Techniques to Make a Small Space Look Larger

Is there a room (or rooms) in your home that could be described as cozy, small, or cramped? It is fairly common for homeowners, especially in the New England area with its historic homes, to struggle with what to do with rooms that are short on square footage. Would you like to create the illusion that the space is larger than it really is without spending a fortune on remodeling or renovating your home? Here are several simple and affordable techniques to make a small space look larger.

Paint with a Purpose

•  Many designers have long believed that lighter colors make a room appear brighter and bigger. In fact, light and bright colors are more reflective and do make rooms feel more open and airy. More recently, designers have added to this idea of painting in light colors with painting the trim, walls and sometimes even the ceiling the same color in order to trick the eye into believing that the surfaces are continuous. Paint is an affordable way to make a room feel less confining and more open.

Pay Attention to Furnishings

•  If you are trying to decorate a small space, pay close attention to the furniture in which you will fill the space. The softer the tone of the fabrics, the less it will appear to take up space. In addition, designers encourage that less is better for tight spaces. Only use minimal amount of furniture. When possible, use double-duty furnishings such as ottomans, that also serve as seating. Keep the scale of the furniture down to make the room seem larger. For example, instead of filling a room with a sectional sofa, maybe choose a smaller scale loveseat instead.

Let in the Light

• Allow as much natural light into the space as possible to open the interior of the home. Forgo dark curtains for light filtering ones. When possible, use curtains or blinds on the lower half of a window to allow the top half to let in full sun. For rooms that are lacking big windows, try artificial lighting strategically placed throughout the room.

Remove the Clutter

• Spaces that have too much going on, or too many pictures/keepsakes can feel confining and uncomfortable. Keep decorations to a minimum to allow the illusion that there is ample space.

Use Mirrors

• Mirrors can help reflect both artificial and natural lights, thus making a space feel larger. Mirrors that reflect the outdoors can bring the outside in and create a look that the room goes on and on.

Do you need help choosing a paint that can help your small space look a bit larger? Call Jerry Enos Painting at 978-546-6843, or visit our website to speak to our color consultants.

Categorised in: Decorating, Decorative Paint Techniques