Inspiring mezzanine bedroom ideas

7 min read

Last Modified 9 July 2024 First Added 2 July 2024

A mezzanine bedroom sits on a partially open level between two floors. This room style often looks out over a living space, creating a sense of intimacy within the layout.

With a mezzanine, you can add functionality and space. These open rooms are common in barn conversions, urban lofts, and small apartments.

Architect at Oakwrights, Craig Alexander, says:

“A mezzanine bedroom provides a relaxed and intimate living environment which allows for conversations and connections between spaces on different levels, ideal if, for example, people are working from home in separate areas but still want some contact.”

Whether you’re dreaming of a cosy reading nook or aiming for an industrial vibe, dive into the world of mezzanine bedrooms to discover endless styling possibilities…

Design styles for rooms with mezzanines

Mezzanines offer an ideal retreat within your home where you can escape, focus, or simply unwind.

They allow you to create a private corner while retaining an open, airy space. Here are some of our favourite ways to layout a bedroom that features a mezzanine level.

image of a comfy reading nook with pillows and books and sunlight coming in

1. Create a reading nook

Stack your mezzanine with a selection of books to create a mini library.

Consider adding a comfy chair, a footstool and a reading light for a relaxed reading space. To add to the cosiness, adorn the space with soft throws and plush pillows, making it an inviting place to lose yourself in a book.

2. Design a cosy workspace corner

Make use of your mezzanine level to cultivate a healthy work-life balance.

Choose a slim desk and position it so it looks across to your bedroom below. Alternatively, if your mezzanine features a skylight, you can set your desk beneath to benefit from the natural light. Keeping your workstation separate from your bedroom can help you switch off when it’s time to climb into bed.

3. Crafting a welcoming guest room

grey bed with large cushions in a bedroom with an apex roof and skylight

Credit: @no5hillside

Look forward to having guests overnight by setting up a mezzanine guest bedroom.

Like a hotel-style room, you want to keep the space free from unnecessary items so guests can add their belongings when they come over. But don’t forget to add ample storage to home their luggage.

Invest in helpful amenities like fresh towels, shampoo, and conditioner to ensure your guests feel looked after and can relax for the evening.

How can I make a mezzanine room more private?

Although a mezzanine connects two spaces, there are ways to ensure privacy through design and décor.

There are various ways to block the view into the mezzanine level or the bedroom below.

1. Hang curtains

Create a sense of privacy by hanging curtains around the edge of the mezzanine.

Using curtains for seclusion offers the advantage of opening and closing them as needed. Plus, depending on the thickness of the curtains, you can limit the exposure to light, with the option to create a cosy atmosphere.

2. Add freestanding bookcases and shelving units

Close off your mezzanine space through the placement of bookcases and shelving units. A bookcase and shelving unit are great non-permanent ways to create your hideaway.

Whether you opt for dark-coloured shelves for a moody look or a bright white, you can use the shelves to enhance the bedroom décor. Enjoy playing around with the displays; consider which books to place on them, as well as plants, ornaments, and candle holders. By adding these items, you can infuse personality into the room through a variety of colours, textures, and shapes.

For more inspiration, take a look at these shelving ideas.

3. Think frosted glass panelling

For a light and airy feel, opt for frosted glass panelling.

Using frosted glass panelling as a room divider allows light to filter through, maintaining a bright, open atmosphere without compromising privacy. The frosted finish diffuses light beautifully, creating a soft glow that enhances the room’s overall ambience. This is particularly beneficial in mezzanine spaces, where preserving natural light is key to preventing the area from feeling enclosed or cramped.

You could even install frosted glass sliding doors to separate different areas for a sleek, contemporary touch.

4. Create privacy with a low wall

Building a low wall across the edge of a mezzanine is an effective way to ensure privacy.

A small wall can also be a visual separator and reduce noise, helping to make your mezzanine a place of peace. And it can be more than just functional; it can add a stylish touch! Incorporating planters into the design to create a vertical garden would look amazing. This brings a touch of nature indoors and contributes to a calming atmosphere. You could even build a bench into the low wall, providing additional seating and making the mezzanine a perfect spot for reading or lounging.

Mezzanine bedroom ideas

image of a mezzanine bedroom with a low bed frame and skylight in an industrial style home

Credit: @archiproducts

If you’re considering using the mezzanine level as your bedroom, you’ll want to ensure the design perfectly reflects your style.

Get creative with colours, materials, and furniture to create a space that reflects your unique style and makes you feel right at home!

1. Urban loft balcony design

Transform your mezzanine bedroom with a New York loft-inspired makeover by incorporating black metal accents.

Choose a sleek black metal railing for the perimeter and a ladder with dark wooden steps for accessing the mezzanine level.

Extend the industrial theme by installing stylish lighting fixtures on the main room’s ceiling that can be viewed from the mezzanine. Consider exposed light bulbs or hanging fixtures to connect the two spaces seamlessly and enhance the overall aesthetic.

2. A cottage-style hideaway

Add charming features to your mezzanine bedroom to make it feel like a cosy cottage.

Infuse the space with a rustic allure by adding wooden accents, exposed beams, and vintage furnishings.

image of a zoomed in bed frame with a chesterfield style headboard and country interiors like wall panelling and a rustic bedside table

Credit: @home_on_thehill_country_interior

You can pair your bed with textured fabrics like knitted throws and wool blankets to add layers of comfort. Complete this look with personal touches such as handmade arts and crafts, giving it that homely feel.

3. Japandi minimalist mezzanine

If you want to bring the outdoors in, consider the soft hues of Japandi.

This style incorporates natural, earthy colours. Infuse your space with shades of brown, beige, and green, creating a place that extends your feeling of inner tranquillity.

japandi style bed in a japandi bedroom with muted earthy bedding, bed frame, and walls

In a mezzanine bedroom with varying ceiling heights, low furniture plays a key role in maintaining balance. By opting for pieces like low platform beds, floor-level seating, or minimalist coffee tables, you can create a sense of openness and flow within the room. This approach not only accommodates the different ceiling heights but also ensures that the furniture doesn’t overpower the space, allowing the architectural features of the mezzanine to shine.

For additional inspiration, explore the serene allure of Japandi bedrooms.

4. Hotel-like open living

Transform your mezzanine bedroom into a luxurious retreat by investing in high-quality bedding with crisp white linens and sumptuous pillows.

Layering your bed with throws and decorative cushions not only adds style but also creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere unique to your elevated sleeping space. To maintain a minimalist look suitable for a mezzanine, keep decorative items around the bed to a minimum, focusing on essential pieces that enhance the serene ambience.

Consider incorporating dimmable bedside lamps to set the mood. This is especially ideal for mezzanines with low ceilings, as dimmable lighting prevents overpowering the space with brightness and allows for adjustable mood lighting.

How much space do you need for a mezzanine floor?

The most important factor when considering a mezzanine floor is the ceiling height.

Your space must accommodate the space beneath the mezzanine and the height from the mezzanine floor to the ceiling. The recommended height for a mezzanine bedroom is 14 feet (4.2 metres).

Another consideration for a mezzanine bedroom is the size of your bed. Ideally, you want at least 750mm around the bed so it is accessible on all sides. So, depending on whether you have a single, double, king, or super-king-sized bed, you need to factor in how much room you will have around it.

Do you need planning permission to build a mezzanine?

In most cases, you will not need planning permission to build a mezzanine floor.

However, there are some instances where contacting the local authority is advised. Approval will be required if the building needs altering to accommodate the mezzanine. So, if you add or remove any windows or doors, planning permission is essential.

Mezzanine bedroom designs offer a sophisticated solution for maximising space without compromising style. You can personalise your mezzanine to reflect your taste and lifestyle by delving into practical tips and creative ideas. Embrace a world of innovation and versatility, where functionality intertwines with flair.