So often when we move into a new space, it’s easy to focus on the flaws. It can be hard to see the potential. One of the most common complaints my customers come to me with is that the rooms in their home are too small. This can make a space feel darker or more cluttered than it really is.
Luckily, as an interior designer, I have a whole host of tricks up my sleeve to make small rooms look and feel bigger. Here are just five of my favourites.
1. Less is more!
Focus on the furniture that’s needed in the room. There’s no need to cram in extra seats or side tables. Instead, stick to what you need to make the space functional – nothing unnecessary! I love including multiuse items, especially Ottomans that work as coffee tables but double up as extra seating when needed.
2. Keep your colour palette light and neutral.
When selecting colour palettes for smaller spaces, steer clear of dark colours. This goes for both paint and furniture. Lighter shades will bounce light around the room, highlighting the existing space.
3. Add mirrors to give the illusion of more space.
Mirrors are a classic way of giving a room the illusion of more space. When tackling small spaces, I’ll often design mirrors into the proposal to extend the space visually and reflect light.
4. Avoid over-accessorising.
Small rooms don’t have to be plain, but too many accessories can make them feel cluttered. It’s important that the accessories you do choose have room to shine. It’s all about letting the focal points speak for themselves.
5. Keep your window treatments light.
Avoid heavy, dark curtains. I’d usually lean towards relaxed roman blinds or light linen fabrics around the windows. Let the natural light into the room to make it feel airy and spacious, rather than dark and cramped.
If you’d like me to cast my expert eye around your space and help you find solutions that will make small rooms look and feel bigger, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
