Style at Home Feature

August 8, 2019

Uncategorized

1. Define Your Zones

Even in a small space, defining separate areas for different functions can make the room feel more organized and spacious. Use rugs, furniture placement, or shelving to create a sense of division. For example, a small studio apartment can still have a designated living, sleeping, and work area with the right layout and thoughtful placement.

2. Choose Furniture with Exposed Legs

Bulky furniture that sits directly on the floor can make a room feel heavy and crowded. Instead, opt for furniture with exposed legs, such as mid-century modern sofas, chairs, and tables. This creates an airy, open feeling and gives the illusion of more floor space.

3. Use Light, Neutral Colors

Lighter shades—like soft whites, beiges, and pastels—help reflect light and make a room feel larger and brighter. If you love color, incorporate it through decor, textiles, or accent walls rather than overwhelming the space with dark tones.

4. Opt for Multi-Functional Furniture

In a small space, every piece of furniture should earn its keep! Consider investing in items like a storage ottoman, a fold-out desk, or a daybed that doubles as a sofa. Look for dining tables with extendable leaves, beds with built-in drawers, or nesting tables that can be tucked away when not in use.

5. Maximize Vertical Space

When floor space is limited, go up! Use tall bookshelves, wall-mounted storage, or floating shelves to free up valuable square footage. Floor-to-ceiling shelving or cabinets not only provide ample storage but also draw the eye upward, making the ceiling feel higher.

6. Use Large-Scale Art

It might seem counterintuitive, but incorporating large-scale artwork can make a small room feel bigger. A large painting or statement mirror creates a focal point that expands the visual boundaries of the space, making it feel more open and less cluttered.

7. Incorporate Reflective Surfaces

Mirrors are a tried-and-true trick for making spaces feel larger. Position a mirror opposite a window to reflect natural light and instantly brighten the room. Consider using glossy or glass finishes on furniture to create a similar effect.

8. Keep Clutter to a Minimum

Nothing shrinks a space faster than clutter. Be mindful of what you bring into the room and invest in stylish storage solutions. Baskets, decorative boxes, and wall-mounted organizers can help keep things tidy while maintaining your design aesthetic.

9. Choose a Statement Light Fixture

Good lighting can transform a small space. Instead of multiple small lamps, opt for a single statement light fixture, like a sculptural pendant or a sleek chandelier. Wall sconces and recessed lighting are also great options for freeing up valuable surface space.

10. Use Sheer or Minimal Window Treatments

Heavy drapes can overwhelm a small room. Instead, go for sheer curtains, light linen panels, or even no window coverings at all if privacy isn’t a concern. This allows more natural light to flood the space, making it feel brighter and more expansive.