Time needed: 1 day and 6 hours

This project took us about a day and a half because we had some drywall repair work and paint touch-ups to do. Otherwise, it would have taken way less time!

1. Step 1: Assess and Prepare Your Space

   Reconfirm your closet’s dimensions, ensuring it can comfortably fit your desired mattress size (twin, full, etc.) and allows adequate head clearance for sitting up. Our closet was perfectly deep and wide enough for an extra-long twin mattress, proving to be an ideal candidate for this project. Check for any electrical outlets or switches that might be present and plan around them. Consider if you’ll need to add any new lighting or power sources within the nook. This initial assessment prevents unwelcome surprises down the line.

2. Step 2: Demolition – Clearing the Way

   Time for some careful demolition! Begin by removing the closet door(s) and their hinges. Next, take out any existing closet rods, shelving, and their supporting brackets. Use your screwdriver or electric driver for this. Be mindful of potential damage to the surrounding drywall as you work. Once everything is removed, you’ll be left with a bare closet cavity, ready for its transformation. This step is about creating a clean slate, so take your time to remove all extraneous elements.

3. Step 3: Wall Repairs and Painting for a Flawless Finish

   Often, removing closet components leaves behind holes, cracks, or minor damage on the walls. This is where your repair work comes in. We had a fair amount of repairs to make, and we found DAP Alex Plus Spackling to be incredibly effective. Its unique consistency makes it smoother and easier to apply than many traditional spackle products, almost like a hybrid of caulk and spackle. Apply the spackling with a putty knife, ensuring you fill all holes and smooth out any imperfections. Once dry, don a face mask and sand the repaired areas until they are perfectly smooth and flush with the rest of the wall. This step is crucial for a professional-looking finish. After sanding, wipe away any dust, then prime and paint the entire interior of the closet in your chosen color. A fresh coat of paint will instantly brighten and revitalize the space, making it feel inviting and new. For more detailed drywall repair tips, you can refer to my guide on repairing drywall here.

   

4. Step 4: Installing Your Bed Frame and Mattress

   When it came to Avery’s bed nook, we opted for the easiest route to success. While building a custom, integrated bed frame is an option (fun fact: several years later, we did install DIY built-in bunk beds in this very same closet!), for a quick and budget-friendly solution, a simple metal bed frame works wonders. These frames are typically inexpensive, easy to assemble, and provide robust support. Place your mattress and box spring (if using) onto the frame. To elevate the aesthetic and conceal the metal frame, we added a decorative bed skirt. We also enhanced the comfort and style by attaching a simple DIY upholstered headboard directly to the back wall of the nook (I updated the fabric to match the room’s decor before installation). This step transforms a basic bed into a truly inviting centerpiece for your new nook.

5. Step 5: Adding Curtains for Ultimate Coziness and Privacy

   Curtains are the secret ingredient to creating that quintessential cozy “nook” feeling. They add softness, texture, and visual appeal, instantly transforming the formerly open closet into a private sanctuary. To achieve this look, you’ll need inside mount curtain rod brackets, which are designed to fit perfectly within the door frame. Install these brackets securely, then hang your chosen curtains. We found beautiful, inexpensive blue velvet curtains at IKEA that perfectly complemented the room’s aesthetic. Curtains also offer practical benefits, such as controlling light and providing a sense of enclosure, perfect for a child’s imagination. To complete the look and keep the curtains neatly pulled back when not in use, consider adding DIY curtain tie-backs.

6. Step 6: Personalizing Your Bed Nook with Decor and Lighting

   This final step is where your bed nook truly comes to life and reflects the personality of its occupant. Thoughtful decor and lighting can turn a simple sleeping area into a magical retreat. If space permits, installing picture ledges at the foot or sides of the bed is an excellent idea; they provide perfect, shallow storage for books, small toys, or decorative items without taking up valuable floor space. We utilized picture ledges from Ikea for this purpose. Good lighting is essential for a cozy reading spot. We installed a wall-mounted lamp, which saves space on a nightstand (if you even have room for one!). Beyond functional elements, personalize with decorative accents. Consider hanging DIY art prints, fun pom-poms (like the ones we discovered at the Target Dollar Spot), or string lights to create a warm, inviting glow. Cushions, throws, and favorite stuffed animals will complete the look, making the bed nook a beloved corner of the room.

   

• IKEA Billy Bookcase Hack for Loads of Storage

  Discover how to transform basic IKEA Billy bookcases into stylish, built-in storage solutions that maximize space and add custom flair to any room, perfect for organizing toys and books.

• Fun and Stylish Playroom Décor Ideas & Tips

  Get inspired with creative and practical ideas to design a playroom that’s both fun for kids and stylish for your home, balancing imagination with functionality.

• 28 Dreamy Bedroom Ideas for Girls

  Explore a collection of enchanting bedroom ideas designed to inspire and delight girls of all ages, from whimsical themes to sophisticated spaces.

• How to Decorate Bedroom Doors to Look Like Apartment Doors

  Learn a viral DIY trick to transform ordinary bedroom doors into charming “apartment” doors, adding a unique and playful architectural detail to your hallway.

• 25 Unique Bedroom Ideas for Teen Boys and Girls

  Find inspiration for creating personalized and stylish bedroom retreats that reflect the unique tastes and personalities of teen boys and girls.

• 30 Genius Shared Bedroom Ideas for Kids

  Explore clever and creative solutions for designing shared bedrooms that are functional, harmonious, and fun for multiple children, regardless of space constraints.