, and blankets.
Platform Beds
Platform beds are another great way to incorporate storage into an attic bedroom. The platform base provides space for stashing items like books and sweaters out of sight, while also giving you somewhere comfortable to sleep. Plus, with the extra space underneath the bed frame, you don't need to worry about finding more furniture for the room.
Lofted Beds
If you have extra headroom in your attic bedroom, then a lofted bed might be the perfect solution. It'll free up plenty of floor space—maybe even enough for a seating area or desk—while still providing useful storage underneath and around it since it's elevated off the ground.
No matter what kind of bed style you choose for your attic bedroom, make sure you utilize any available vertical space as well by adding shelves and cabinets above or next to the bed itself—this will give you plenty of room for storing all sorts of items without taking up precious floor space.
Put the Room to Work: Multifunctional Furnishings
Don't let your attic be just a storage area. Get creative, and turn it into a room that you'll use for all sorts of activities. One great way to do this is by investing in multifunctional furnishings.
These types of furniture can be transformed and adjusted to meet multiple needs. Whether you want a comfortable seating area for visitors or enough room for the whole family to gather and watch movies together, these pieces of furniture can do it all!
Ottomans
One type of multifunctional furnishing is an ottoman. This can provide extra seating during family game night, but it can also double as a storage space to keep toys and books when not in use. Many come with removable lids, so you can store items inside and still have a place to put your feet up and relax at the end of the day.
Sofa Beds
Sofa beds are another great option for multifunctional furniture that will go perfectly in your attic. They provide cozy seating during the day, but then can easily be opened up into a bed for overnight guests. These are perfect for small spaces as they don't require additional floor space when being used as a bed.
Convertible Desks
If you need an office space or study area in your attic, why not get something that can double as an occasional dining table?
Convertible desks are designed with small spaces in mind—they have legs that fold away so they don’t take up too much room when not in use, but then expand out so you have plenty of surface area when needed. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you can find what you are looking for.
Conclusion
An attic is a special part of the home, one that can be exquisite and unique, or cozy and inviting. It can be an area of creativity and inspiration, or turn into an oasis of relaxation and leisure.
With a little bit of imagination and creativity, you can transform your attic into something extraordinary and unique. All it takes are a few simple ideas and the right materials and you can create the perfect oasis of your own.
So, get creative and make your attic a special place to call your own!