Big Ideas for Small-Space Living! 7 tips for making your small spaces seem more spacious

With living spaces seemingly getting smaller it can be especially challenging to find room for life’s accumulations.   Similar to the way that a large space can be made to feel cozier and more intimate, it is also possible to make a small space feel larger and more spacious.  It’s just a matter of being creative in how you use the space you have and decorating it appropriately.  Here are some simple ways to keep your small spaces looking and feeling spacious.

1.  Clear the Clutter!  If you’re downsizing you may need to be ruthless. Nothing makes a small space feel more cramped than having too much stuff!  Eliminate clutter and avoid over-decorating with too many trinkets and wall hangings.   Arrange furnishings to open up floor space and avoid blocking views of windows and doors.  With your things neatly arranged and out of sight, the space will feel orderly and more open!
2. Colour Your “Small” World.  Light, cool colours on walls like soft blues and greens will open up your room so it looks larger. Paint ceilings white to make them seem higher and airier. Consider painting the same colour in connecting rooms to give the impression of a larger space.
3. Let the Light Shine.  Any room will look larger if it’s well-lit, either by natural or artificial light. Add lighting features such as wall sconces that project light in all directions and create warm shadows.
4. Go with the Flow!  Move furniture and objects away from pathways in your home and keep the floor as clear as possible. Creating clear pathways is important for maintaining a sense of spaciousness and remember the farther you can see through a space, the larger and more open it will seem.
5. Get Vertical!  Maximize the vertical space in your home to expand your storage capacity. Consider placing cabinets and shelves above desks, countertops and toilets. Floor to ceiling shelving in your bedroom and linen closets can also make a big difference.
6. Reflect That Light.  You can also add the illusion of space with the sparkle and reflection of mirrors. In addition to strategically positioned wall-mounted mirrors, consider setting an oversized mirror on the floor and leaning it against a wall. A mirrored or glass tabletop is also a fun way to add some shine and depth to your room. A glass coffee table for example, practically disappears within a room.
7. Multi-Functional Furniture.  Choose your pieces wisely. Many furniture companies now offer stylish pieces (e.g. beds, sofas, ottomans) that serve multiple purposes to help you conserve space. For example, an ottoman can serve up to 4 functions: a stylish centerpiece to your sitting area, an extra seat, a spacious coffee table, and extra storage.