So you have a small room in your house… that doesn’t mean it has to feel small and enclosed! There are many tactics you can take to dress, decorate and lighten and brighten up that room. Space is given meaning by the ‘illusion’ of light, so knowing how to make it appear lighter, will give your small room the appearance that it is lighter, brighter and bigger! Here’s our top tips.
1) Decorate with lighter contrasts and colours
Darker colours constrict a room, particularly black which absorbs light. White and light colours open up a room, giving the appearance that the space is open and looks airy. However you can constrict this with your furniture so…
2) Invest in smart storage solutions
If there is a way you can combine the uses of furniture such as a chest that has a coffee table on the top, or a sofa bed that opens up when you need it, your room will appear much brighter as you have less furniture within it. Alternatively if you have pull out drawers on a bed, this can be a great way to intelligently store your belongings.
3) It’s all about placement
The longest line in a room is the diagonal line from one corner to the other. Placing furniture on a diagonal line will show space on both sides and draw attention to the most dominant focal point in a room. Think tables for dining rooms, beds for bedrooms. Another key factor is that you do not block doorways or pathways, as this will immediately give the appearance of shrinkage.
4) Furniture with legs
Being able to see the floorspace will give you the appearance of more space. However this works best when you consider the….
5) Use of lighter contrasts and colour schemes
Lighter carpets, walls or wallpaper will also reflect more light. Striped wallpaper in lighter colours can give the appearance of a textured wall which will emphasise the space that you have too. You can mix and match colours such as neutrals, ivory, cream, white, duck egg blue, variations of yellow, and light grey. For example, very light grey and mustard yellow would be a good combination.
6) Think how you can enhance the lighting
Layered lighting at different heights along your wall can give the appearance of more textures for night-time, as well as giving you a cosy ambience with lighter light fittings and lampshades. Similarly…
7) Utilise your windows
Natural light will make any room look bigger and give you the feeling that the room is connected to the outside. Particularly with larger windows. Don’t worry about the view, you can always add plant pots and flowers to make the outside look more appealing.
8) Don’t hide your windows
Drapes are absolutely out of the question with small rooms. Hanging over at the bottom with warmer colours will close off the windows and encroach upon your limited floor space. It can also feel very constricting. A good alternative here would be blinds.
9) Use mirrors
Lastly, use the one feature that can reflect all of the light back that you have created! Mirrors will bounce back as much or as little light that you have, so think about what a wall length.
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We hope this helps you make more of your smaller living spaces. If you have any questions or would like to discuss any potential construction, extension or home renovation works please do not hesitate to contact us today by either calling us on 01535 653 530 or filling out our online contact form.