13 Ways To Make a Small Space Look Bigger

Small spaces can be frustrating to deal with. While you can't physically increase the size of a room without major renovations, there are ways to play tricks on the eye and make a small space appear larger. Here are some tips to help you make a small space look bigger.

Choose Lighter Colors

In small rooms, avoid using a dark color as the main shade in the room. Dark colors absorb light and can make a space feel smaller and more confined. Instead, choose lighter colors for the walls, flooring, and furniture. Lighter shades reflect light, making the room feel brighter and more open.

Use Mirrors

Mirrors are a fantastic way to make a small room appear larger. Mirrors work by reflecting light and creating the illusion of more space. Use a large mirror on one wall to make the room seem twice its size or use smaller mirrors strategically placed around the room to create depth and dimension.

Utilize Vertical Space

When you're dealing with a small space, use every inch of vertical space you have. This means installing shelves or cabinets that go all the way up to the ceiling, using tall bookcases or armoires, and even considering lofted beds or bunk beds if necessary.

Keep It Simple

In a small area, clutter can easily become overwhelming and make the space seem even tinier. Keep your decor simple and streamlined to avoid visual "noise" and make the space feel more open. Avoid unnecessary knick-knacks and choose furniture with clean, simple lines.

Let In Natural Light

Natural light is your best friend when it comes to making a space appear bigger. Keep curtains and blinds open during the day to let in as much natural light as possible. If privacy is a concern, consider sheer curtains or frosted window films that still allow light to enter while maintaining some level of privacy.

Choose Multi-Functional Furniture

In a small space, every piece of furniture should serve multiple purposes whenever possible. Some examples include storage ottomans, coffee tables with built-in storage, and fold-out tables you can use for dining or work. These will help maximize space and minimize clutter.

Add Depth with Textures

Adding texture can actually make a small room feel bigger. Incorporate different textures through throw pillows, rugs, curtains, and other textiles to create depth and interest without overwhelming the space.

Hang Curtains High

To give the appearance of taller ceilings, hang curtains near the ceiling instead of just above the window. This will draw the eyes up and make the room feel taller.

Incorporate Rugs

Rugs can be a great addition to any small space, as long as you use them strategically. Too many rugs or rugs that are too large can make a space feel cluttered and smaller. Instead, choose a few small accent rugs in light colors to break up the flooring and add visual interest without overwhelming the room. Alternatively, you could use one large rug with a simple pattern to create the illusion of more space.

Add Plants and Greenery

The addition of plants and greenery can bring life to a small space and make it feel more open. Choose plants that don't occupy much floor space, such as hanging plants or small potted ones on shelves, to introduce color and texture without using up valuable space.

Use Large Artwork

Instead of filling a small space with lots of small pictures and paintings, pick one large piece of artwork to hang on the wall. This will create a focal point and draw the eye upward, making the space feel larger. Just be sure to choose a piece that complements the color scheme and style of the room.

Keep Clutter Hidden

In small spaces, try to keep clutter hidden as much as possible. This can mean using storage solutions, such as baskets, bins, or decorative boxes, to conceal items and keep surfaces clear. Consider installing floating shelves or built-in cabinets for additional storage options.

Experiment With Furniture Layout

Sometimes, a small space can feel cluttered because of the way you have the furniture arranged. Experiment with different furniture arrangements to see what works best for the flow of the room. You may find moving a couch or swapping out chairs for stools can create more open floor space and make the room feel larger. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and try unconventional layouts.

While you may not be able to physically increase the size of a small space without knocking down walls, there are many ways to make it appear bigger through design and decor choices. Use these techniques to create a more open and spacious feel in any small room and enjoy the newfound sense of space and freedom.

When you have a small space, you need to make the most out of it. This means being strategic in how you arrange and decorate the space. At Safavieh Home, we're all about creating beautiful and functional spaces, no matter the size. We carry a large selection of luxury home furniture that can help maximize your space and make it look bigger.

Our multi-functional pieces and space-saving designs are perfect for small spaces. Check out creations from well-known artisan brands such as Bernhardt and Hooker Furniture, either in-person or at one of our East Coast showrooms, and get inspired to make your small space feel bigger than it actually is!

Of course, we know making a space feel bigger isn't always the easiest feat, especially if you don't have much experience with interior design. That's why we provide inspiration and design tips on our Instagram.

We also offer a complementary interior design service, where one of our knowledgeable designers can help you find the perfect pieces and layout for your small space. Don't hesitate to reach out and get professional help in creating a beautiful and spacious-feeling room. All you have to do is email us and provide the dimensions of your room, the style you're going for, and any other information that will help us create the perfect space for you!