How To Make A Small Space Look Bigger

Alright, imagine you’re a magician and your wand is a paintbrush, a few mirrors, and some cleverly chosen furniture. Making a small space look bigger isn’t about breaking the bank or waving a credit card like a flag; it’s about illusion, baby. We’re talking David Copperfield, but for your living room.

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Playing with Space

Making a small room appear bigger is all about tricking the eye! Implement a few of these tips to artificially expand your space. The goal is to make the room feel more open and welcoming. You’ll be surprised what some rearranging, organizing, and strategic shopping can do.

Go with White Walls

First things first, let’s talk colors. Dark hues might make you feel all moody and mysterious, but they’re going to hug your walls in a way that’s a bit too cozy. Light, airy colors? They’re your new best friends. Whites, soft blues, gentle greens—they reflect light and make your space feel like it just exhaled a sigh of relief.

Soften and brighten your room by painting the walls white. This is one of the most impactful things you can do when it comes to making a room look bigger. The reflective qualities of white make a room look bigger. It also makes the lines between wall and ceiling blur, causing a heightening effect.

My go to white paint color to paint the inside of a home is “Nano White” by Behr paint. I love the softness yet brightness it has in whatever lighting it received and that it doesn’t have a strong undertone of any color, it’s pretty neutral. If you don’t want too much coolness or warmth, this is it. It’s perfect, right in the middle!

Perfect the Proportions

Optimized proportions are essential in maximizing a small room. This means making sure the furniture and decor aren’t too big for the size of the room. Don’t put a giant couch in a tiny room. Don’t hang a painting that covers the whole wall. You get the picture (pun intended).

Sofa and Furniture Finds

Ditch the Bulky Furniture

Let’s not ignore the power of furniture. Go for pieces that multitask. Ottomans that open up for storage, coffee tables with hidden compartments—these are your secret weapons. And don’t just shove everything against the walls. Float some pieces in the middle of the room to create the flow of a grand ballroom, even if it’s more ‘intimate gathering’ sized.

Not only should your furniture be proportional to the room size, but it should be slim and open. For example, choose couches with exposed legs and open arms. The more open space in the room – even under the couch – the better. Avoid heavy chests and bulky furniture for that effortless expansive look.

Keep it Breezy

Light and airy fabrics tend to make a room feel more spacious and open. It prevents the room from feeling closed-off and dark. Some translucent white curtains are usually very effective. Keeping the windows open when possible is a bonus.

Neutral Curtain Finds

Choose light-colored Decor

Off-white, light gray, dusty blue, and sage green are excellent colors that can make a room look bigger. Incorporating as much light into the room as possible will help those inside feel comfortable.

Hang Mirrors

Now, onto mirrors. These aren’t just for checking your outfit before you dash out the door. Strategically placing mirrors can bounce light around and create the illusion of depth. Think of them as windows into a parallel universe where your room is twice the size. Plus, they add a touch of glamour without the price tag of actual renovations.

Mirrors are an age-old illusion used in the smallest rooms like bars and elevators. Mirrors trick your mind into thinking the room is bigger. It expands your line of sight and makes everything feel less cramped. A beautiful statement piece mirror – proportional to the room, of course – will make a huge difference in your space.

Mirror Finds

Keep the clutter out

Decluttering might sound like something your mom would tell you to do, but it works wonders. If it doesn’t spark joy or serve a purpose, it’s got to go. A clutter-free space feels more open. It’s like the room can finally take a deep breath, and so can you.

One of the quickest ways to make a small room feel even smaller is by making a mess. A cluttered room feels overwhelming and full no matter what the room size. Simplify your space as much as possible. Make sure everything has a place and that it stays there as much as possible. Use efficient storage to keep bulky and unnecessary items hidden away from the eye.

Prioritize Walking Space

Put yourself in the shoes of someone walking into your room for the first time. What will their pathway be? People should be able to move freely in a room. Create a clear path through furniture and decor. This will make it feel bigger and more navigable.

Let’s Recap!

So, without needing a secret Swiss bank account, you can make a tiny space look and feel bigger. It’s all about a little creativity, a pinch of magic, and a whole lot of knowing where to place your furniture.

Making a room feel bigger doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Keep it simple, airy, and open. Use appropriately sized furniture and mirrors. You and your guests will feel right at home and at peace in a room that follows these guidelines. You won’t even notice the size of the room. It will just feel right.

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