A basement bedroom can be a dismal, claustrophobic space. With the right decorating techniques, you can transform even the darkest basement bedroom into a space that you'll be delighted to spend time in. You'll need to prioritize and eliminate clutter in order to get the spacious look that will make your bedroom a pleasant environment. Add in a good color scheme and lighting, and you'll forget that the room is located in the basement.

Instructions
1. Choose a theme for your basement bedroom. Do you want a romantic hideaway? A sleek modernist space? Keep your decision in mind as you purchase décor for your bedroom. A theme will make the most of your space by unifying it.

2. Consider creating a monochromatic color scheme comprised primarily of colors at the light end of the spectrum. This will help the lines of your room flow, and reduce any tendency towards a "blocky" cluttered look.

3. Paint the bedroom a light color. Avoid wallpaper with busy patterns. Light colors will open up the room, making it appear both lighter and more spacious. If you are a talented painter, or have the resources to hire one, paint a trompe d'oeil on one wall. According to the Royal National Theatre, "Trompe d'oeil uses techniques of light, shadow and texture to fool the eye into thinking a painting is three dimensional." This technique can give your bedroom a commodious, luxurious feel, transporting you into the painted scene.

4. Choose artwork for your room carefully. Hang one focal piece or two or three small pieces of art in a grouping. Consider your décor and color scheme when choosing art that will be a complement to your sleeping space.

5. Create a faux window. Hang a curtain rod in the location where you'd like a window, and hang curtains. No one but you will ever know there is no window behind the curtains, and the "window" can make your basement bedroom feel larger.

6. Select a large light-colored rug that matches your theme. Place it underneath your bed, allowing at least a foot of the edge to show. A rug gives your bedroom a cohesive look, but won't give your room a "blocky" feel as it is integrated with the bed.

7. Purchase lighting that uses full-spectrum bulbs. Most basements have either no windows or small windows that are located at the top of the room, resulting in a deficit of natural light. Full-spectrum bulbs will give your basement bedroom a more cheerful appearance.
By Michelle Martin