12 Things About American Bedrooms That Surprise Brits

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When Brits visit America, there are quite a few things that might catch them off guard, especially when it comes to bedrooms. American bedrooms have their own style and some features that are quite different from what you might find across the pond. Let’s take a look at these distinct differences that might surprise visitors from Britain.

1. King-size beds as a standard option

In America, size matters, especially with beds. King-size beds are pretty much the standard choice for adults. This means more room to stretch out and ensures that everyone has enough space to sleep comfortably. This is a stark contrast to many British homes where space is at a premium and smaller beds are more common. The generous sizing of American beds is definitely something that visitors from the UK notice and often appreciate, especially if they love sprawling out during their sleep.

2. Multiple pillows used for decoration more than comfort

Walking into an American bedroom, you might be struck by the mountain of pillows on the bed. These aren’t just for sleeping — they’re also meant to make the room look more inviting and stylish. While Brits might use one or two functional pillows, Americans love their decorative pillow setup. It’s all about adding texture and color to the room, although it might take a minute or two to move them all before you can actually hop into bed!

3. Ceiling fans in bedrooms

A common sight in American bedrooms is the ceiling fan. These are not just there for decoration; they provide a gentle breeze and can be essential for those living in warmer climates. In Britain, where the climate is milder, ceiling fans are much less common. The convenience of controlling room temperature with a simple pull of a cord or flick of a switch is something Brits might find pleasantly surprising.

4. Built-in closets instead of wardrobes

Instead of the standalone wardrobes often found in British bedrooms, most American bedrooms feature built-in closets. These are usually much larger and can be walked into, offering a lot of storage space without taking up extra room in the bedroom itself. This is quite a treat for someone from the UK, where floor space is often at a premium and furniture needs to be minimized.

5. Larger bedside tables with more storage

American bedside tables are not just small stands for a lamp and a book. They’re often large pieces of furniture with drawers and sometimes even shelves, providing ample storage space right next to your bed. This can be quite surprising for Brits who are used to much smaller nightstands with minimal storage capacity.

6. Carpet used wall-to-wall in most bedrooms

Wall-to-wall carpeting is a hallmark of American bedrooms. It adds warmth and a soft feel underfoot, which is particularly cozy during cooler months. In Britain, you might find a mix of carpeting and other flooring, but the plush, wall-to-wall style is distinctly American and adds a certain coziness to the room that many Brits find quite different and delightful.

7. Bigger windows with lighter curtains

The size and dressing of windows in American bedrooms can be a source of surprise for many Brits. With larger windows using lighter curtains, these rooms often enjoy more natural light compared to the smaller, often heavily draped windows in the UK. This makes American bedrooms feel airier and more open, a feature that is highly valued in residential American architecture.

8. Air vents instead of radiators

Instead of the radiators commonly found in British homes, American bedrooms typically feature air vents for central heating and air conditioning. This system not only heats and cools more efficiently but also saves space and maintains the aesthetic flow of the room. For Brits used to seeing radiators attached to walls, this hidden system of temperature control is both innovative and practical.

9. Matching furniture sets are more common

When it comes to furnishing bedrooms, Americans often prefer buying matching sets where everything from the bed to the dresser and the nightstand is coordinated. This approach offers a unified look that many Brits find quite different from the more mix-and-match approach commonly seen in UK homes. This coordination can make the room look well put together and stylish.

10. More minimal clutter overall

American bedrooms often subscribe to the ‘less is more’ philosophy, which is less common in British bedrooms. The minimalist approach in the US focuses on having fewer items in the bedroom, keeping it open and clutter-free. This not only makes the room feel larger and more relaxing but also emphasizes the furniture and decor that are present.

11. Bed height noticeably higher

Something that might catch the eye of a Brit in an American bedroom is the height of the beds. They tend to be set noticeably higher off the ground, which can make them feel more grand and luxurious. This difference in height is not just aesthetic but can also offer more storage space underneath, a practical solution that adds to the room’s functionality.

12. More space around the bed

American bedrooms often feature more space around the bed, allowing for easier movement and a more open feel. This is quite different from many British bedrooms, where space can be tight. The extra room can make the bedroom not just a place for sleeping but a more versatile space for relaxation and leisure, enhancing the overall living experience.