How to Open Up a Small Space

Small spaces can be cozy and pleasant. They can also be cramped and cluttered. If you live in a small home, is there anything that can be done to make it feel more spacious? There is. In fact, here are five simple ways to make smaller floor plans seem larger.

1. Keep Windows Un-Obstructed

Windows can be the greatest source of light in our homes. If you live in a small space and have things placed in front of the windows, you may be keeping a lot of light from entering your home. A small space with dim light feels even smaller. You'd be surprised at how much a little extra light can open up a place. Having the curtains pulled back, with a view of the outdoors can do a lot to eliminate that closed in feeling. So, if possible try to keep the windows free.

2. Go with Lighter Colors

This is helpful for furniture, floors, window coverings, and wall color. If you choose dark colors the room is naturally going to feel much smaller. Using lighter and brighter colors offers a more expansive feel. If your carpet is dark and you can't replace it, purchasing a lighter colored area rug to place over it is a great alternative. If painting isn't an option, try decorating with art that uses lighter colors. Hanging softly colored window coverings allows more light to come in and increases the room's open feel.

3. Decorative Mirrors

If you've ever dined or shopped downtown in a city like San Francisco you know the value of mirrors in small spaces. Using them in your home is a wonderful way to give the illusion of additional space. You can find mirrors of all different sizes, shapes, and decorative styles to use. They are available in many department stores, craft stores, and home furnishing stores.

4. Simple Spaces

Although we love our little knick-knacks, placing them all around the house creates a crowded and cluttered feel. If you live in a small space it is best to keep areas and surfaces simple and free of excess items. Decorating with styles that have moderate designs is also helpful for avoiding that cluttered look and promoting a more spacious atmosphere. Try not to overwhelm the walls with pictures and decor.

5. Lighting

We discussed how light contributes greatly to making a space feel more expansive. The lighting that you choose for your home is very important. Although they are more expensive initially, choosing fluorescent energy saving bulbs provides a more natural lighted feel and will save you money in the long run. They work really great to illuminate and make a small room feel spacious. Tall floor lamps work well because they cast their light on the ceiling, which creates the illusion of greater height. Place lamps in dark corners for the best effect.

Living in a small space can be wonderful if you know what to do with it. Try these suggestions in your home. You may find that you didn't need the bigger floor plan after all.