As a current owner of a large but strange layout 1888 Victorian home, I am quite familiar with both the charm and challenges of small spaces. Often when you have to cram all your possessions into a small space, the results can feel cramped, claustrophobic, and anything but cozy! Achieving a cozy not claustrophobic space takes some conscious design effort.
The good news is that the trick to living successfully in a small space might be simpler than you think. It all comes down to tricking the eye into perceiving more space with the use of three basic concepts: size, light, and movement.
6 Tips to Make a Room Space Look & Feel Bigger
1. Get creative with your furniture layout.
Situating your furniture flush against the wall can actually shrink your small space. Moving your furniture closer to a central point in the room can make everything seem bigger, as well as add an air of warmth and coziness.
2. Consider your wall hangings.
Larger pieces of framed art can make a room seem spacious and luxurious. Mirrors are great for adding depth and dimension to a space; they also make it appear as though the room has more radiant natural lighting than it actually might. Don’t be afraid to really go for it, especially since wall hangings obviously don’t take up any floor space.
3. Utilize sneaky storage.
Nothing shrinks a room quite like clutter. Whether it’s under the bed or stairs, behind the door, over the toilet, or on an elegant shelf or coffee table, do what you can to store your stuff within, under, behind, or above your furniture. To maximize your space, you’ll want to keep your floors and tables clear.
4. Go easy on the knickknacks.
Of course, you should do whatever makes you happy. Still, if you want your space to look large and luxe, you should consider the impact of small room decor. The smaller the accent, the more crowded your space seems. You may want to refine and edit the items you include on display in your main living space.
5. Add plants.
I absolutely adore houseplants of all kinds. Not only do they help with air purification and circulation, but they make any space look more elegant as well. Hanging plants from ceiling hooks can draw the eye upward and create an illusion of a larger space. And just like larger home decor items, larger plants can make space seem more spacious as well.
6. Choose a color palette with care.
It’s a well-known interior-design tip that lighter colors can make a room look larger. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with bright pops of color you love! Selecting lighter-toned, more neutral furniture and coordinating accents in rich colors can tie a room together. For instance, maybe you have a cream-colored sofa, a tan rattan chair, and then decorate with throw pillows, art, books, baskets, and blankets that incorporate your favorite hues.