Tips on How to Make a Small Space Look Larger

Here are some more useful nuggets of decorating advice from our fabulous Lucy:

There is no need to fret when faced with the struggle of decorating a small room. Here are some tips to help you trick the eye into believing a room is much larger than it actually is.

*Use different shades of paint on different walls to create an effect of contrast within an overall unity. (note- this is not the same as an accent wall)

*Ceiling-to-floor, wall-to-wall curtains with no hardware showing can serve as a wall. This can come in handy when decorating a loft!

*Use pieces that can serve dual uses, i.e. stools in which you can store items and an up-to-date sofa bed or even a Murphy bed (see earlier blog post for more info).

*Avoid Clutter!

*For additional storage, create floating storage shelves above doorways.

*Move furniture away from walkways, it will make the room look larger because furniture and accessories can block the view into a room. Place large pieces across walls and choose short pieces such as ottomans, armless chairs, or short tables to keep most of the floor visible. The more floor you can see, the larger the room will appear.

*Light, cool colors make a room appear open, preferably, soft hues of blues and greens.

*Choose colors in the same color family. Also, choose coordinating furniture and wall colors because contrasting these colors tends to break up your space. Steer clear of printed fabrics except in pillows.

*A room will seem much larger if it is well-lit. Open up windows by avoiding heavy draperies and add more lamps. You may also use sheer window treatments to make the room seem larger.