I’m making plans to spruce up my bedroom a bit and one of the main things I want to target is the area above my bed head. I don’t have a headboard and have been deliberating (for yyyears really…sigh overthinker much?) whether I should DIY a headboard or use large artwork or other decorative options instead as a headboard alternative.
So today, I’m rounding up some no headboard ideas for your bedroom that you can easily implement.
I’m crushing on quite a few of these ideas.
(This post contains some affiliate links. See my full disclosure policy here)
13 Ideas for Styling a Bed with No Headboard
1. Create a Feature Wall with Wallpaper or a Wall Mural
These examples show how a full/sectioned accent wall using wallpaper, stencils or contact paper can easily replace the need for a headboard.
This wall mural would make the bedroom a calming oasis.
If you’re looking for some affordable easy-to-install wallpaper options for renters, check out these peel and stick wallpapers on Amazon.
These mural wallpapers are also gorgeous but do require some type of adhesive, which may require you to be creative if you’re renting.
I absolutely LOVE this stunning floral wallpaper as well as this black and white floral wallpaper a backdrop for the bed. So pretty and feminine!
2. Use a Giant Macrame Wall Hanging
These are really trending right now and this one makes a gorgeous statement against the navy walls.
3. Hang Tapestry behind the bed
An alternative of the wall mural is to hang a large piece of tapestry behind the bed. This idea also allows you to switch up your decor more easily.
I really like this look from Urban Outfitters.
The one above is no longer available but you can also shop for tapestries here.
4. Paint an Accent Wall in One Colour
This is not a new idea but, using just paint, you can make a bold statement like this black accent wall. I like how the stark contrast looks so if you’re not afraid of high contrast looks (or a wall of black paint), this could be a great option.
5. Create a Colour-blocked Accent Wall
Take things up a notch by using two colours for a colour-blocked accent wall. This one plays off of the asymmetry in the room and is a great option if your bed isn’t centered on the wall.
6. Frame the Bedhead with a Painted Circle
A can of paint and some simple materials are all that’s needed to recreate this look. I really love the idea of a painted circle behind the bed. (Find an easy YouTube tutorial here)
Although this other example has a headboard, you can easily picture the room without it as the pink circle can stand on its own.
7. Make a Woven Headboard (using placemats and a table runner)
Ohhh this is a FAB idea!! Use placemats and a table runner to recreate this boho-chic look in no time at all. Check out the tutorial via the link below the pic.
8. Use Curtains and Fairy lights for a dreamy backdrop
I love the dreamy effect this look creates using some curtain fairy lights and sheer fabric. Check out the link below photo for Mr. Kate’s full tutorial.
9. Use a Large Piece of Artwork
Artwork and wall decor centered above the bed head are popular options for headboard alternatives. One large framed piece of art can be used to make a statement.
Btw, if you’re looking for affordable artwork but not into DIYing, Society 6 has a huge collection of art prints for under $20.
In this example from Mr. Kate, the artwork is placed above the side of the bed rather than the head. I loved the entire room makeover actually since has the popular “hygge” vibe.
10. Use a couple of large framed prints
This idea works really well for word and typography prints.
11. Create an entire gallery wall above the bedhead
Dig out some prints buried in your phone or laptop or DIY some simple art and create a gorgeous gallery wall like this.
12. Place a shelf (or more) above the bed
In a small space, this is also a great storage hack since the shelf can be used to display and store personal items. Add some hanging plants for a chic boho vibe.
I’m not fully comfortable with the idea of a shelf above my head (or the picture frames), particularly since I live in an earthquake-prone country, but I do like how they look.
13. Nothing behind the bed
This final example shows that depending on how you decorate the rest of the room, having nothing at the head of your bed actually works.
In this photo, the artwork placed above the side table rather than above the centre of the bed provides enough visual interest in the space. The minimalistic look of the room is also amplified.
Here’s another angle of the room.
So many great ideas, don’t you think?
Looking for even more bedroom ideas? Check out my Bedroom Pinterest board for some inspiration.
Now tell me, what’s your take on the no headboard vs headboard scenario? Which of these no headboard ideas is your favourite look?
Feel free to share on Pinterest!
Wow, these are such great ideas! Honestly I’ve been doing quite a bit of research for no-headboard ideas and this by far has the best round up of suggestions and a few I hadn’t seen before. Thanks!
Marisa, thanks so much for your comment!! That’s exactly what I was hoping to achieve with this round-up. I’m super glad it was helpful for you.
I’ve got an oversized fan over my bed and it really fits the space. I’ve noticed this trend on urban outfitters recently too!!
Ohhh yes, those fans are trending. Great idea. I think they should also be easy to make so I’ll prob try a DIY.
Where to find the maps, map pieces? Creative.
Hi GG. Not sure where you’re located but I found this listing on etsy: https://www.etsy.com/listing/584246655/gold-world-map-wall-art-sticker-modern. I think I’m doing to try to DIY one. Love them.
I love this! Thanks, I enjoyed going through this
Awww, I’m glad to hear!
I like the dfferent takes on the wall space Nickesh. I dont have a headboard but I’ve decorated my space with just 3 small floating shelves and some frames. Because i fear the occurence of an earthquake i usually move the candles i have on the shelves during the night and replace them during the day.
Thanks Tiffany! Glad you liked them. The floating shelves are a great idea. I’m with you on that earthquake story.
I have always had a headboard, but I love the looks without one!
Yes! Glad to hear. 😀 I got so much inspiration for my room from these looks.