When Size Matters: Tips for Taking on Small Spaces

For many reasons some homeowners choose to live in smaller homes or townhomes – for lifestyle, convenience, budget and more. Yet a compact residence need not limit your design options. There are many techniques to make a tiny space appear larger. Following are a few tips to bring out the very best in a small space:

• Use light colors and neutrals in a monochromatic scheme. While dark colors can provide a “wow” factor, they are not ideal in a small space and can make a room appear smaller than it is. The lighter the shade of the room, the more airy and open it will feel.

•  Choose one unifying paint color. Using one color makes a room appear more expansive, so keep contrasting colors to a minimum. For example, draperies should ideally be a similar hue as the wall. Also consider furniture that blends seamlessly with floors and walls.

• Let the light in. An abundance of natural light can especially enhance a small space. Use window treatments, blinds and shutters sparingly. If you’re remodeling, build in extra-large and well placed windows.

• Stripes widen a space. If a space is ultra small, not all types of rugs will do, a good remedy is striped walls or flooring, e.g. a striped rug or painted/contrasting wood can make a room feel larger.

• Vertical lines lengthen. Vertical lines can also make a room feel taller. For example, purchase a four-poster bed. Or Install crown molding around the perimeter of the ceiling – this will draw the eyes up.

• Use glass. Since glass gives the illusion of space, incorporating glass tabletops, doors and glass cabinet panels pulls eyes beyond the glass.

•  Pocket doors. These doors conserve space by sliding in and out of the wall, so you don’t have to leave space for doors to open.

• Clear clutter. A clean, uncluttered space appears much larger than one filled with accessories and knick-knacks. Keep your design simple and avoid unnecessary frills.

• Mirror, mirror. Groups series of mirrors together or place an oversized mirror behind a key piece of furniture to create depth. If you are feeling bold and really want to make your room look larger install a mirrored wall.

•  Multifunctional pieces. Use furniture that serves multifunctional purposes, like a platform bed with large drawers underneath or an ottoman that can be used for storage.

• Built-ins. Built-in bookshelves provide much needed extra space in a small room and can meld beautifully with a room’s overall design.

• Limit pattern. If you really love patterns, try smaller prints. Too many patterns in a small room will overwhelm the space.

• Purchase a few quality pieces of furniture.  Avoid large, overstuffed pieces. Furniture with legs feels less heavy and cumbersome than pieces that sit directly on the floor.  Do opt for a few lightweight pieces that are portable.

Most importantly, when you design a small space, look at everything with an editor’s eye. If you own an accessory or a piece of furniture you’re not crazy about, give it away or donate it.

Remember, less is more – especially in the case of a small space.