How to Make Small Spaces Feel Bigger: 10 Best Design Tips

Let's get straight to the point

Designing a small space requires a strategic approach to optimise every millimetre and create an open, airy environment. Start by decluttering to reduce visual clutter, using built-in storage and transparent materials to maintain a clean look. 

Maximise your floor space with multifunctional furniture like sofa beds and nested tables while keeping the ground clear with wall-mounted shelves. Use vertical space by installing tall storage units and high-hanging curtains to enhance ceiling height. Choose low-profile and transparent furniture to maintain an open feel, and stick to light or neutral tones to create a cohesive flow. 

Incorporating reflective surfaces, such as mirrors, and maximising natural light through minimal window treatments can expand the sense of space. Add texture and minimal patterns for depth without overcrowding, and ensure lighting is layered to eliminate dark corners. 

You can transform any small room into a spacious, inviting retreat by prioritising functionality and personal style.

Optimise Your Space

A well-optimised space is the first rule for making a room feel larger.

Declutter for a Cleaner Look

• Eliminate Visual Clutter: Too many items can make a room feel smaller. Store knick-knacks in built-in storage to maintain a clean look.
• Keep Surfaces Clear: A cluttered coffee table can dominate a petite living room. Opt for transparent materials or low-profile furniture.

Create Zones for Multi-functional Spaces

• Use furniture to define areas in open-plan spaces.
• In a small bedroom, a bed with storage can double as a seating zone.

Visual Tricks for Expanding Space

Clever visual techniques can create the illusion of more space, making your room feel larger than it is.

Reflective Surfaces

• Mirrors: Place mirrors strategically to bounce light and expand the sense of space. A mirror near a window can amplify natural light.
• Reflective Materials: Choose glossy kitchen cabinets or glass-topped tables.

Vertical Stripes and Patterns

• Vertical stripes on walls or curtains draw the eye upward, increasing perceived ceiling height.
• Subtle patterns in lighter paint colours can add depth without overwhelming the room.

Make the Most of Your Floor Space

Maximising floor space is essential in a small room.

Opt for Multi-functional Furniture

• Sofa Beds: These provide seating during the day and a bed at night, which is ideal for small apartments.
• Nested Tables: Great for a petite living room, these can be tucked away when unused.

Keep the Floor Clear

• Mount other furniture like shelves and cabinets on walls to free up ground space.
• Avoid heavy, bulky furniture that consumes too much floor space.

Utilise Vertical Space in Small Living Rooms

Small living rooms can benefit greatly from vertical space design.

Build Upward with Storage

• Use tall bookshelves or built-in storage that extends to the ceiling.
• Store less-used items higher up, keeping everyday essentials at arm’s reach.

Hang Curtains High

• Install curtains close to the ceiling rather than just above the window to give an open feel.
• Choose light-coloured or sheer curtains for a sense of flow.

Choose the Right Furniture for Small Spaces

Furniture selection plays a critical role in how spacious a room feels.

Prioritise Low-Profile Furniture

• Low Sofas and Coffee Tables: These pieces create a sense of openness by leaving more space above them.
• Dining Chairs: Opt for sleek, streamlined designs that don’t overwhelm the room.

Use Transparent and Woven Materials

• Transparent materials, like acrylic chairs, allow light to pass through, making the room look less crowded.
• Woven materials add texture without contributing to visual clutter.

Create a Sense of Flow

A cohesive design helps a small space feel larger and more harmonious.

Use the Same Colour Palette

• To unify the room, stick to neutral tones or lighter paint colours. An all-white room can feel airy and expansive.
• Ensure that walls, furniture, and decor share similar hues for a seamless look.

Open Up Walkways

• Avoid blocking pathways with furniture.
• Use rugs to define walkways, adding to the room’s flow subtly.

Add Texture and Pattern

Incorporating texture and pattern can make a room feel inviting without making the space feel smaller.

Layer with Subtle Textures

• Use woven materials like jute rugs or linen curtains.
• Incorporate textured cushions to add interest without overcrowding.

Keep Patterns Minimal

• Use small-scale patterns that complement lighter paint colours.
• Add visual interest with art pieces that echo the room’s style.

Consider the Power of Lighting

Lighting is a transformative tool in small-space design.

Maximise Natural Light

• Keep window treatments light and simple to allow maximum light to enter.
• Use mirrors to reflect light across the room.

Layer Artificial Lighting

• Combine overhead lighting, wall sconces, and table lamps to eliminate dark corners.
• Opt for warm, soft lighting to make the space feel cosy yet open.

Final Tips for Small Space Design

Focus on Functionality

In small-space design, every millimetre counts. Choose furniture and decor that serve dual purposes or provide hidden storage.

Avoid Overcrowding

• Too many pieces of furniture can make a room feel smaller. Stick to essentials and scale down where possible.
• In a tiny bathroom, floating shelves can provide storage without encroaching on floor space.

Personalise with Style

While practicality is key, don’t forget to infuse your style into the design. A petite living room with carefully curated art or a small bedroom with a bold headboard can still feel spacious.

Key Takeaway

Implementing these design strategies allows you to transform your small space into an open and inviting haven. Every detail contributes to the illusion of more space, from utilising vertical space to maximising natural light and decluttering. Whether you’re designing a tiny bathroom or a petite living room, the right choices will make your home feel larger, more functional, and uniquely yours.