Best laid plans: Useful dimensions for the perfect bedroom layout

Wadrobe Dimensions

When it comes to bedroom planning, the wardrobe is a fundamental item and one of the biggest pieces in the room. Here are the ideal measurements according to the wardrobe and design experts from Sleek, a subsidiary of Asian Paints that provides complete kitchen and wardrobe solutions.

Depth: Between 20 to 24 inches. Sleek wardrobes are designed keeping in mind items like suits which require more space. They suggest an ideal depth of 22 inches. With sliding doors, factor in a minimum of 2 inches extra for the channels and doors.

Bed Sizes

Optimal bedroom designing involves choosing the right bed design that is both a comfortable size for the occupant(s) while still leaving enough circulation space for easy movement in the room. One option is to customise the bed dimensions to fit the above criteria. However, if you want to go in for a ready made bed, here are the different standard bed sizes.

Single bed: Ideal for children and young adults, a single bed can be 30, 36 or 42 inches in width and 72 to 75 inches in length. Also known as twin size, the most common dimensions are 36 inches x 72 inches.

Bedside Table(S) Measurements

While bedside tables aren’t a necessity in bedroom designing, they definitely are a huge convenience to have. The size of the table will rely heavily on the size and bedroom layout. A general rule of thumb is to have a table that is between 12 to 15 inches deep. The length should be a minimum of 15 inches while the height should be the same or slightly lower (1 to 2 inches) than the height of the bed including the mattress. 

False Ceiling Height

The standard ceiling height in India is between 10 to 12 feet. If you are planning to incorporate a false ceiling in your kid's bedroom or your bedroom designing, make sure that your final height isn’t less than 9 feet. If, for whatever reason, your false ceiling height is lower than 9 feet, your bedroom will look too enclosed and cramped.

Television – Size And Distance

If you want to incorporate a television in your bedroom planning, you need to make sure the distance between the head of the bed (where you sit to watch) and the television is ideal for viewing. The ideal television size is between 43 to 55 inches for bedrooms depending on the viewing distance. Unless you have a very large bedroom, don’t go in for a bigger television. The distance between the television unit and the foot of the bed should ideally be at least 24 inches for easy movement.

Adding Study Tables

The study table requires enough clearance for movement of other occupants while being used, ideally 48 inches between the back of the chair and other objects. The minimum depth should be 20 inches and minimum length should be 36 inches.

Fitting In A Dressing Table

With dressing tables, you need to place it where you can sit comfortably and use it as well as step back and get a full view in the mirror. The depth of the table should be a minimum of 12 inches with 16 inches being ideal. The length and height of the table depend on the space available and your preferences. Some like to be able to rest their hands on the table while others prefer a lower table, about 15 to 18 inches. If you don’t have space to fit a dressing table in to your bedroom planning, take inspiration from this image where the bedside tables serve a dual purpose.

Space For A Seating Area

Not all bedrooms can accommodate a seating area so don’t try to force one if you do not have the space to be comfortable. Your seating area should not get in the way of easy movement around the bed or the rest of the room. Generally, an armchair has a depth and width between 26 to 32 inches. You will also need enough leg room while sitting and walking around space.