Beyond the Bed

By - Ray Erens

5 Clever Bedroom Wall Art Ideas for Empty Walls and Reading Nooks

When decorating a bedroom, the wall above the bed often gets all the attention. But what about the other walls? The often-overlooked spaces beside a dresser, next to a window, or within a cozy reading nook offer incredible potential to enhance your bedroom’s aesthetics and functionality. Maximizing these areas with thoughtful art placement can truly complete your sanctuary.


This guide explores five clever bedroom wall art ideas for those "other" walls, transforming neglected corners into intentional design statements. You'll learn how to use art to define zones, add depth, and infuse personality into every inch of your personal haven.

1. Elevating the Dresser Wall: A Balanced Statement


The wall above your dresser or chest of drawers is a prime candidate for a beautiful art display. This area often acts as a secondary focal point, especially if it’s opposite your bed. The principles here are similar to placing art above the bed but with a slightly different scale consideration.

  • Sizing: Aim for art that is roughly two-thirds to three-quarters the width of the dresser. This proportion creates balance and ensures the art doesn't overwhelm the furniture or look too small.
  • Placement: Hang the art so the bottom edge is 6-10 inches above the top of the dresser. If you have a lamp or decorative objects on the dresser, ensure the art is high enough not to interfere with them visually.
  • Grouping: A single, impactful horizontal piece works beautifully here. Alternatively, a pair of vertical prints or a small gallery of three pieces can create an engaging cluster. For an elegant pair, consider these complementary botanical prints from TruExpressionsArtCo, perfect for a dresser wall.

Bedroom wall art ideas for above a dresser, showing a perfectly sized horizontal abstract print.

2. Defining a Reading Nook: Cozy Corners with Character

If you're lucky enough to have a dedicated reading chair or a small bench in your bedroom, art is essential for defining this "zone" within the larger room. Art here should enhance the cozy, intimate feel.

  • Above the Chair: A single medium-sized print hung directly above the reading chair at a comfortable eye-level (when seated) creates a personal backdrop.
  • Adjacent Wall: For a larger nook, consider a small, tightly curated gallery of 2-3 pieces on the adjacent wall. These could be smaller, more intricate works that invite closer inspection.
  • Theme: Choose art that evokes a sense of peace or intellectual curiosity – perhaps a calming landscape, an inspirational quote, or a detailed illustration.

Windows are natural focal points, but the wall space on either side is often underutilized. Placing art here can balance the window, add warmth, and pull the eye across the wall.

  • Symmetry is Key: For a classic look, hang identical pieces of art (or frames with similar dimensions) on either side of the window. This creates a sense of order and elegance.
  • Size & Placement: The art should be proportional to the window's width. Hang it so the top of the frame aligns roughly with the top of the window frame or curtain rod for a cohesive line.
  • Connecting Elements: You can use curtains or drapes to visually connect the art pieces to the window, creating a unified display.
Symmetrical bedroom wall art ideas flanking a window for a balanced look.

4. Enhancing the Entry Wall: A Welcoming Introduction

The wall you see immediately upon entering your bedroom often sets the first impression. Make it count with a thoughtful art arrangement.

Corners are notoriously tricky, but with the right bedroom wall art ideas, they can become charming focal points.

  • Layered Art (on shelves): Install a small floating shelf in a corner and lean 2-3 pieces of art of varying sizes. This adds depth and visual interest without needing to hang directly in the corner. You can mix prints with small decorative objects.
  • Vertical Series: If you have two walls meeting in a corner, consider hanging a series of 2-3 vertically stacked, identical prints on one of the walls, drawing the eye upwards. This works especially well in rooms with high ceilings.

Tips for All "Other" Walls

  • Consider the View: Think about what you see from different points in the room. Does the art make sense from the bed, from the doorway, or from your reading nook?

  • Lighting: Wall sconces or picture lights can dramatically enhance art on these secondary walls, drawing attention and creating ambiance.

  • Personal Touch: Don't be afraid to mix prints with personal photos or mementos. These are your private spaces, so let them reflect you.

Every wall in your bedroom is an opportunity to express your style and enhance your comfort. By expanding your horizons beyond the bed, you unlock a world of possibilities for truly personalized and beautiful bedroom wall art ideas.

Discover the perfect pieces for every wall in your bedroom at TruExpressionsArtCo.
Cozy bedroom wall art ideas defining a reading nook with a quote print and botanical gallery.

Download Our FREE Wall Styling Guide

Thanks for downloading my FREE Wall Art Styling Guide. I trust you will find it insightful and valuable.


NB: You will receive an email with the Link for you to download the guide from my Google Drive.

Ray Erens