There are many great reasons to live in a smaller space. There’s less cleaning, they’re more affordable, and they can also feel homier. However, even if you’ve specifically chosen a smaller space, no one wants to feel crowded or claustrophobic in their own home.
Whether you’re renting, downsizing, or just trying to live minimally, there are plenty of ways of creating an illusion of more space, so you don’t constantly feel cramped or boxed in. If you are looking to upsize or downsize, the professionals at Michael St. Jean Realty real estate agency can help. If you are looking to make the most of a small space, implement some or all of our tips to maximize your space.
Light it Up
By using lighter colors on your walls and lightening up a space, you can really give the illusion of a bigger and brighter feeling in a room. Bright, light walls reflect more light and make a space feel more airy and open. Instead of overhead lighting, focus on using several lamps around a room to spread the light out more and draw the eye around a room, especially in darker areas and corners.
Another trick is to use mirrors to reflect both open space and light to make a room feel larger, more relaxed and provide the illusion of depth.
Decorate Sparingly
Ultimately, when furniture and decor take up space, they do take up actual space. Crowded walls give off the same impression that crowded floors do. Shelves with knick-knacks are going to take up literal and visual space that you probably don’t have to spare. You need to be selective when choosing what to put on your walls.
You need to be intentional about what you include in small spaces and strict about what you get rid of or exclude — selecting a few favorite pieces of art and decorations and making them the space’s focal point. Concentrate on one or two walls, and leave the rest spare.
Clear Tops and Exposed Legs
It’s incredible how much a difference exposed legs on furniture can make in opening up a space. Furniture with skirts or boxy chairs takes up more visual space than their exposed leg counterparts. Open arms and exposed legs on the sofa and chairs allow more light to filter around and under the furniture.
Another way to open up the space is with clear furnishings. Lucite and glass are not only in style right now, but they also take up less visual space than solid furniture. For small bathrooms, a clear shower curtain can help open up the room.
Feeling at home and comfortable in your space is important for your happiness and wellbeing, and it’s hard to do that if you’re constantly feeling boxed in. Take our advice and bring brightness, lightness, and airiness into your home.