Living in a compact space can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to feel cramped. Here are some expert-approved strategies to create the illusion of more square footage:
1. Opt for a Single Paint Color
Ditch the traditional approach of painting each wall a different color. Opt for a single paint color throughout the room.
This creates a continuous flow, preventing your eye from constantly registering color changes which can make a space feel smaller. Surprisingly, dark colors can work too!
They minimize the contrast between walls and corners, reducing visual interruptions.
2. Let in the Light
Capitalize on any natural light available by avoiding bulky window treatments that obstruct sunlight.
Opt for sheer or light-filtering curtains and position them to frame the windows, accentuating the view and amplifying the sense of openness.
3. Stick With Airy, Light Fabrics
Sheer fabrics allow light to pass through window treatments, bed skirts, and table covers. If you want something other than plain colors, find soft floral vines or simple stripes to keep the look simple.
4. Think Big (Furniture, Not Quantity)
Use a few large, simple pieces of furniture or accessories in place of several smaller pieces, which makes a small space look cluttered.
With open space and large blocks of color, the room will appear to be more calm and comfortable.
4. Keep the Upholstery Plain
Select solid-colored upholstery for furniture instead of bold plaids, stripes, or prints. Use texture for interest and neutral tones whenever possible.
5. Utilize Built-Ins
Built-in storage solutions maximize floor space while providing ample storage.
Consider custom-built shelves, benches, or cabinets to streamline the room and minimize visual clutter.
6. Integrate Mirrors Strategically
Mirrors are invaluable in creating the illusion of depth and space. Place a large mirror strategically to reflect light and visually expand the room.
Position it to capture attractive views or bounce light from a focal point.
7. Use Wallpaper with Large Patterns
A wallpaper featuring a large-scale pattern can be a game-changer for small rooms.
The repeating motif keeps the eye moving, creating the illusion of expansive space.
8. Raise Curtain Rods
Hanging curtains closer to the ceiling draws the eye upward, making the walls appear taller and the room more spacious. This simple adjustment can work wonders in enhancing the perceived height of a small space.
9. Embrace the View
If you have a beautiful vista, make it part of your design! Position furniture to maximize the view and draw attention to the outdoors, making the room feel less confined.
10. Use Large Area Rug
When using an area rug, choose one large enough to cover most of the visible floor. This creates a unified look and prevents a chopped-up feel that can make a small space appear even smaller.
If your flooring has a pattern, lay it in the direction that emphasizes the room’s width or length, depending on its shape.
What color makes a room look bigger?
Pale neutrals such as white, cream, and beige as well as pastel colors such as light blue or green are go-to shades to make rooms feel bigger, airier, and brighter.
But the opposite of a common decorating truth can also be true: try painting the walls, ceilings, and trim of a small room in a dark shade of navy, brown, gray, green, or black to blur the line between where walls begin and end, which can make a compact space feel bigger (and cozier).
What patterns make a room look bigger?
Bold horizontal stripes—either painted or on wallpaper—will make a room look wider. Vertical stripes will make the ceilings feel taller and create a more expansive feel.
Where should you put your bed to make a small bedroom look bigger?
The best place to put your bed to make a small bedroom look bigger depends on your layout. If possible, position the bed on the farthest visible wall from the doorway facing out to maximize floor space and allow the largest piece of furniture in your room to recede.
If your layout requires that you line up the headboard against a side wall, choose the left or right side of the room depending on where your door is located.
For example, if the door is located on the right wall, place the bed on the left wall to create a clear path from the door to the bed without bumping into it, which will block flow and encumber the space.
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