Introduction to Attic Bedroom Transformations

Contents

Introduction to Attic Bedroom Transformations

Maximizing Your Attic Space

Often ignored, the attic offers significant potential for creative use. With features like sloped ceilings and natural light from skylights, your attic can be transformed into a functional and cozy bedroom.

Benefits of Converting Your Attic into a Bedroom

Maximizing your home’s space efficiently adds significant value. Transforming an attic into a bedroom not only provides additional living space but also offers privacy and a quiet escape from the household’s hustle and bustle. It’s an investment that enhances both your home’s functionality and its market appeal.

Planning Your Attic Bedroom Renovation

Planning Your Attic Bedroom Renovation

Assessing Your Attic’s Layout and Structural Integrity

Before focusing on aesthetics, thoroughly evaluate your attic’s layout and structural integrity. This step ensures the space can safely support your renovation plans. Check for sufficient headroom, beam placements, and the condition of existing structures. Identify potential challenges early, such as the need for extra insulation or reinforcing floor joists to support the new load.

Navigating Building Codes and Permits

  • Understanding local building codes is crucial. These rules will affect many aspects of your design, from minimum ceiling height to emergency exit requirements.
  • Obtaining the necessary permits before starting work ensures your project is legal and meets local safety standards.

Setting a Budget and Timeline for Your Project

Creating a clear budget and timeline is essential for a smooth renovation. Allocate funds carefully, accounting for both expected costs and a contingency for unexpected expenses. Establishing a realistic timeline helps manage your expectations and those of any hired professionals. This planning will ensure a successful transformation of your attic into a functional bedroom.

Design Principles for Attic Bedrooms

Design Principles for Attic Bedrooms

Maximizing Space in Limited Areas

In an attic bedroom, every square inch is valuable. Use smart storage solutions like built-in drawers and multifunctional furniture. Choose custom pieces that fit into tight corners and under eaves to maximize storage without adding clutter.

Incorporating Natural Light and Ventilation

  • Utilize natural light to make your attic feel more spacious and welcoming. Install skylights or dormer windows to increase brightness and improve air circulation.
  • Place windows strategically to ensure a consistent flow of fresh air, significantly enhancing the space’s atmosphere.

Choosing the Right Color Palette and Lighting

Light colors are ideal for small spaces. Soft whites or pastels can make the attic look larger and brighter. Pair these with smart lighting choices—such as layered lighting with LEDs and soft ambient fixtures—to create a calm and spacious environment. This practical approach to color and lighting will transform your attic from a storage area into a comfortable retreat.

Choosing Materials and Furniture for Longevity and Style

Choosing Materials and Furniture for Longevity and Style

Flooring Options: Pros and Cons

  • Hardwood: Provides warmth and a classic appearance. It is prone to moisture damage and may need more upkeep.
  • Laminate: Imitates wood and is more durable. It is cheaper but might not increase resale value like hardwood.
  • Carpet: Offers insulation and comfort, perfect for bedrooms. However, it can stain easily and may not last as long.

Selecting Furniture that Fits the Attic Layout

Choosing furniture for an attic bedroom requires creativity. Opt for pieces that are versatile and can be easily positioned in the unique angles and corners of the space. Consider multifunctional furniture like ottomans with storage or beds with built-in drawers to maximize space efficiency.

Durable and Stylish Materials for Attic Use

When choosing materials for your attic bedroom, focus on both durability and style. Opt for treated fabrics that resist fading for window treatments and seating. For decor, use metals or composites that are long-lasting and have a modern look. These choices ensure your attic space is both attractive and practical.

Hiring Professionals vs. DIY: What You Need to Know

Hiring Professionals vs. DIY: What You Need to Know

When to Hire a Contractor

Deciding to hire a contractor for your attic renovation depends on the project’s complexity. For structural changes, like modifying trusses or installing large skylights, professional expertise is essential. Contractors handle building codes efficiently and anticipate potential issues, ensuring a smooth attic transformation.

DIY Tips for the Handy Homeowner

  • For tasks like painting or minor decor changes, doing it yourself can save money and be satisfying.
  • Make sure you have the right tools and safety gear, and check out online tutorials or local workshops for help.

Safety Considerations for Attic Renovation

Whether you opt for DIY or hire a professional, safety is crucial. Verify that the attic floor can handle the extra weight, and always follow local fire safety regulations, particularly concerning escape routes and smoke detectors. When uncertain, consulting a professional can ensure your home and family’s safety.

Attic Bedroom Design Ideas

Cozy Attic Bedroom Retreats with Wall-to-Wall Carpet Flooring

Imagine entering your attic bedroom and feeling the luxurious comfort of wall-to-wall carpeting. This flooring choice is not just visually appealing; it’s also practical. The plush carpet fibers provide a soft touch for your feet, offering insulation and a quiet atmosphere ideal for an attic retreat.

Color is crucial in setting the room’s mood. Choose soothing neutrals for a calm haven or bold hues to add vibrancy and character. The right shade can make your space feel larger or cozier, depending on your preference.

Texture matters too. Thick-pile carpets are perfect for those lazy mornings in bed, offering a soft feel. Alternatively, low-pile carpets with geometric patterns add a modern touch, enhancing visual interest without overwhelming the room’s design.

Explore a gallery of styles that showcase the impact of carpeting. From the serene elegance of Nikki Dalzell’s designs to the sleek modernity of Brookfieldhomex, the innovative solutions of Djmoore Lofts, and the quaint charm of Renovatingbungalow, these examples show how carpet can enhance your decor and comfort in your attic retreat.

Illuminate Your Attic Bedroom with Skylight Windows

Enhance your attic bedroom with skylight windows. These windows not only brighten your space but also provide a view of the sky, making your room more serene. Imagine enjoying the sun’s rays or the sound of rain from your own rooftop window.

Skylight designs significantly impact the room’s ambiance. A horizontal skylight can make the room feel larger, while square skylights create interesting light patterns. They serve as natural canvases, showcasing the sky’s changing scenery.

Skylights influence the room’s mood. They are ideal for enjoying natural daylight or the early morning light. The result is a space that feels both expansive and cozy, connecting you to the sky with every glance.

Enliven Your Attic Bedroom with Artistic Flair

Transform your attic bedroom with wall art that tells your story. In this space, art is more than decoration; it interacts with the room and your personality. Imagine a bohemian style with eclectic tapestries that add warmth and character.

Incorporate Locust Street Market-inspired pieces to blend repurposed materials with sustainability, creating unique stories with each item. For a youthful touch, Our Revel Project offers vibrant murals that serve as a canvas for dreams and play.

Herzenstimme’s boho chic insights highlight the tactile nature of art. Think woven fabrics and wooden accents that invite touch and create a sensory experience. Each piece of art inspires and transforms your attic into a personalized space.

Illuminate Your Attic Bedroom with Pendant Lights

Transform your attic bedroom with pendant lights that offer both style and functionality. These fixtures not only brighten the space but also add a unique design element to your room. Imagine a Boho-inspired area where pendant lights hang like elegant charms, casting a warm glow over the room’s textures and colors.

For those who prefer a minimalist approach, pendant lights provide a perfect blend of form and function. They offer focused lighting, ideal for a reading nook or a quiet workspace. In children’s and teens’ rooms, these lights can be playful and imaginative, providing essential illumination for both study and play.

Explore a variety of designs, from industrial chic to rustic charm. Your attic bedroom’s pendant light is more than just a fixture; it’s a key component of your decor.

Attic Floor Bed: A Cozy Nook in the Heights

Step into a serene space where a floor bed in your attic turns the area into a cozy retreat. This design choice maximizes space and creates a personal corner for relaxation. A mattress on the floor complements the attic’s unique shape, making the space feel custom-designed.

The appeal lies in the details—a low bed fits well with angled ceilings, providing a streamlined look that uses every inch. Whether you prefer the clean look of crisp linens or a mix of cushions and throws, these beds make attics stylish hideaways. To enhance functionality without losing style:

  • Smart Storage: Choose built-in compartments or sleek floating shelves.
  • Textural Contrast: Combine materials like wood and fabric for added depth.
  • Lighting: Use soft, ambient fixtures to highlight the bed area.

Explore these top 75 attic bedroom ideas and let the concept of a floor bed inspire your design. It celebrates your home’s unique architecture and makes the most of its intimate spaces.

Boho-Attic-Bedroom-Ideas-motkovo
Boho-Attic-Bedroom-Ideas-motkovo

Textured Accent Walls in Attic Bedrooms

Transform your attic bedroom with a textured accent wall. It’s more than just a wall—it’s a stylish and sensory feature. Texture adds depth, turning flat surfaces into engaging visual and tactile experiences.

Select materials thoughtfully. Contrast matters; pair the textured wall with the room’s smooth surfaces. Consider 3D panels for dynamic shadows or hand-troweled plaster for a crafted look.

These walls enhance more than aesthetics. They draw attention to architectural features like angled ceilings and help muffle sound, creating a peaceful environment.

  • Embrace Elegance: Choose stone textures for a sophisticated touch.
  • Warmth of Wood: Use reclaimed wood panels for a cozy feel.
  • Artisanal Allure: Opt for plaster finishes for a handcrafted appearance.

Transform Your Attic with Bay Window Seating

Imagine a sanctuary in the eaves, where the attic bedroom becomes more than just a sleeping quarter—it’s a bespoke haven. Bay window seating is not just a seat; it’s a blend of elegance and practicality, a sunlit spot for relaxation.

Customize your alcove with a cushioned bench or a built-in daybed, each tailored to your style. For a rustic touch, natural wood finishes add warmth. Decorate with pillows and throws to create a cozy retreat or a perfect reading nook.

Your bay window can become the highlight of your attic space, with designs ranging from minimalist to bohemian. Beneath the seating, smart storage solutions are ideal for stowing away treasures or seasonal items.

Let the light pour in, framing your attic nook with beauty and purpose.

Incorporating Plants into Your Attic Bedroom Design

Awaken to a green retreat in your attic bedroom, where plants bring life to every corner. The slanted walls and skylights of attic bedrooms create an ideal setting for a botanical haven. Imagine the morning light filtering through foliage, casting calming shadows across your space.

Picture robust snake plants and evergreen pothos in a *Boys Attic Bedroom Ideas Myhomeofzodiac* setup, requiring minimal care while providing clean air and vitality. In a *Rustic Attic Bedroom*, ivies drape over wooden beams, adding a touch of nature. For a touch of elegance, the *Girls Attic Bedroom Ideas Wakeupinworthing* can be transformed into a pastel paradise with blooming florals.

Each plant is more than decor; it’s a piece of nature, chosen to complement your room’s character. Whether it’s a single statement plant or a collection of greenery, these living accents enhance the room’s atmosphere.

White Attic Bedroom: A Canvas of Serenity

Step into a space where calm prevails, and the simplicity of white transforms an attic into a serene retreat. The white attic bedroom is not just a room—it’s a canvas of tranquility. Light enhances the feeling of space within the cozy angles of your home’s highest point.

A white palette allows textures and accents to stand out. Picture the softness of luxurious linens, the rustic charm of exposed wooden beams, and the allure of antique treasures—all highlighted against the peaceful backdrop of white.

Observe the harmony of design elements: Emcopsey’s DIY charm, Fadestblue’s sleek minimalism, Houseoftealdreams’ inviting alcove, and Djmoore Lofts’ spirited flair. These white attic bedrooms blend timeless and contemporary styles, inviting you to reimagine your space as both expansive and cozy.

Let the following ideas guide you in creating an attic bedroom that showcases white’s transformative power.

Enrich Your Attic Bedroom with a Cozy Area Rug

Step into your attic bedroom and let a carefully chosen area rug transform the space into a haven of comfort. These rugs do more than just soothe your feet; they define zones, creating an intimate and organized retreat. A plush shag rug under the bed offers a soft landing for your morning, while a sleek, geometric design can guide your steps from a cozy reading nook to a focused workspace.

Envision a hand-woven masterpiece that not only fits the unique geometry of your attic but also enhances it. Texture, color, and pattern come together to elevate the room’s ambiance, combining form with function. Textured rugs add dimension, and lighter shades can give the illusion of more space, making even the coziest attic feel larger.

By introducing an area rug into your attic bedroom, you’re not just decorating a space—you’re curating an experience.

  • Define Zones Use rugs to mark out a reading corner, a sleeping area, or a workspace.
  • Enhance Comfort Choose a rug that offers a plush step and adds warmth to the room.
  • Elevate Style Select designs that complement the attic’s architecture and your personal taste.

Embrace Rustic Charm with Wood Pallet Beds in Attic Bedrooms

Transform your attic into a serene retreat with a wood pallet bed as its centerpiece. These beds, crafted from repurposed pallets, promote sustainability and add rustic elegance to your space. Each bed’s unique character, from its raw texture to its stained finish, showcases nature and craftsmanship.

Imagine a bed that complements your attic’s architecture. The wood’s natural grain interacts with light from skylights, blending seamlessly with exposed beams. Wood pallet beds are versatile and can be customized to fit any decor style, from simple platforms to grand canopies.

Choosing a wood pallet bed is an eco-friendly decision, reducing waste and adding bespoke charm to your home.

By opting for this, you create more than just a sleeping area; you support a greener world.

  • Customization Tailor your bed to the room’s dimensions and style.
  • Eco-Friendly Celebrate sustainable living with repurposed materials.
  • Aesthetic Appeal Enhance the space with the bed’s organic beauty.

Glam Attic Bedroom

Transform your attic bedroom into a luxurious retreat with elegant touches. Incorporate plush fabrics and a crystal chandelier for soft, sophisticated lighting. Focus on details like luxurious bedding, mirrored accents, and metallic touches to create a dazzling effect.

Choose a rich color scheme with deep purples and bold blacks, complemented by jewel-toned highlights for added sophistication. Use textures such as velvet pillows and silk curtains to enhance the room’s opulent feel.

With careful design, your attic space can become a glamorous hideaway, reflecting true luxury living.

Attic Guest Room: A Cozy Retreat in the Sky

Imagine a secluded nook, high above the hustle and bustle, where guests can unwind in the tranquility of your attic-turned-sanctuary. The architectural quirks of an attic—think sloped ceilings and exposed beams—become the canvas for a guest room that exudes charm and warmth.

Envision a plush bed, a beacon of comfort, strategically placed to bask in the glow of the morning sun. Layered lighting is key; wall sconces and lamps offer guests the freedom to craft their own atmosphere. Soft textiles and luxurious bedding are non-negotiables, ensuring every night’s sleep is a dream.

Every corner should whisper convenience. A cozy reading nook or a compact desk space caters to the diverse needs of your visitors. To navigate the often-limited space, consider smart storage solutions or furniture that serves multiple purposes. And let’s talk color—light, breezy shades can make even the coziest of attics feel spacious and inviting.

With these thoughtful touches, your attic guest room becomes more than just a place to sleep; it’s a peaceful haven, a sky-high retreat that promises rest and rejuvenation.

Inspiring Attic Bedroom Ideas with Decorative Wallpaper

Transform your attic bedroom into a cozy retreat with the right decorative wallpaper. The walls can tell a story through patterns that catch the morning light, creating a serene or lively atmosphere.

Haddonhouse offers pastel palettes and soft designs, perfect for a peaceful girl’s nook. Skybluelofts features bold, imaginative prints, ideal for sparking a child’s creativity. For a sophisticated touch, Lemontine Design provides elegant patterns that add depth and luxury to your space.

Onset Mobilier brings nature indoors with wooden wallpaper patterns, offering a rustic yet refined backdrop for your attic retreat.

Choose wallpaper that reflects your style and enhances the attic’s aesthetics. The right wallpaper can transform your attic bedroom into a unique and personal space.

  • Whimsical Elegance – Use pastels and florals for a dreamy, light-hearted vibe.
  • Vibrant Playfulness – Opt for bright, energetic patterns to inspire joy and creativity.
  • Sophisticated Chic – Select deep hues and complex designs for a touch of luxury.
  • Rustic Charm – Embrace wood-inspired wallpapers to ground your space with nature’s essence.

Attic Kids Playroom: A World of Imagination Under the Eaves

Imagine an attic turned into a lively playroom, where sloped ceilings and dormer windows create a perfect setting for childhood dreams. Here, every corner invites adventure, with angled walls providing both architectural interest and clever storage or cozy reading spots.

Use bold colors and dynamic patterns to spark creativity and withstand the wear and tear of play. Add interactive elements like chalkboard walls for drawing, climbing frames for little explorers, or a make-believe stage for budding performers. Safety is key: ensure windows are secure and floors are cushioned to protect against falls.

Designing an attic playroom is about creating a space for curiosity and growth.

Maximizing Charm in Small Attic Loft Bedrooms

Imagine a cozy retreat under the eaves, where every corner showcases clever design. Utilize the attic’s unique shape to create a bedroom that is both charming and practical. Under sloping ceilings, built-in storage is essential and offers a chance to display your creativity.

Choose a minimalist style to keep the space feeling open and airy. A monochromatic color scheme and clean lines can make the room appear larger, while multifunctional furniture helps maintain a neat, uncluttered look. Let natural light flood in through skylights or dormer windows to enhance the sense of space.

For color, opt for light and calming shades. Soft tones can make the walls seem to recede. In this cozy loft, every detail matters:

  • Smart Lighting – Use layered lighting to improve both ambiance and functionality.
  • Color Palette – Choose paint that reflects light and adds depth to the room.
  • Dual-Purpose Furniture – Select pieces that are both stylish and offer storage solutions.

Maximizing Comfort in Attic Bedrooms with Daybeds

Transform your attic into a tranquil retreat with a well-placed daybed. Imagine a daybed under sloping eaves, providing a comfortable spot during the day and a cozy bed at night. It’s more than just furniture; it’s the centerpiece of your attic space.

Select a daybed that complements the room’s style. Metal frames add a modern touch, while wooden ones bring warmth and tradition. Ensure your choice fits the space and enhances its overall look, blending form and function seamlessly.

Position your daybed to make the most of the room. Use linens that match the interior color scheme, and watch your attic evolve into a stylish, multipurpose area.

When choosing your daybed, consider:

  • Design Synergy: Pick a frame that matches the attic’s unique architecture.
  • Dual Purpose: Opt for designs that offer both seating and sleeping options.
  • Textile Harmony: Select bedding that complements the daybed’s dual function.

Attic Bedroom with Color Accent Wall

Transform your attic bedroom with a striking color accent wall. This design choice can make the space a focal point in your home. Adding a splash of color not only enhances visual appeal but also adds character to the room.

Consider waking up to a vibrant lemon yellow wall that brings a sense of optimism. Alternatively, a deep sapphire wall can create a calming atmosphere, reminiscent of the night sky. Each color choice tells its own story, making your attic uniquely yours.

Before painting, think about how natural light interacts with your chosen color. The right shade can make your attic feel more spacious and welcoming.

Here are a few tips to help you choose the right color:

  • Maximize Light: Opt for lighter shades to reflect natural light and make the room feel airy.
  • Enhance Mood: Pick colors that create the desired ambiance, from calming blues to energizing oranges.
  • Accentuate Features: Use color to highlight unique architectural details or to visually expand the space.

Attic Reading Nook: A Tranquil Retreat

Imagine ascending to your attic retreat, a custom haven designed for book lovers. Here, under the eaves, a reading nook awaits, perfectly fitting the attic’s unique shape. Comfort meets charm in this quiet corner, where every detail is meant to create a peaceful atmosphere.

Built-in shelves follow the attic’s contours, filled with books that promise adventure and knowledge. A cozy armchair or a custom window seat, with plush pillows and soft throws, invites you to spend hours reading. For those who love natural light, a nook by the dormer window captures the sunlight, enhancing your reading experience.

The ambiance is crucial; use textured rugs and fabrics to muffle outside noise, creating a calm environment. As daylight fades, task lighting provides a gentle glow, ensuring you can continue reading comfortably.

Remodel-Attic-Bedroom-Ideas-gandm_interiordesign
Remodel-Attic-Bedroom-Ideas-gandm_interiordesign

Farmhouse Chic Attic Bedroom

Step into a space where rustic charm meets modern elegance. Wake up in your attic bedroom, surrounded by exposed wooden beams and soft, white linens. The farmhouse chic design offers a peaceful and timeless appeal.

Every element is designed for comfort: select vintage pieces, repurpose furniture with character, and layer textures that invite relaxation. Whitewashed walls provide a neutral backdrop, perfect for adding floral patterns that catch the morning light. Distressed wood finishes add authenticity and a sense of history.

Soft lighting highlights the attic’s unique architecture, creating a cozy yet open feel. This is more than just a bedroom; it’s a serene retreat where simplicity and style come together.

Glass Roof Attic Bedrooms: A Skyward Sanctuary

Imagine the peace of lying in your attic bedroom, with the night sky visible through a clear glass roof. This design combines the coziness of your private space with the vastness of the cosmos. A glass roof not only allows sunlight to flood in, creating a bright retreat, but also frames the sky, offering views that change from day to night.

Choosing glass for your roof is a deliberate decision, reflecting elegance and openness. Opt for a panoramic glass ceiling to enjoy the full expanse of the sky, or select skylights that balance privacy with a sense of openness. This feature enhances your living space, blending indoor comfort with the beauty of the natural world.

As evening falls, your attic becomes a personal observatory. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about living in sync with the day and night cycle, the weather, and the celestial display above. A glass-roofed attic is more than just a room; it’s a space where nature’s daily and nightly changes are on full display.

Wooden-Attic-Bedroom-Ideas-riya.5
Wooden-Attic-Bedroom-Ideas-riya.5

In Closing

Transforming your attic into a bedroom is not just about adding space; it’s about creating a sanctuary that reflects your style and meets your needs. By embracing the unique features of your attic, from the sloped ceilings to the cozy nooks, you can design a space that is both functional and inviting. With the right planning, materials, and design choices, your attic can become a cherished retreat that enhances your home’s value and your quality of life. As you embark on this transformative journey, remember that each decision you make—from the color palette to the furniture arrangement—brings you one step closer to realizing the attic bedroom of your dreams.

  • Are there specific color schemes that work well in attic bedrooms?
    Light and neutral color schemes tend to work best in attic bedrooms to create a sense of openness and calm. Soft whites, creams, and pastels can help the space feel larger and more inviting. However, for a more dramatic effect, dark and moody colors can add depth and coziness to the space.
  • Can an attic bedroom be energy efficient?
    Yes, with proper insulation and ventilation, an attic bedroom can be energy efficient. Insulating the walls and ceiling will help maintain a comfortable temperature year-round, and a well-designed ventilation system can reduce the need for artificial heating and cooling. Energy-efficient windows and LED lighting can also contribute to lower energy consumption.
  • How can I ensure my attic bedroom has enough light?
    Incorporate multiple light sources such as skylights, windows, and artificial lighting. Skylights can provide natural light during the day, while strategically placed lamps and ceiling lights can illuminate the space at night. Light-colored walls and reflective surfaces can also help to brighten the room.
  • How can I make my attic bedroom feel larger?
    Use light colors for walls and furnishings, and consider adding a large mirror to reflect light and create the illusion of more space. Keeping the design simple and clutter-free can also help the room feel more open. Strategic furniture placement, such as keeping larger items lower to the ground, can make the ceilings seem higher.
  • How do I maintain a comfortable temperature in my attic bedroom?
    Proper insulation, ventilation, and the use of climate control systems are key to maintaining a comfortable temperature. Insulate the attic walls and ceiling to prevent heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. A combination of fans, air conditioning, or heating systems can also help regulate the temperature year-round.
  • What are some creative ways to decorate an attic bedroom?
    Play with the architectural features by using the sloped ceilings to create a cozy atmosphere. Wall decals, hanging textiles, or a statement wallpaper can accentuate the unique shape of the room. Additionally, using bold colors or patterns can add depth and character to the space.
  • What are the best ways to maximize space in an attic bedroom?
    Utilize built-in storage and furniture tailored to the unique angles of the attic. Custom shelving and drawers can fit into eaves and under sloped ceilings, providing ample storage without taking up additional floor space. Multifunctional furniture like Murphy beds or loft beds can also free up space for daytime activities.
  • What is the best flooring for an attic bedroom?
    Lightweight and insulating flooring materials like engineered wood or cork are ideal for an attic bedroom. These materials are not only easier to install in an attic space but also provide better insulation against heat and cold. Additionally, they can add a warm and inviting feel to the room.
  • What safety considerations should I keep in mind for an attic bedroom?
    Ensure that the attic has a safe and accessible entry and exit, proper smoke detectors, and meets building codes for ceiling height and window size. The structural integrity of the floor should be assessed to handle the additional weight of furniture and occupants. Additionally, consider adding a secondary means of egress in case of emergencies.
  • What type of bed is best for an attic bedroom with low ceilings?
    A low-profile platform bed is ideal for an attic bedroom with low ceilings. This type of bed keeps the sleeping area close to the floor, maximizing the available vertical space. Additionally, choosing a bed without a headboard or with a very low one can help avoid making the space feel cramped.