Do you live in a small apartment or do you have a compact room that you want to make look bigger? With the right furnishing tips and styling tricks, you can visually enlarge even the smallest spaces. In this article, I share 10 effective ways to make your small space look bigger.
Light and colour as a basis
The basis for a sense of space begins with light and colour. By dealing with this in a smart way, you immediately create a more open and airy effect.
Choose light colors
To make a small space feel larger, ideally choose a soft neutral color palette. Light shades such as white, beige and pastels reflect more light, making the space feel fresh and airy. This doesn’t necessarily have to be stark white – subtle variations in light shades also add depth. Keep dark accents to small items such as accessories.
Maximize natural light
Natural light is essential to make a room feel airier and more spacious. Keep your windows clear and let in as much daylight as possible. Consider replacing curtains with translucent ones. Hang them as high as possible, from ceiling to floor, to visually extend the room.
Play smart with furniture and layout
The right furniture and layout can make a huge difference in how spacious a room feels.
Image via Eyeswoon
Go for multifunctional furniture
In a small space, it is smart to choose furniture that has multiple functions. Think of a bed with storage drawers underneath, a fold-out dining table or a coffee table with built-in storage space or a modular wall cabinet that serves as storage space, work space and TV cabinet. This way you make optimal use of the available space without it looking full. Choose furniture with high legs, such as sofas, chairs and tables. This creates space under the furniture, so that the floor remains visible and the room looks airier and more spacious. For example, a sofa on legs gives a spacious effect in the living room.
Stools and side tables are indispensable in a small living room. They are flexible, take up little space, but offer space for decoration or can serve as extra seating when needed.
Create openness with transparent materials
Where possible, opt for furniture made of glass or other transparent materials. A glass coffee table or side table gives the illusion of an uninterrupted space. Open cabinets or shelving also provide an airy effect compared to closed cabinets.
Think vertically
Use the full height of your space to make it appear larger. Place tall cabinets or bookshelves that extend to the ceiling. This draws the eye upwards and gives a sense of height. Hang decorations a little higher on the wall for the same effect.
Image via Instagram: Sloftmagazine
Creating optical illusions
With a few clever tricks you can influence the perception of space and optically enlarge the room.
Use mirrors strategically
Mirrors are a tried and tested method of creating depth and light in a room. Place a large mirror opposite a window to reflect natural light. Or hang several smaller mirrors in different shapes as decorative elements that simultaneously enlarge the space.
Play with patterns and lines
Use horizontal lines to make a room appear wider, or vertical lines for a higher effect. You can apply this in wallpaper, rugs, laying direction of wooden floors or even in the placement of furniture. Avoid too busy patterns that can make the room feel smaller.
Create depth with lighting
A good lighting plan is essential in a small space. Combine different light sources at different heights. Use uplighters to illuminate the ceiling and make the space seem higher. Accent lighting in corners and niches creates depth.
Smart styling tips
The finishing touches in your interior can make a big difference in how spacious the room feels.
Minimize and organize
Keep your space as clean and organized as possible. Too much stuff can quickly make a small space feel cluttered and chaotic. Opt for a few larger decorative items instead of many small ones. Provide ample storage space to keep clutter out of sight.
Create visual calm
Try to create a sense of visual calm in your interior. Choose a limited colour palette and repeat elements for coherence. Avoid too many different textures or styles mixed together. A calm and coherent interior looks more spacious.
By applying these tips and tricks, you can make even the smallest spaces feel spacious and airy. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best in your specific space. With some creativity and clever styling, you can transform your compact room into a surprisingly spacious and pleasant place.