Alcove Beds: The Perfect Space-Saving Solution for Small Bedrooms

What’s more exciting than a well-dressed bed? How about a well-dressed bed tucked into a cozy nook — an alcove bed? It might be necessary if you’re looking for the best beds for small spaces, whether it’s a trundle bed, murphy bed, or alcove bed. You might have to do a little more work to make up the bed, but there’s no denying the appeal of these tucked-away sleeping spaces, on a cold winter night or any time of the year. 

The Wall Street Journal explored the merits (and hassles) of the alcove bed, diving into its history and breaking down whether this “architectural womb” was blissful or downright annoying. We’re in the camp of “blissful” because who wouldn’t want to nestle into a cozy sleeping cocoon like the ones we’ve rounded up here?

This alcove in a Brooklyn apartment features elegant wooden trim and a mini library on the wall behind it for a stately, upscale look. 

This peaceful green and pink kids room by @augustjane.interiors perfectly executes a double-level alcove bed that works perfectly as a bunk bed to house two little ones. 

Perhaps it’s not quite large enough for sleeping, but this restful space by @devanedesign perfectly flows in the room, with blue trim that matches nearby furniture. 

This adorably rustic alcove bed by @atlantabartlett proves you don’t need a ton of space to pull off this clever addition. Farmhouse-style doors and crisp, white paint combine with a chic black and white gingham bedspread for a perfectly rustic vibe. 

This nook from Est Living, suitable for lounging or sleeping, comes surrounded by windows and supported by books.

Imagine how calm and restful and cozy you’d feel waking up in this beautifully detailed nook, part of a bedroom designed by architect John B. Murray.

Some might regard the tiny bed alcove in this San Francisco studio as an inconveniently small bedroom, but I prefer to think of it as the sweetest, coziest little spot to tuck in for the night.

From a Swedish cottage spotted on My Scandinavian Home, I would imagine that a little sleeping nook feels especially nice during a cold Nordic winter.

From Alvhem, this little spot is another cozy alcove ‘bedroom’ in a studio apartment. The wallpaper adds a little peek of pattern.

We can’t imagine a better place to go to bed — or wake up — than the little attic bed nook in Erin’s Austin home. (You just might have to watch your head a little in the morning.)

What do you think? Are alcove beds total winners or complete nuisances? Chime in down in the comments!