By Jane Blanchard
Even if you have a large home, you probably have at least one room that feels small. While you may not be able to gain square footage, you can certainly make the area appear larger by tricking the eye. Here are seven simple tips to take your room from cramped to comfortable.
- Use Mirrors
Mirrors reflect light as well as give the illusion of a continuous flow. Use this to your advantage by propping or hanging a sizable mirror near a window. Natural light will pour in and brighten the surrounding space. For a design that doubles as artwork, consider creating a feature wall with mirrors of different shapes and sizes. Pair them with glass tabletops for a more open feel.
- Position Furniture Wisely
While you may be tempted to place furniture flush against the walls, pull your couches and chairs away from the borders to give the appearance of a larger room. Set your longest piece of furniture at an angle to draw the eye to its elongated lines and away from the shorter walls.
- Stick to One Color
Via Houzz
You’ve probably heard that light colors open up a room. Take this concept a step further by painting the walls, detailing and trim in varying shades of the same light hue.
Carry this theme to your drapes to maximize the depth of your space.
- Eliminate Clutter
Give your tiny room a fighting chance at living large by keeping it tidy. Invest in storage furniture, such as a stylish ottoman, where you can stash blankets, magazines and more for a cleaner surface area. Excessive quantities of throw pillows and accessories, however fashionable they may be, can make a small room feel claustrophobic. For this reason, keep these little extras to a minimum when space is limited.
- Hang Curtains High
If your windows are stationed several feet from the ceiling, go ahead and mount the curtains as high as possible. This will draw the eye upward and give the appearance of a longer, grander window that’s situated in an equally grand room.
- Install a Striped Floor
Via Houzz
Similar to vertical stripes in the fashion world, flooring can also benefit from this type of design. Stripes make a floor look like it stretches for miles. Since revamping your floors can be pricey, a striped area rug will create the same effect at a fraction of the cost.
- Upgrade Lighting
A well-lit room instantly boosts its perceived space. In addition to your average overhead fixtures, consider installing recessed lighting in key areas. Continue the flow of light with lamps, lanterns and chandeliers. Unlike dark colors, soft pink bulbs can give a room that cozy atmosphere you love without making the room feel smaller. Try replacing just one bulb from each fixture with a pink one to achieve a warm environment.
For more design tips and tricks, head to Modernize.com.
