We all dream of owning a large, spacious home, but the reality for most of us is somewhat different. Yet, that doesn’t mean we can’t make the most of the space we have and create a home that feels larger than it actually is.
A few clever tricks can transform a cramped, cluttered house into a cozy, welcoming space where you’ll love spending time. This post will teach you 15 ways to make your home feel more spacious, no matter its size.
1. Declutter Your Space
We all accumulate stuff, but it’s surprising how much a cluttered space can feel cramped and small. Start by decluttering your home, getting rid of items you no longer need or use. This doesn’t mean you have to live a minimalist lifestyle, just be more mindful of what you keep in your space.
Take one room at a time and separate items into three categories: keep, donate, or throw away. Be ruthless in your decision-making. The fewer items you have, the more space you’ll create. Remember, it’s not about living with less, but living with only the things that add value to your life.
2. Use Light Colours
Lighter colours make a room feel bigger and brighter. Dark colours, on the other hand, can make a room feel closed in. If you’re looking to make your space feel larger, consider painting your walls in light shades of white, cream or even pastel tones.
Aside from paint, other elements like curtains, rugs, and furniture can also contribute to the overall lightness of a room. Opt for light-coloured furnishings where possible. You’ll be surprised at how much of a difference this can make in opening up your space.
3. Let in Natural Light
Natural light is your best friend when it comes to making a room feel larger. It opens up the space and brings a sense of warmth and openness. If you have large windows, make the most of them. Don’t cover them up with heavy curtains or blinds.
If your windows are small or you don’t have many, consider installing mirrors opposite windows to reflect the light and make the room feel brighter and bigger. You can also use sheer curtains to allow light in while maintaining privacy.
4. Use Multifunctional Furniture
Multifunctional furniture is a game-changer for small spaces. Think of beds with storage underneath, tables that can be extended, or even ottomans that can be used as coffee tables. These pieces allow you to maximise your space by serving multiple purposes.
Invest in quality pieces that will last, and that fit with your aesthetic. They may be a bit pricier, but the space you save (and the extra storage you gain) is worth it. Plus, they often become a conversation piece when you have guests over!
5. Hang Shelves Higher
A simple trick to make your ceilings look higher is to hang shelves closer to the ceiling. This draws the eye upward and gives the illusion of a larger space. Plus, it’s a great way to display books, art, or other decorative items.
Don’t limit yourself to just one shelf. Stacking several shelves on top of each other can create a beautiful display and take advantage of vertical space. Just be sure not to overcrowd them; remember, less is more when it comes to making a space feel larger.
6. Use Mirrors
Mirrors are a fantastic way to make a room feel larger. They reflect light and create the illusion of extra space. Place a large mirror on a wall, or group smaller mirrors together for an artistic effect.
Don’t limit mirrors to just your bathroom or vanity. Use them in your living room, dining room, or even your hallway. They can be a beautiful and functional addition to any space.
7. Go for a Minimalist Look
Minimalism is all about living with less. And when you have less stuff, your home will naturally feel more spacious. This doesn’t mean you have to get rid of everything, just be mindful of what you keep in your space.
Keep your surfaces clean and clear, and try to keep your décor simple. A few well-chosen pieces can make a big statement without making your space feel cluttered.
8. Use Vertical Space
In smaller homes, it’s important to make use of all available space – including the vertical space. High shelves, tall bookcases, and hanging storage can all help you make the most of your square footage.
Think creatively and use your walls for storage. Hang pots and pans in the kitchen, use a hanging shoe organizer in the closet, or install a wall-mounted desk in your home office.
9. Choose Furniture with Exposed Legs
Furniture with exposed legs gives the illusion of more floor space, making the room feel less crowded. This is especially useful in the living room, where large pieces like sofas and coffee tables can take up a lot of space.
Look for pieces with thin, tall legs. They’ll take up less visual space and make your room feel more open and airy.
10. Use Stripes to Elongate the Space
Just like in fashion, stripes can give the illusion of length. A striped rug or wallpaper can make your room look longer than it actually is.
Try to keep the stripes in a neutral color to avoid overwhelming the space. A black and white striped rug, for example, can add a touch of sophistication to any room.
11. Keep the Floor Clear
The more floor space you can see, the larger your room will feel. Try to keep the floor as clear as possible. Opt for wall-mounted or hanging furniture and try to limit the number of items on the floor.
This also applies to rugs. While rugs can add warmth and texture to a room, too many or too large rugs can make a room feel smaller. Choose a rug that fits your space well, or consider forgoing a rug altogether.
12. Opt for Clear or Glass Furniture
Clear furniture, like glass tables or acrylic chairs, give the illusion of taking up less space than they actually do. They’re a great option for smaller homes.
Not only do they make a room feel more spacious, but they also add a modern, sleek touch to your décor.
13. Go for Large-Scale Art
Instead of cluttering your walls with many small pieces of art, opt for one or two large-scale pieces. This draws the eye upward and can make your space feel larger.
Choose pieces that you love and that fit your style. Art is a great way to express your personality and make your home feel truly yours.
14. Incorporate Plenty of Storage
A clutter-free home feels larger. Incorporate plenty of storage solutions to keep your belongings out of sight. From built-in shelves to storage ottomans, there are countless ways to add storage to your space.
Remember, the goal is to keep your space clear and uncluttered. Use your storage wisely and only keep items that you truly need and use.
15. Let Your Furniture Breathe
Avoid the temptation to fill every corner of your room with furniture. Instead, let your furniture breathe. Leave some space around each piece to create a sense of flow and openness.
This also helps with traffic flow in your home. A space that’s easy to move around in will naturally feel larger and more welcoming.