Through the years, “Fixer Upper” host Joanna Gaines has shared a great deal of hacks for designing a bedroom, especially a small one. So by now, many fans of the show are well-acquainted with her simple ways to decorate a bedroom à la Joanna Gaines. One element that is never absent from her projects is a statement headboard. For the celebrity interior designer, a headboard is more than just a decorative choice; it’s a functional focal point that instantly anchors the space. Who can forget the time Gaines turned an old window into a bedroom statement piece? It’s one of those moments where she shows how important a well-chosen headboard is in defining a room’s entire character.

Aside from a repurposed window, Gaines has used reclaimed wood, an antique door, and a cozy upholstered panel to make a statement on the top side of the bed. So why is this such a powerful design move? For starters, having a small bedroom means only a few pieces of furniture can fit inside. By securing a headboard with a visual weight, Gaines draws the eye upward, creating a sense of vertical space and presence while ensuring that the piece stands out. Moreover, it sets the tone for the overall style of the room. Gaines likes to complement her headboards with soft, neutral color palettes, like whites, beiges, and grays. To maintain a serene and spacious feel, she incorporates simple but layered bedding and minimal accessories so the focus remains on the statement headboard.

Bringing Joanna Gaines’ design hack into your small bedroom is easier than it looks. Start by choosing a headboard that fits the mood or aesthetic you want to create in your sleeping space. One of the easiest DIY headboard designs to upgrade your bedroom is the wood slab. The work needed to pull off this one revolves around sanding, smoothing, staining, and sealing the wood before attaching it to the bed. But if you want to achieve Gaines’ fixer-upper vibe, go for other elements, such as reclaimed wood, distressed finishes, and linen-covered frames with subtle tufting. If your budget is tight, get creative by repurposing an old farmhouse door. A light sanding and a coat of chalk paint can already do wonders to this piece and turn it into a statement headboard.

If you have an existing headboard that does not draw much attention due to its dull appearance, you can always give that headboard new life with a no-sew IKEA hack. To further boost your new headboard’s visual impact, consider painting the wall behind it an accent color that’s slightly darker than the rest of the room. Adding mirrors on the adjacent wall will not only reflect light but also make the room feel bigger. Since you already have a statement headboard, keep the surrounding furniture minimal and functional. Using wall-mounted pendant lights or floating nightstands instead of bedside tables can save space, elevate the mood, and bring in a touch of luxury into your small bedroom.