When decorating, a common challenge that many people face is attempting to make a relatively small space appear larger. Fortunately there are several decorating techniques that can be used to achieve a more spacious look.

First, and perhaps most important, the proper use of color will go a long way in making a small room look larger. Lighter colors enhance the appearance of space. Whites, beiges, light blues, and other pastel tones are perfect. These colors are most effective when used in solid application to walls, or in bedding, area rugs, or larger pieces of furniture. This especially holds true when light colors are used on the walls and floors since it enhances the effect of natural light on the room.

Next, it is imperative to minimize clutter, as it makes a room appear smaller. Use your imagination to create storage in inconspicuous places such as underneath a bed, or maximize existing closet space with more shelving. There are a lot of great looking pieces of furniture such as coffee tables and end tables with built in storage to stow away clutter. Also, limiting the number of accessories and decorative pieces you have in the room will help to prevent a cluttered feeling. Furniture selection and placement are also important in making a room appear larger. It is best to place as many pieces of furniture as possible along the walls. Furniture should be placed so as to allow free traffic flow within the room. When selecting furniture, using pieces that are similar in tone to that of the walls or floors will help them blend in, further enhancing the feeling of spaciousness. Selecting multi-functional pieces is a great way to avoid having to use more furniture in the room, and to create more storage space. Entertainment centers with built in shelving are perfect examples of this.

Finally, the proper use of light is a key component to creating a spacious look. A well lit room will always appear larger and more spacious than a dark room. First, look for opportunities to bring in as much natural light as possible. Avoid using heavy, dark draperies or blinds on windows. If you do choose to install window treatments, make sure that they are pulled back, exposing as much of the window as possible. When choosing artificial lighting, select pieces that won’t take up a large amount of space within your room. Recessed lighting is a good way to do this, and creates a great modern look.

Following these four design principles will help visually enhance the size of a smaller room, and will also create an attractive, clean, and modern look.


About The Author:

Alycia Hartzell is a seasoned design professional with experience in both residential and commercial interior design. She writes for Domestic Modern - a leading retailer of modern rugs and designer collections such as Thomas Paul Rugs. Learn more at: http://www.domesticmodern.com/