When dealing with a small space, it’s important more than ever to capitalize on using only the things that you need and love most. With a limited amount of square footage, you really have to plan how you will use the space BEFORE you decorate. This will in turn push your creative limits but you’ve got this!
Below are 10 simple ways to make a small space appear bigger. Now go forth and do your thing.
Use a neutral Color Palette
Light or neutral color palettes visually makes your space expand. This concept is ideal for your walls, trim and mainstay pieces like a sofa and chairs. I simply could not live in a space filled with whites, beige, and tans. So if you’re a color enthusiast as well; you can incorporate pops of non-neutrals through accent pillows and decor accessories.
2. Give the Illusion of High Ceilings
If your small space also has low ceilings and you want to hang drapes, use the “high and wide method”. This basically means that you would mount the rod and hang drapes close to the ceiling to create the illusion of height.
To create the illusion of a wider window, extend the rod up to 12 inches beyond the window’s frame. This will ensure that when drapes are open, they don’t cover the window frame and allow light to come in.
3. Use Mirrors
Mirrors serve a dual purpose. They are great at visually expanding a space and adding light. They can also be used to reflect artwork or other interesting things on the opposite wall. Just make sure that whatever the mirror is reflecting is something that you want to see.
4. Choose Multi-Functional Furniture
Select furnishings that are stylish and serve a double duty. For example, ottomans can be used as both a coffee table and extra seating. Or a daybed can serve as a sofa during the day and bed at night, especially if you don’t have space for a guest room.
5. Choose Furniture That Doesn’t Weigh the Space Down
A glass top coffee table, a Lucite dining table or acrylic chairs are great examples of furniture that would visually expand a space and make it feel less cramped.
6. Maximize Natural light
Use sheer drapes to allow natural light to shine through. Or leave your windows uncovered if privacy isn’t an issue. This will create a sense of depth in a small space.
7. Don’t Place Your Furniture Against the Walls
Not placing furniture against the walls makes it appear to “float’ in the room and eliminates that awkward dead space in the middle.
8. One Focal Point
A small space only needs one focal point. If you have a built-in focal point such a fireplace or bay windows, be sure to minimize other items in the room so they don’t compete with it.
If your space lacks a focal point, a gallery wall is a great option that won’t take up too much space. Instead of using many small art pieces grouped together, use fewer pieces with wider mats. The effect will be the same but the space will feel less crowded.
9.Choose Furniture with Exposed Legs
Skirted sofas and chairs appear boxy in a small space. Opt for sofas and armchairs that are raised on legs, which creates a sense of light and space.
10. Remove Clutter
“A place for everything and everything in it’s place” is so important in a small space! Be sure to store everyday items like remote controls in storage baskets or boxes. And don’t allow magazines or books to lie around on tables.
The struggle is real when it comes to living in a small space. But its doable if you are strategic in designing your space in a way that feels less cramped and makes it appear bigger.
Have you used any of these ideas to make your small space appear bigger?
