How to Make a Small Space Seem Bigger

Contributor

By Erinn Valencich
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (42 Ratings)

Make a Small Space Seem Bigger

Small spaces don't have to feel dark, dingy or cramped. There are simple ways to make small spaces feel brighter and roomier--from top to bottom! Follow these tips for "enlarging" your small spaces.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Paint
Wallpaper
Light-stained wood
Light-colored area rugs
Drapery
Oversized furniture piece

Step 1

Create space and contrast by painting different areas to give each their own zone. Paint your entryway or hallway a fun color, the same for the kitchen and small nooks. It will seem like you are creating more space within your space, instead of just one overall color.
Step 2

Repeat prints and motifs such as a contemporary border or metallic wallpaper in the kitchen and again in the hallway. This is a fun way to make a small space seem grander without being over the top.
Step 3

Use light colors on floors. Whether you have hardwoods or carpet, try to keep it as light as possible. Hardwood floors can be stained white, and if your carpet is not white, use rugs that are white or light colored throughout your space. If you get good sunlight in your space, remember that sunlight tends to bounce off floors and will create a light and airy effect.
Step 4

Incorporate artwork, stripes or draperies from floor to ceiling. The trick is to make the eye glance upward, which makes any space seem larger. Wallpaper always emphasizes high ceilings, and hanging large pieces of art from the edge of the ceiling will again bring the focus up. Drapes that hang at the edge of the ceiling and end at the floor also emphasize this effect.
Step 5

Mix in one or two oversized pieces of furniture. This might seem counterintuitive, but having one or two large scale pieces of furniture can actually trick the eye by making the rest of the furniture seem smaller. Plus, having one large, interesting conversation piece tends to take the focus off the smallness of your space, because it's unexpected. The unexpected is always fun!