Not all homes have the grand foyers, great rooms and huge living spaces we see in designer magazines. More often, homes have at least one small room that presents a challenge when decorating.
Homeowners can enjoy smaller spaces and make them look larger with the right design approach. You can create the illusion of space with simple modifications, such as adding natural light or selecting multifunctional furniture. To get started, consider the following design tips.
Declutter your space
The best place to start is by taking stock of the items in the room. You might be surprised by how much space you have when you declutter.
Experts recommend sorting things into keep, put away, recycle, trash and donate piles. This technique can help you organize and simplify your space. Simplicity is critical for making any room look bigger.
Utilize multifunctional pieces
Once you’ve removed some items from a small room, think about what furniture or objects in the room can serve a dual purpose. For example, furniture such as benches, ottomans and coffee tables might come equipped with storage solutions.
Hidden storage makes a room feel more spacious without removing any frequently used items.
Take advantage of reflections
A strategically placed mirror can visually expand your space. If a small area has a window, set the mirror near it. The trick is to ensure natural light reflects off the mirror to make the room look large and inviting.
Frame your windows
Lighter, neutral colors work best for window drapes in small rooms. Heavy drapes make small spaces appear smaller.
To achieve the opposite effect, try adding sheer drapes to the room. As a result, natural light will shine in, and you’ll maintain some privacy in the room.
Choose a vertical pattern, such as stripes, if you want interior window treatments with a little pizazz. The stripes will draw your eyes upward and make the ceilings look higher.
Incorporate large items
It might seem contradictory, but you don’t need small items in a small space. It might make the room look full of miniatures. Instead, try adding one or two large pieces.
There is some design strategy involved in oversized item selection. For example, choose a low-profile sofa to exaggerate the distance between the couch and the ceiling. Low-profile furniture will make the walls appear elongated.
For more information on design trends or to find skilled professionals to help with your remodeling or interior design needs, contact the Home Builders Association of Greater Chattanooga.