Living in a small space can feel cozy and charming, but it can also feel cramped and claustrophobic if not designed correctly. The good news is you don’t need to knock down walls or make massive renovations to make your small space feel bigger. With a few clever tips and tricks, you can create the illusion of a larger space and make your home feel more open and airy. In this blog post, I’ll share 15 ways I’ve managed to make my small space feel bigger, and hopefully, they can help you too!
1. Use Mirrors
Mirrors are a small space’s best friend. They reflect light and create the illusion of depth, making any room feel larger and brighter. I’ve placed a big mirror opposite a window in my living room to bounce natural light around the space.
Also, using a mirror as a focal point in a room can make it feel more expansive. For instance, a large mirror above a dining table or fireplace draws the eye upwards and creates a sense of vertical space.
2. Opt for Light Colors
Light colors make a room feel open and airy because they reflect light better than dark colors. I’ve painted my walls in a soft off-white color, which has significantly brightened up my space.
But don’t just stop at the walls. Light-colored furniture, rugs, and curtains also contribute to making a room feel larger. For example, I’ve chosen a light beige rug and white sheer curtains for my living room to maintain the light and airy vibe.
3. Maximize Natural Light
Natural light is a powerful tool in making a small space feel bigger. It opens up the room and makes it feel more connected to the outdoors. I’ve ditched heavy, dark curtains for sheer ones to let in as much sunlight as possible.
If you don’t have many windows, you can still maximize natural light by placing mirrors opposite windows to reflect light around the room, or by using light, reflective colors in your decor.
4. Choose Furniture with Legs
Furniture that sits off the ground on legs creates a sense of lightness and space. The extra visibility underneath the furniture helps to create the illusion of a larger room. I’ve chosen a sofa with raised legs and a coffee table with a slim, open frame.
Also, opt for pieces with slim profiles instead of chunky ones. For example, a slim console table behind the sofa or a chair with thin metal legs can make a room feel less crowded.
5. Use Multi-purpose Furniture
Multi-purpose furniture can save a lot of space in a small home. For example, I have a coffee table that also serves as storage and a sofa that transforms into a bed for guests.
Investing in a few key pieces of multi-purpose furniture can mean less clutter and more open space. Consider items like an ottoman with storage inside, a desk that can double as a dining table, or a bed with drawers underneath for storing clothes.
6. Keep a Clutter-free Space
Clutter can make any space, big or small, feel cramped. I make it a habit to declutter regularly and to only keep items that serve a purpose or bring me joy.
Use smart storage solutions to keep clutter out of sight. For example, use baskets to store items on open shelving, or use over-the-door storage in a small bathroom to keep toiletries organized.
7. Use Vertical Space
When square footage is limited, think vertically. Use the walls for storage or display. I’ve installed floating shelves above my desk for books and decorative items.
Also, consider tall, narrow furniture to maximize vertical space. A tall bookshelf or a high chest of drawers takes up less floor space and draws the eye upwards, making the room feel taller.
8. Use Stripes to Elongate Your Space
Stripes can create a sense of movement and direction, making a room feel longer or wider. I’ve used a striped rug in my living room to visually extend the space.
You can also use stripes on walls or ceilings for the same effect. For example, a wallpaper with vertical stripes can make a room feel taller, while horizontal stripes can make it feel wider.
9. Keep Patterns in Check
While patterns can add character to a room, too many can make a small space feel chaotic. I stick to one or two patterns and use them sparingly.
If you love bold patterns, consider using them on accent pieces like throw pillows or rugs, rather than on large pieces of furniture or walls. This way, you can still enjoy your favorite patterns without overwhelming the space.
10. Use Clear Furniture
Furniture made of clear materials like glass or acrylic can give the illusion of more space because they don’t visually fill up a room. I have a clear acrylic coffee table in my living room, and it makes the space feel more open.
You can also consider clear dining chairs, side tables, or even a desk. Just make sure to balance it with other materials to avoid a too-modern look if that’s not your style.
11. Hang Curtains High
Hanging curtains as high as possible creates a vertical line that makes a room feel taller. I’ve hung my curtains just below the ceiling, and it’s made a huge difference.
Choose curtains that are long enough to touch the floor, and avoid heavy, dark fabrics that can make the room feel smaller.
12. Go Big with Art
A large piece of art can create a focal point and make a room feel more expansive. I have a large painting above my sofa, and it draws attention and makes the room feel bigger.
Avoid cluttering walls with many small pieces of art. Instead, opt for one or two large pieces that make a statement.
13. Use Open Shelving
Open shelving creates a sense of space because it allows the eye to travel through the room. I’ve replaced upper kitchen cabinets with open shelves, and it’s made my small kitchen feel more open.
However, be mindful of clutter. Keep your shelves neat and organized, and only display items that are beautiful or useful.
14. Keep the Flow of Traffic Unobstructed
In a small space, it’s important to keep the flow of traffic unobstructed. Arrange furniture in a way that allows easy movement around the room. I’ve placed my furniture in a way that creates a clear path from the entrance to the window.
Avoid placing furniture in the middle of the room, as it can break up the space and make it feel smaller.
15. Create Zones in Open Floor Plans
If you have an open floor plan, creating different zones can make the space feel larger. I’ve used rugs and furniture arrangement to define different areas in my living room and dining area.
For example, a rug can define the living area, while a pendant light can define the dining area. This creates a sense of separate spaces within the open floor plan, making it feel larger.
