How to Decorate a Room to Look Larger

Floor-length mirrors make a room appear larger.

Living in a small area can leave you feeling trapped. You can change the look of a small room by using color, accessories and light sources to create depth and the illusion of a larger space. Decorating a small room to make it appear larger is possible on a limited budget. By making a few simple changes, you'll be able to make a room feel less cramped and more like home.

Things You'll Need

• Paint Curtains Shades Mirrors Wall-mounted sconces

Instructions

1. Change the floor color to a light, bright color. White floors make a room look larger. Use a natural material to cover floors, such as ceramic tile, to bring light into the room.

2. Paint the walls a light color. Using colors like white, yellow or light blue helps a room appear larger by making use of the light in the room. Add one dark accent wall to open up the room by making it appear deeper.

3. Use mirrors on the walls to add depth to the room and make it look bigger. Group the mirrors together or use floor-length mirrors to make the space seem taller.

4. Hang floor-length curtains above the windows. This visually extends the wall and makes the room look bigger. Use white shades on the window to add an airy look.

5. Use the minimal amount of furniture required for the room. Do not overfill the room and take up space that otherwise makes the room seem larger. Add wall-mounted sconces to make the room brighter.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid allowing clutter to collect in small areas. Keep the space as clean as possible, since light colors show dirt.

References

• Apartment Therapy: 5 Ways to Make a Small, Dark Room Feel Larger
• Bob Vila: Choosing Interior Paint Color
• Apartment Therapy: 10 Ways to Use Mirrors to Make Your Space Look Larger
• Good Housekeeping: Dining Room Décor