A small space does not have to feel cramped. Here are 5 ways that you can easily do to make a room feel bigger.
Mirror, Mirror on the wall...
Adding a mirror to a space is one of the easiest things (and sometimes inexpensive) that you can do to make a room feel bigger. Mirrors reflect the light and surroundings which makes the room appear larger than it is.
In a living room or dining area, adding a large one can help reflect the light from the window which will in turn make the room feel lighter and more open.
You can even add one in a corner of the living room or bedroom. A large vertical leaner adds height to the space as well which makes the ceilings feel as if they are taller than they really are.
In the bedroom, adding medium sized vertical mirrors behind your nightstands and lamps not only bring more light into the room, but also convey a slight romantic feel.
The more floor space, the better
Exactly as it says. The more you see your floor, the more your room feels larger and lighter. When you place heavy, dark furniture with feet closer to the floor, the more the room feels heavy and almost brings you literally down. But when you place furniture with higher legs or opaque materials such as sheer curtains or glass tables, the more the room feels lighter and helps us feel more awake and relaxed.
In the dining room, using a counter height table vs a regular height can make the room feel taller. Our peripheral vision and body language play a part in this area. As you stand at the regular height dining table, your body tends to bend downwards which in turn your surrounding angle downwards. But with a counter height table, you automatically stand taller and see more of your space.
Bring some height
Hanging your curtains can also play a roll in how your room looks. By hanging them closer to the ceiling and at least 12" away from the window sides makes the room feel taller and more grand.
Lighten up the room
Ever walked into a room and felt like you were in a cave? That is probably a multitude of reasons, but it all boils down to color. As mentioned earlier, darker furniture makes the room feel down, cramped, or heavy. The same goes with color. That doesn't mean you can't use your favorite dark shades. Using a lighter tone of that favorite color on the walls will not only make the room feel lighter and bigger, but you can also then use your favorite dark shade in the accessories or furniture for the stark contrast. But keep in mind to use it in minimal amounts so you don't make the room feel small again.
We touched on hanging your curtains higher, however, using a lighter color as well will make light come into the room and make the room feel open.
Changing up the layout
Now my favorite part, coming up with alternate solutions. Changing up the traditional layout for the space can make a room feel bigger.
Instead of a loveseat and sofa combination, use 2 smaller accent chairs with the sofa. This allows you to see more floor space (as mentioned above) as well as make your guests feel more comfortable and safe in a single chair rather than awkward next to someone they may not want to.
Instead of traditional bulky nightstands, use floating wall shelves. This allows, yep you guessed it, more floor space.
You can also hang your lamps instead of using table lamps. This may not necessarily make the room feel bigger, but it does allow you more space on the nightstand.
Want a more open space plan in your living/dining area? Instead of designating 2 specific areas, use a lift top coffee table as your dining and work space.
You can also use a behind the sofa bar table as your dining space. This is a perfect casual spot for the always moving family, but also a great area to work on homework for the college student.
Recently, I have found a new invention for those small living/dining area or kitchen area. A convertible bookcase/dining table. They have them in multiple styles, and this allows a book shelf option or small kitchen storage option to then turn into a dining table or work station.
This then rolls into my last layout, murphy beds. These were a big hit back in the 80's as an option for guests and office to work together. A murphy bed is a bed system where a mattress is stored in a cabinet style and pulled down to sleep. Now a days, they have murphy beds over sofas, ones with tables that pull down, ones with storage.
Love what you see? Head on over to Basel Place Interiors to book your next consultation.
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