How To Make Your Small Space Feel Bigger

Published 12/4/2024 by Katt O'Reilly | 3 min read

While many of us dream of homes with high ceilings and expansive open-plan living areas, it's often necessary to put extra thought into arranging our spaces to maximize their potential. With a few smart furniture choices and a touch of creativity, you can transform your home into a place that feels and looks more spacious, regardless of its size. Here are some ideas to get you started on your next project.

Light & Bright

Using a lighter shade of paint on your walls is an excellent first step. By painting your walls white, you’ll reflect natural light, instantly making your small space feel more open. This technique also blurs the boundaries between adjoining walls and the ceiling, giving the impression of higher ceilings. To enhance this effect, consider adding a floor lamp such as Alabaster Floor Lamp to brighten the room and further enhance the sense of openness.

Create Flow

The last thing we want to do in a small space is crowd it with furniture. There needs to be an easy flow from point A to point B in the room. Along with good feng shui, it’s important to raise the eye off the floor. This can be achieved by removing rugs and long drapes. If having these items is nonnegotiable, swap out any loud designs for something more subtle and light. Examples of achieving flow, Items like a glass coffee table such as Verve Coffee Table take up less visual space and help maintain an open flow.

Mirrors

We can often find ourselves in a space with limited natural light. One effective way to enhance this is by simply adding a mirror. Mirrors do much more than show you how fabulous you look—they reflect the natural light in a room, tricking the eye into perceiving a greater sense of space. If the structure of the room allows, position your mirror near or opposite a window to act as a secondary source of light. You might consider a full-length Mila Mirror, which not only helps with creating the illusion of more space but also serves as a stylish backdrop for outfit-of-the-day (OOTD) photos or a quick check-up before heading out.

Furnish Wisely

By furnishing wisely, you can invest in essential items (like a sofa or dining table) and be more selective with your accessories. It’s all about decorating with restraint. Choose pieces without bold patterns or dark, bulky designs. Opt for materials such as glass or Lucite for items like coffee tables or consider furniture with a mid-century modern twist: low and “leggy.” A great example of this is the Waverley 4-Seater Dining Set with Nicki Chairs.

Ultimately, furniture with glass or reflective properties might be your best solution, especially with little ones around. As long as you keep the space uncluttered and as bright as possible, you’ll achieve your desired look. Our Havana Range is an excellent starting point for your colour palette and offers a variety of storage solutions to keep clutter at bay.