Decorating Tips to Make a Room Feel Bigger
When you live in a small space you need to think creatively about how to make every square inch work harder. Whether it’s a compact bedroom, a snug living room, or a cosy home office, the challenge is the same: how do you make a small room feel bigger? Fortunately, with a few clever decorating tricks, you can create the illusion of space without knocking down walls or embarking on major renovations. Here’s how to transform your small space into a room that feels open, airy, and far more spacious than it actually is.
Colour Choices to Open Up a Room
It can’t be said enough that one of the simplest ways to make a small room feel bigger is to choose light, neutral colours. Soft whites, gentle greys, and pale pastels work wonders in reflecting light, thus giving the impression that the room is larger and more open than it actually is. This is a time to steer clear of dark colours, which have the opposite effect.
Using similar tones on walls, ceilings, and floors also helps create a sense of continuity and flow. You can ring the changes with accessories like cushions, throws, or artwork which you can easily swap as your tastes or the seasons change.
Creative Storage Solutions
Vertical Storage: Make use of otherwise wasted vertical space by installing tall shelves or cabinets that draw the eye upwards, give an impression of height, and provide ample storage.
Hidden Storage: Go for versatile furniture such as beds with built-in drawers, or sofa beds, or nesting tables that can be tucked away when not in use. You could make good use of a coffee table that double as a storage unit, or an armchair caddy to store remotes and charging cables. The less visual clutter, the larger your room will feel.
Finally, don’t forget the importance of a good old-fashioned declutter. Regularly clearing out items you no longer need or use can dramatically open up a small space, making it feel fresher and more inviting.
Scale and Proportion: It’s essential to consider the scale and proportion of your furniture relative to the size of the room. Oversized furniture can overwhelm a small space, so go for something like a compact two-seater over a bulky settee.
Placement is equally important. Arrange furniture so as to make the most of your floor space and allow for easy movement around the room. However, try not to line the walls with too much furniture, as this can make the room feel boxed in, and is usually only suitable for a waiting room.
Maximising Natural Light
Natural light is a small room’s best ally. The more light you can bring into a space, the larger and more inviting it will feel. If you’re lucky enough to have large windows, make the most of them. Opt for light, sheer curtains or blinds that allow light to filter through.
Mirrors: Strategically placing mirrors is another brilliant way to amplify natural light. Mirrors reflect both natural and artificial light, bouncing it around the room and creating the illusion of depth. Consider hanging a large mirror opposite a window to reflect the outdoors, making the room feel as though it extends beyond its actual boundaries. A well-placed mirror can also serve as a stunning focal point.
Visual Tricks to Expand Space
You can also create the illusion of space through visual continuity. Using continuous flooring throughout a small space can help create a seamless flow and give an impression of spaciousness. Avoid breaking up the space with too many rugs or different types of flooring, as this can make it feel fragmented and smaller.
Minimise patterns and textures in a small room. A lightly textured wallpaper or a simple striped rug can add depth without making the room feel busy.
Another trick is to create a focal point that distracts from the room’s size. This could be an eye-catching piece of art, or even a feature wall that focuses attention on a specific area.
Conclusion
Transforming a small space into a room that feels bigger is easier with smart choices in colour, furniture, lighting, and storage. With these tips, you can create a space that’s not only functional and stylish but also feels open and inviting, no matter its size.
If you’re ready to breathe new life into your small space, why not let the experts at Fitzrovia Decorating help? We specialise in transforming homes with careful attention to detail and a keen eye for design. Get in touch with us today to discuss your project and discover how we can make your small space feel bigger and better than ever.
