Top Chicago Bedroom Design Tips for 2026

Chicago Bedroom Remodel

As we look toward 2026, bedroom design in Chicago is evolving to reflect a deeper desire for comfort, sustainability, and personal expression. The modern Chicagoan’s bedroom is becoming a thoughtfully curated space that balances style with function, and innovation with nature.

This shift is grounded in creating an environment that supports well-being, adapts to our changing lifestyles, and reflects our personal values. The upcoming trends are all about making our most private spaces work better for us.

Our Areté designers are here to offer inspiration and practical tips to help you create your perfect oasis.

Embrace Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials

One of the most significant movements in interior design is the growing emphasis on sustainability. Homeowners are increasingly making eco-conscious choices, and this trend is set to become a cornerstone of Chicago bedroom design. It’s about creating beautiful spaces that are also kind to the planet.

Choosing Your Materials

Incorporating sustainable materials into your bedroom can be done in numerous ways. Consider furniture, flooring, and decor made from renewable or recycled sources.

Bamboo: This fast-growing grass is a fantastic alternative to traditional hardwood for flooring and furniture. It’s durable, stylish, and has a minimal environmental footprint.
Recycled Metal Accents: For a touch of modern elegance, consider decor items like lamps, picture frames, or decorative sculptures crafted from recycled metals. These pieces not only add character but also give new life to materials that would otherwise be discarded, showcasing sophisticated sustainability.
Organic Textiles: When it comes to bedding, curtains, and rugs, opt for organic cotton, linen, or hemp. These materials are grown without harmful pesticides, making them healthier for you and the environment. They also offer a soft, natural texture that enhances the room’s comfort.

Making sustainable choices doesn’t mean you have to compromise on luxury or style. Many designers and brands now specialize in high-quality, eco-friendly products that bring sophistication and warmth to any bedroom.

Integrate Smart Home Technology

Technology is seamlessly weaving its way into every aspect of our lives, and the bedroom is no exception. In 2026, smart home integration will move from a luxury feature to a standard for comfort and convenience in Chicago homes. The goal is to create a responsive environment that adapts to your needs with minimal effort.

Enhancing Comfort and Convenience

Imagine waking up to blinds that open automatically to let in the morning sun, or having your lights dim as you get ready for bed. These are just a few examples of how smart technology can elevate your bedroom experience.

Smart Lighting: Our Areté team partners with industry leaders like Barrett Lighting Solutions to bring you unparalleled smart lighting solutions. Imagine effortlessly controlling the color and intensity of your lights directly from your device, crafting the perfect ambiance for any moment. We love the possibility of switching from invigorating morning brightness to a serene to a warm glow for evening relaxation, and we think you will too!
Automated Blinds and Curtains: With products from companies like Lutron, you can schedule your window treatments to open and close at specific times, helping you wake up naturally and ensuring privacy when needed.
Climate Control: Smart thermostats, such as the Nest Thermostat, learn your preferences and adjust the room’s temperature to keep you comfortable while saving energy.

While there is an upfront cost to integrating smart home technology, the long-term benefits of convenience, energy efficiency, and enhanced comfort often make it a worthwhile investment for a modern, functional bedroom.

Adopt Minimalism with a Pop of Color

In our busy city of Chicago, a decluttered, serene bedroom provides a much-needed mental escape. For 2026, this trend evolves beyond stark whites and grays to embrace a more personalized approach. We’re now embracing minimalism with a strategic pop of color!

Striking the Right Balance

This approach is about creating a clean, organized space that still feels vibrant and full of personality. The key is to maintain a simple foundation and use color to create a focal point.

Choose a Bold Accent: A single, bold color can transform a room. Consider painting an accent wall behind your bed in a deep jewel tone like emerald green or sapphire blue.
Incorporate Colorful Decor: If painting a wall feels too permanent, introduce color through textiles and accessories. A vibrant duvet cover, a set of bold throw pillows, or a striking piece of artwork can add personality without overwhelming the space.
Balance with Neutrals: To make your accent color stand out, keep the rest of the room neutral. White, beige, and light gray walls create a calm backdrop that allows your chosen color to take center stage. This balance ensures the room feels both restful and visually interesting.

Design Multi-Functional Spaces

As many Chicagoans know, space is often a premium. This reality has driven the trend of multi-functional design, where every square foot is maximized. The bedroom of 2026 is no longer just for sleeping; it’s a versatile space that can accommodate work, relaxation, and storage.

Maximizing Your Square Footage

Creating a multi-functional bedroom requires clever planning and smart furniture choices.

Convertible Furniture: Invest in pieces that can serve multiple purposes. A stylish Murphy bed can fold away to create an open area for a home office or workout space during the day. An ottoman with built-in storage can hide away extra blankets while providing seating.
Smart Storage Solutions: Utilize vertical space with floor-to-ceiling shelving or built-in wardrobes. Under-bed storage drawers are also perfect for stowing away seasonal clothing or extra linens, keeping the room clutter-free.
Create Distinct Zones: Even in a small room, you can create the illusion of separate zones. Use a rug to define a cozy reading nook in a corner, or position a sleek desk by a window to create a designated workspace that feels separate from your sleeping area.

Connect with Nature Through Biophilic Design

Biophilic design is the practice of incorporating nature into our built environments, and its positive impact on mental health and well-being is well-documented. In 2026, bringing the outdoors in will be a top priority for creating a calming and restorative bedroom sanctuary in Chicago.

Bringing the Outdoors In

There are many simple yet effective ways to introduce biophilic elements into your bedroom.

Add Houseplants: Greenery is the easiest way to connect with nature. Choose low-maintenance plants like snake plants, pothos, or ZZ plants to purify the air and add a touch of life to your space.
Maximize Natural Light: Keep window treatments light and airy to let in as much natural sunlight as possible. Natural light not only makes a space feel larger but also helps regulate our circadian rhythms, leading to better sleep.
Use Natural Materials and Earthy Tones: Incorporate materials like wood, stone, and rattan into your furniture and decor. A color palette inspired by nature can really bring life to your space. Think soft greens, earthy browns, and sandy beiges. It’s all about creating a soothing and grounded atmosphere.

At Areté Renovators, we have seen firsthand how incorporating elements of biophilic design transforms a room from a simple living space into a restorative retreat. If you’re inspired to bring more nature into your home, our team can help you design a space that promotes tranquility and well-being.

Areté Renovators: Designing Your Chicago Bedroom

As we look ahead, the bedroom is becoming a more intentional, personalized, and functional space. The top trends for 2026 (sustainability, smart technology, expressive minimalism, multi-functionality, and biophilic design) are all geared toward creating a room that truly serves you.

Whether you’re planning a complete renovation or just looking to make a few updates, start by thinking about what you need from your space. Do you want a quiet retreat, a productive work zone, or a little of both?

If you’ve answered those questions and you’re ready to remodel your space, give us a call at 773.683.3033 or contact us today to get started on your Chicago bedroom remodel. Our design team is ready to create your personalized luxury space.