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I Stopped Making These 13 Decor Mistakes—and My House Feels Bigger

Sometimes it’s not the size of your space—it’s what you’re putting in it. I didn’t realize how much my decorating habits were making my home feel smaller and more cramped until I started making a few simple changes.

By letting go of these 13 common decor mistakes, my house instantly felt more open, airy, and inviting. If your rooms feel tighter than they should, these fixes might be exactly what you need.

Use mirrors strategically to reflect light and create an illusion of space

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Using mirrors can transform your home. They reflect light, brightening up dark corners and making rooms feel larger.

Position mirrors across from windows to maximize natural light. This simple trick creates depth and helps your space feel more open.

Consider a large wall mirror or a grouping of smaller ones to enhance the effect. With thoughtful placement, you can turn any room into a brighter, airier environment.

Choose Light Wall Colors to Make Rooms Appear More Open

Interior of modern apartment living room
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Light wall colors can greatly enhance the feel of your space. Shades like soft whites, pastels, or light grays reflect more natural light, making rooms feel airy and spacious.

These colors can also create a seamless flow between rooms, giving the illusion of a larger area. Consider trying light hues in your next painting project to transform how your home feels.

Avoid oversized furniture that dominates the room

Apartment with dining table and couch
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Choosing the right furniture size is essential for creating an open feel in your home. Oversized pieces can make a space feel cramped and unwelcoming.

Instead, opt for furniture that fits well within your room dimensions. This allows for better movement and flow.

Consider multi-functional pieces that save space while still providing comfort and style. Remember, proportion matters in making your home feel larger and more inviting.

Opt for multi-functional furniture to save space.

White Interior of Bedroom
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Choosing multi-functional furniture is a smart way to maximize your space. Think about pieces that serve more than one purpose, like a sofa with built-in storage or a coffee table that can also be used as a desk.

These versatile options help you keep your home organized while maintaining a comfortable feel. Plus, you can easily rearrange them to fit your needs, making small spaces feel more functional and inviting.

Place furniture away from walls to create a more dynamic layout

Black Fabric Sectional Sofa Near Glass Window
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Placing your furniture away from the walls can instantly make your space feel larger. Try moving your couch or sectional a foot or two into the room. This simple shift creates pathways and makes the area feel inviting.

It also encourages conversation and interaction, making your home more functional. By avoiding a perimeter layout, you allow for a more fluid flow in your living space. Embrace this approach and watch your room transform!

Embrace vertical storage to free up floor space

Brown Wooden Shelves
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Maximizing vertical storage can transform your space. Using shelves or tall cabinets draws the eye upward, creating a sense of height.

Consider adding hooks or pegboards to walls for items like bags or tools, making them easily accessible yet off the floor.

This approach not only keeps your floor clear but also showcases your style with decorative storage solutions. It’s a simple change that can make a big impact!

Use sheer curtains to allow more natural light to flow in.

Living room with couch near table and window with curtains
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Sheer curtains are a great way to brighten up your space. They let in natural light while still providing a sense of privacy.

These lightweight fabrics allow sunlight to filter through, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. You can enjoy the benefits of daylight without harsh glare.

By choosing sheer curtains, you can make your rooms feel more open and airy. This simple change can dramatically enhance your home’s vibe.

Incorporate Transparent Furniture to Maintain Visual Continuity

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Using transparent furniture can make your space feel larger and more open. Items like glass tables or acrylic chairs allow light to flow through, creating a sense of airiness.

This visual continuity helps blend your furniture with the surroundings. You can use these pieces to maintain style while avoiding a cluttered look. Embrace transparency for a more spacious home feel.

Choose streamlined furniture with clean lines to reduce clutter

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Selecting furniture with clean lines can create a more open feel in your home. Pieces that avoid excessive ornamentation make a space look larger and less chaotic.

Opt for sofas, chairs, and tables that have a minimalist design. This choice enables you to maintain an airy atmosphere while maximizing functionality in your living areas.

Avoid too many patterns that can overwhelm a space

a cozy room decorated with lights
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Using too many patterns can create a chaotic feel in your home. It’s easy to get carried away with vibrant designs, but this can visually shrink your space.

Instead, choose a few key patterns and mix them thoughtfully. This approach allows you to maintain a cohesive look while keeping the environment comfortable and inviting. Remember, simplicity often leads to a more spacious appearance.

Keep accessories minimal to maintain a sense of openness

Bedroom
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To create an open feel in your home, focus on using fewer accessories. Too many items can clutter a space and make it feel cramped.

Choose a few meaningful pieces that add character without overwhelming the room.

Opt for larger accessories rather than numerous small ones to draw the eye and create visual interest while keeping things spacious.

Select furniture that is proportional to the room size.

Upholstered Bed Near Cabinet
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Choosing the right size furniture is key to making your space feel larger. Oversized pieces can overwhelm a small room, while tiny items may not provide enough comfort or functionality.

Aim for furniture that fits comfortably within the dimensions of your room. Consider modular or lightweight options that can be moved around easily to create a more open atmosphere. Doing so can help you enjoy your space to the fullest.

Stick to a cohesive color palette to enhance flow

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Choosing a cohesive color palette can significantly improve the flow in your home. When you use a consistent set of colors, each room feels connected.

Try selecting three to five colors that complement each other. This approach creates a harmonious environment, making your space feel larger and more inviting.

Incorporate these colors in your walls, furniture, and decor items for a unified look.