Everywhere you look, there’s some television program or article promoting tiny house living, (seriously, just Google “tiny house lifestyle” and you’ll find over 3.3 million results). If you’ve joined that movement and mastered the art of downsizing, congratulations. Most homeowners, however, still find small spaces to be a bit of a challenge. It’s very easy for these areas to become cluttered, making them feel cramped and confining. Fortunately, there are a few simple solutions for small spaces that can make them seem much bigger than their actual square footage.
Maximize Wall Height
A great way to make a smaller room feel more open is to create the illusion of higher wall height. This can be done by simply adjusting your curtains to hang at the top of the wall where it meets the ceiling instead of directly above the windows. In addition to elongating your drapes, consider adding in some floor-to-ceiling bookcases or shelving. This not only makes the room feel larger, but also provides additional storage space. It’s a great way to keep a room neat and organized!
Don’t Waste Space
Keeping a small room organized is the key to making it feel more open and uncluttered. A simple solution to organizing your tiny room is to use spaces in unique ways. For example, if you have a staircase, don’t waste the space underneath the stairs or within the steps themselves. Instead, build drawers and/or storage cabinets where you can hide blankets, games and other items. Another space that is often underused is a bedroom nook. These small areas are perfect for creating comfy reading retreats and additional storage. You can also create depth in a smaller room by adding a different shade of paint or design elements to this cozy little space. If you have a small closet in a spare room that is going unused, turn it into an office space or a design area. By adding in a few shelves, storage and a simple surface for working, you’ll not only transform the room, but also create a wonderful spot to let your creativity flow!
Select the Perfect Paint
Believe it or not, there’s a very inexpensive and simple trick that will instantly make your smaller rooms feel bigger – paint the trim and baseboards the same color as the walls. This will give them additional height in an instant! Another way to create the illusion of more space is to choose neutral and light colors throughout the room. Lighter hues reflect light, which makes smaller rooms feel more open. For something a bit more creative, try adding in a design element, such as reclaimed wood, to a single wall. This creates a focal point and can also make a small space seem less crowded.
Choose the Right Furniture
When it comes to designing for small spaces, your choice of furniture is very important. It’s best to select pieces that are raised off the floor, smaller in scale or those that can double in function. In the kitchen, look for pieces, such as a slide out work space, that can be easily stored out of view when not in use. For living room or dining room furniture, remember to keep to lighter shades that blend with the wall color. This will also help create the illusion of a larger living space. Adding in mirrors can also make smaller areas seem more open.
A small space can have a big personality – and impact – when you use the right design elements to showcase it. If you live in the Northeast Florida area, and are interested in more simple solutions for updating your home, please visit Kelly Perkins Real Estate or call 904-446-4005 for an appointment.
About Kelly Perkins
Kelly lives in Northeast Florida and owns Kelly Perkins Real Estate. She has extensive experience in interior design and home renovation. As a Realtor®, she has helped many people make their dream of owning a piece of Florida paradise a reality.
