Space-Saving Solutions: Tips for Making Your Small Living Space Look Bigger

Does your small living room feel too crowded? Is it hard to move around or does it seem dark?

Don’t worry, there are smart ways to make your space feel bigger and make your life easier. Whether you live in a small apartment or have a tiny home office, these tips can help you save space and have more room to move around.

Layout Strategies

Choosing a main focus for the room, like a window or center table, and arrange furniture around that.

Make sure your furniture matches the size of the room. It's not good if a big sofa takes up all the space, or if a coffee table sticks out and you keep bumping into it.Look for sofas and chairs with slim arms and legs that make the room feel more open by showing more of the floor.

If your room is small, consider using a round dining table instead of a rectangular one. It takes up less space but still works well for meals.

Storage Solutions

To make the most of your space, think about how you can use corners effectively. You can get furniture like L-shaped sofas, TV cabinets, or shelves that fit neatly into corners. These designs save space and look good too.

If you have awkward spaces in your walls, consider installing built-in shelves. They're great for displaying books or other things you like. Built-in wardrobes or tall cabinets are also handy for extra storage without taking up much room.

Try to get sliding doors for your built-in storage. They're easier to open, even if there's furniture in front of them. And if you choose doors without handles, it'll give your room a sleeker look.

Declutter

Start by clearing away clutter. It's not always easy, as we tend to hold onto things we think are important. But getting rid of unnecessary items can create more space on the floor. Take a cue from Marie Kondo and focus on keeping things neat, tidy, and simple.

Choosing Color Scheme

When designing a small room, stick to a consistent color palette. This helps create a sense of harmony throughout the space. You can stick to one or two shades that match well together.

Opt For Beautiful Textures

While it's essential to declutter to make a small living room look bigger, you don't want the space to feel cold and empty. Instead, add cozy textures that make the room feel warm and inviting. Think about using soft rugs, smooth wood pieces, and comfortable cushions. These items can instantly make the room feel cozier, especially when paired with simple, modern design ideas.

Mirror Magic

Mirrors work wonders for making small living rooms seem bigger. Just be sure to place them where they can reflect light and space effectively. Larger mirrors work best for this purpose, adding brightness and a feeling of openness to the room.

Light Up Your Space

Selecting lighting fixtures for your living space goes beyond mere functionality; it's an opportunity to infuse style and character into the room. When choosing lighting, aim for fixtures that not only provide adequate illumination but also serve as captivating focal points, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the space.

For instance, a stylish pendant light suspended above a dining table can not only brighten the area but also become a striking centerpiece, adding a touch of sophistication and charm. Similarly, a grand chandelier in the living room can draw attention upward, creating a sense of elegance and luxury while casting a warm glow throughout the room.

Additionally, consider how the design and material of the lighting fixture complement the existing decor and furniture in the room. Opting for fixtures with unique shapes, intricate details, or unconventional materials can further elevate the visual interest and personality of your living space. Whether it's a modern, minimalist pendant light or a classic, ornate chandelier, the right lighting fixture can truly transform your room into a stylish and inviting haven.

Embrace The Space Enhancing Fifth Wall

To make a small living room feel larger, pay attention to the ceiling and floor. Light-colored finishes on both surfaces can make the room appear brighter and more spacious. Consider using a gloss finish on the ceiling for added brightness, but be cautious with the floor to avoid highlighting imperfections.

Showcase Large Artwork

Rather than scattering numerous small pieces of art across your walls, consider the impact of featuring one large artwork as a focal point. This deliberate choice not only declutters the space but also establishes a commanding centerpiece that immediately captures attention.

For example, imagine a living room adorned with a single oversized painting hanging prominently above the sofa. This large artwork becomes the focal point of the room, commanding attention and setting the tone for the entire space. Similarly, in a dining area, a striking mural covering one wall can serve as a captivating focal point, transforming the room into a visually engaging environment. By opting for a singular large artwork, you create a sense of cohesion and purpose in the space while making a bold statement that reflects your personal style and aesthetic preferences.

Accentuate High Ceilings

To maximize the potential of high ceilings in your living space, consider implementing design strategies that accentuate the vertical space. One approach is to hang curtains higher than the window frame, closer to the ceiling. This draws the eye upward, creating the illusion of taller walls and a more expansive room. Additionally, using décor elements with vertical lines, such as tall bookcases or floor lamps, further emphasizes the height of the room and adds visual interest.

Use Multi-purpose Furniture  

Opt for multi-purpose furniture to maximize space and functionality in your living room. Storage ottomans and blanket chests serve as clever solutions for hiding clutter while providing extra seating options for guests. Additionally, consider investing in a nest of tables as a space-saving alternative to a large coffee table. Alternatively, a comfortable sofa bed can serve as a dual-purpose piece, ideal for accommodating overnight guests when you don't have a dedicated guest room.