The new
issue of Undeniable is out for the month of July. For the July issue I wrote an
article on how to make a small space seem bigger; I think at some point in time
everyone can relate to finding a solution to this problem. Below is the article
I wrote for Undeniable, be sure to check out the rest of the magazine! There
are some really great articles in this issue!
When it
comes to interior decorating one of the most common problems is trying to
figure out a way to make the room or the interior of a place look larger than
it really is. Whether you’re
getting ready to move into a dorm room, first apartment, or update an older
house I feel like the first move in decorating is mapping out a plan to make a
space look bigger or in some cases how to make a room feel more intimate.
Usually small rooms are associated with apartments; however, older houses tend
to have smaller rooms as well. To help you achieve the illusion of having a
bigger room or space here are a few easy tips that can make a big difference.
Use Light
Colors
Lighter
colors such as light shades of blue, whites, light yellows, etc. tend to open
up a room, giving the room a light and airy feeling. Light colors are better
for reflecting light, hence, giving the optical illusion that a room is larger
than it really is.
Wallpaper
Often
times people tend to make the mistake of thinking that since they want to wallpaper
a small room they should use wallpaper with a small print. However, wallpaper
with a small print gives the illusion of making an area feel smaller. If you
prefer wallpaper over paint be sure to use wallpaper with a large print to make
a small room feel larger.
Limit
Clutter
The less
clutter the better. Limiting the clutter in a small room will make the space
seem more open then it really is. Limiting the clutter will also make a room
feel more organized and also make the room feel more enjoyable to spend time
in.
Paintings/Prints
I love a
gallery wall just as much as the next person but when decorating a small space
a gallery wall is not necessarily the best way to go. One large painting or
print usually works for a small space rather that a lot of small ones. However
if you are in love with the idea of a gallery wall and really want to go for it
is better to make all the frames the same color – remember monochromatic color
combos work better for a smaller space.
Lighting
For small
spaces the more lighting the better. Allowing natural lighting to flow in will
open up a space. To achieve natural lighting either pull window curtains back
or use sheer window dressings.
Mirrors
Mirror
are one of the best decorating elements to use to make a small room look
larger, and besides who doesn’t love a beautiful mirror or mirrored piece of
furniture. Mirrors reflect light and color making a room feel instantly bigger.
Tables/End
Tables
Using a
glass or Lucite tables will help to keep the space feeling open. Using mirrored
end tables will also help to reflect the light and colors in the room.
I agree with using light colors and limiting color - they really open up my apartment!
ReplyDeleteSarah
aroseinthecity0.blogspot.com
I love light colors, they can do wonders for a room!
DeleteI have a 760 square foot apartment, so I completely feel you on this one! You're spot on about the mirrors and lack of gallery wall.
ReplyDeletexo,
Katie
www.a-touch-of-teal.com
It always amazes me the difference mirrors make when it comes to a small room.
DeleteVery inspiring :)
ReplyDeletehttp://imaginarymi.blogspot.com/
Thank you!
DeleteCongrats on a great article Lauren! My bedroom is super small so I definitely use different strategies to save space and make it seem bigger.
ReplyDelete-Alex
www.monstermisa.blogspot.com
Thanks Alex!
Delete