Current homes tend to be smaller and smaller and solutions such as adding an extension or building a second floor are not in many cases a possible option. However, visually expanding the space does not require expensive renovations or structural changes, it is enough to know a few clever decorating tricks to make the space appear larger than it actually is.
1. Use white as a base for decoration
One of the best known tricks to visually expand the space is to use the color white, since it reflects and multiplies light inside . The higher the light intensity, the greater the sensation of space, so that in decoration light is equal to space. If a white space is too monotonous, you can incorporate brightly colored brush strokes to create contrast and visual interest.
2. Keep the space clear
One of the most important keys to visually expand a small space is to have it clear and well organized. The secret to keeping order at home is to have all possible storage solutions : beanbags, seats and beds usually have extra storage space under them, being very useful in small homes.
3. Replace chairs with benches and stools
Benches and stools are also an ideal solution for kitchen tables, dining rooms, and even workspaces when space is at a premium. Since they don’t have a back, they don’t enclose the space around the table, making it appear more uncluttered and lighter.
4. Bet on glass furniture
Glass furniture lets light pass through them and its light appearance also helps to visually multiply the feeling of spaciousness. When choosing a glass cabinet , make sure it has curved shapes and rounded corners to avoid accidents, especially if there are children at home.
5. Choose furniture with rounded shapes
Round tables, chairs with curved backs, stools with rounded seats… All these pieces use less space and are much more comfortable for confined spaces. In addition, by not having corners, they allow you to move around them more easily.
6. Use mirrors
Like white, mirrors also reflect light, multiplying the light intensity of a room. Furthermore, they can trick the eye, perceiving the space as much larger than it actually is.
7. Consider the scale
When decorating a small space, the dimensions of the furniture should be adjusted to the space of the room . For example, a king-size bed will make the bedroom look tiny if it is small. In addition, furniture and decorative objects combined in the same space must keep an adequate proportion to each other. For example, a large bed will need to be accompanied by large bedside tables. Therefore, it is necessary to choose each piece of furniture taking into account the general dimensions of the room and the specific size of the objects that accompany it.
8. Arrange the furniture next to the wall
In the dining area, the chairs need enough space between the table and the wall so that it is comfortable and functional to move around it. But, when the room is small, white can be used instead of chairs, whose backs can lean against the wall and even take advantage of small corners. Other furniture that can stick to the wall when space is at a premium include sofas, desks, and single beds.
9. Opt for furniture with visible legs
Furniture with low visual weight also seems to take up less volume, thus increasing the feeling of spaciousness. For this reason, the pieces with thin metal legs create an image of greater lightness than those with sturdy wooden legs or without legs.
10. Choose blinds or bare windows
If the outdoor space has sufficient privacy, for example, if the window overlooks a private garden, even the windows can be left without curtains, or with only thin sheers or blinds. In this way, continuity is created between the interior space and its exterior environment, making the room appear much larger.