10 Primary Bedroom Ideas: Luxe for Less Design Tips
Are you looking for primary bedroom ideas or even master bedroom ideas that look high-end but don’t cost a fortune? You’re in the right place.
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In this post, I’m breaking down a $42,000 designer bedroom and showing you exactly how to recreate the look for under $7,000. Yes, really!
This is part 8 of my Luxe for Less series, where I take stunning high-end interiors and show you how to get the look on a budget. Whether you’re redecorating or just want to elevate your space, you’ll find inspiration and practical tips here.
We’ll walk through each key piece of the bedroom, from beds and rugs to mirrors and lighting. I’ll show you designer picks and budget-friendly alternatives so you can decide where to splurge and where to save.
You’ll also get design rules, pro tips, and links to affordable finds. Ready to turn your bedroom into a designer dream for less? Let’s dive in.
This post is all about primary bedroom ideas.
READ MORE>>> Home Design Inspiration On Inspired Design Talk 2025
Contemporary Bedroom Design
This primary bedroom design is inspired by contemporary style. Contemporary interiors are all about clean lines, open space, and subtle sophistication. They often feature neutral color palettes, minimal ornamentation, and a mix of materials like metal, wood, and plush fabrics.
[PIN IT FOR LATER]
You’ll also notice curved shapes, layered lighting, and a mix of textures that add interest without clutter.
If you love sleek but comfortable design with a modern edge, contemporary might be the perfect style for your bedroom.
1. Upholstered Bed With Curved Headboard
Upholstered beds instantly make a bedroom feel more luxurious. Choose from shapes like wingback, camelback, arched, or curved, and look for detailing like vertical channeling or button tufting, depending on your style.
Fabrics like linen, velvet, boucle, or leather elevate the look but require more care. The designer version in our inspo room is a $4,400 curved Crypton bed from Studio McGee.
Luxe for Less: A velvet curved-back bed from TOV for $1,200 or a similar version from Amazon/Walmart for under $250.
Pro Tip: Skip the box spring for a more modern, lower profile look.
What’s Your Design Style?
Need help finding your style? [Take my free Design Style Quiz.]
2. Contemporary Area Rug
A properly sized rug grounds your space and defines the layout. The pattern also sets the tone—orientals lean traditional, while abstracts feel modern.
High End Rug // Affordable Rug
The high-end version is a 9×12 striped neutral rug from Lulu & Georgia ($3,400).
Luxe for Less: A similar 9×12 Safavieh rug from Amazon for $360.
3. Burl Wood Nightstands
Function matters here. If you have a walk-in closet, a one-drawer nightstand may be enough. If not, go for 2–3 drawers.
Luxe Burl Nightstand // Less Burl Nightsand
The high-end bedroom features $1,550 burl wood nightstands from Studio McGee.
Luxe for Less: Burl wood TOV nightstands for around $400 each.
Pro Tip: Add a basket to the bottom shelf for extra storage.
Floor Plan Tips
Need help planning your layout? [Download my free printable floor plan PDF.]
4. Wood Dresser With Ball Knobs
Look for details like mixed materials, curves, and unique legs that elevate a dresser beyond a basic box.
Luxe Dresser // Affordable Dresser
The designer bedroom version has a grid pattern and open leg base ($3,700).
Luxe for Less: A similar Kelly Clarkson Home dresser from Wayfair for around $1,000.
Quick Fix: Update your current dresser with trendy champagne bronze ball knobs ($20 for a pack of 6).
5. Mirror Over The Dresser
Mirrors add light, function, and designer flair. Use a full-length mirror or a pair above nightstands. If that doesn’t work with your layout, try a bold round mirror over your dresser.
Round Gold Mirror // Affordable Mirror
Designer version: $2,500
Luxe for Less: Oversized round gold mirror on Amazon for under $150.
6. Artwork Over The Bed
Pro Tip: When hanging art above your bed, go for something 50–70% the width of your bed.
Start with 8 inches of space between the bed frame and the art, and adjust a few inches up or down depending on the size of the piece.
Arhaus Artwork // Affordable Sepia Artwork
Designer version: $1,500 sepia print from Arhaus
Luxe for Less: A similar muted-tone canvas for $170.
7. Bedroom Layered Lighting
You’ll never find a designer bedroom without layered lighting—It’s essential for a high-end look.
This means using a combination of:
- Overhead lighting like a chandelier
- Task lighting like table lamps
- Accent lighting like wall sconces
This luxury bedroom we’re recreating has all three.
- Chandelier: $6,000 designer / $400 Walmart dupe
- Lamps: $5,000 each designer / $340 Wayfair dupe
- Sconces: $900 designer / $170 Amazon dupe
Just in lighting alone, we saved over $16,000. Crazy, right?
Yes, there are people who actually spend that much… but we can just make it look like we do—and then put our money to better use. Haha.
8. Window Treatments
Another key detail that makes your bedroom look expensive? Window treatments.
Layering is everything here. Depending on your needs and light control, you can combine Roman shades or blinds with a pair of drapes on either side.
If you need total darkness for better sleep, go for blackout curtains—like the ones in our high-end room from West Elm.
Black Out Curtains // Luxe Gold Rod // Affordable Curtains // Amazon Curtain Rod
West Elm Black Out Curtains: $298/pair.
Luxe for Less: Amazon blackout curtains for $60/pair.
Curtain Hanging Tips:
- Mount rods 1–4” below the ceiling
- Extend rods 8–12” past the frame
- Use 1–2 panels per side for fullness
- Double up for wide windows and sew panels together for a custom look
9. Seating Area
Designer bedrooms often include a seating moment at the foot of the bed or in an empty corner.
Luxe Velvet Chair // Mixed Material Table // TOV Swivel Chair // Metal and Wood Table
Inspo room: Two velvet swivel chairs ($1,400 each) + $1,600 accent table
Luxe for Less: $500 swivel chair + $140 accent table
10. Bed Pillows
Pillows are the easiest way to update your bedroom affordably. Layered pillows add depth and style.
Luxe Velvet Pillow // Long Lumbar Pillow // Walmart Pillow // Lumbar Pillow
Designer setup: Three 24″ velvet pillows + one long lumbar = $600+
Luxe for Less: Similar look for $130.
Quick Tip: For minimalists, one lumbar pillow can still make a statement.
Price Reveal: How Much Did We Save?
The high-end designer room totaled just under $42,000.
The Luxe for Less version? $6,644.
That’s a savings of over $35,000—without sacrificing style.
Final Thoughts
These primary bedroom ideas prove you don’t have to spend a fortune to create a high-end space. With thoughtful planning, smart swaps, and a mix of splurges and saves, you can design a space that feels luxurious and budget-friendly.
Remember to invest in your bed and mattress, then style the rest with affordable finds. It’s all about balance.
I hope this breakdown gave you ideas and confidence to take on your own bedroom project. And if you want step-by-step help designing your dream home, check out my course Designer Home 101.
Thanks for stopping by! Happy Designing!
— Nikki D
This post is all about primary bedroom ideas.
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Last Updated on April 15, 2025 by Nicole DelaCruz
