Small spaces can be difficult to decorate, but they pack a lot of potential.
Start with these dos and don’ts to learn how to make the most of small rooms.
Arrangingfurniture in the center of the roomincreases the warmth and makes carrying on a conversation easier.
Credit: Laurey Glenn
Do: Use Small-Space Furniture
John Bessler
Choose furniture that will help you maximize limited square footage.
Situating your bed by a window can create a strong focal point that distinguishes the room.
Don’t: Overdress Windows
Richard Leo Johnson
Simple window treatments are often better in small rooms.
Credit:Kim Cornelison
Simple drapery panels can also soften the architecture of the room without crowding the space.
Do: Use Smart Arrangements
The right furniture arrangementcan make a small room feel so much larger.
Bedrooms often contain a lot of bulky furniture, so placing it all correctly is especially important.
Credit:Edmund Barr
Watch these smart strategies for a perfect furniture arrangement in a small bedroom.
To widen windows visually, extend the drapes beyond the window frames.
To avoid a cave-like effect,pair a dark wall colorwith crisp white trim.
Credit:John Bessler
you could easilyconvert existing cabinets to open shelvesby removing the doors.
If you’re still not sold on open shelving,cabinet doors with glass frontscreate a similar effect.
Mount one on either side of the vanity mirror for even, flattering lighting.
Credit:David Tsay
Do: Create an Entryway
Nathan Schroder
Does your front door open straight into the living room?
Add a console table or cabinet and layer in artwork and accessories.
For example, consider updating a bump-out or bay window area with a built-in window seat and comfy pillows.
Credit:Richard Leo Johnson
Do: Use Large-Scale Patterns
Robert Brinson
Large patterns can make a big statement in small spaces.
Just soften the impact by using them on or near the floor.
If you do opt for multiple wall colors, keep the moldings and trim the same color.
Credit:Laurey Glenn
They reflect light, which gives the illusion of more space, while adding a bit of sparkle.
Lean a mirror against a wall for an easy alternative to hanging that’sperfect for renters.
Choose solid-color fabrics for large pieces like sofas, and opt for painted walls over busy wallpaper.
Credit:Nick Johnson
Then bring in patterns more subtly through accent furniture, throw pillows, and other accessories.
The one in this tiny apartment is no exception.
Watch to learn small-space design tricks you’re free to use to recreate the look.
Credit:David A Land
Don’t: Ignore Vertical Bathroom Space
Jay Wilde
Use vertical space to your advantagein small bathrooms.
Tall freestanding units can add much-needed storage.
In small bedrooms, taller headboards introduce a vertical element that can help enlarge the sense of space.
Credit:David Tsay
Choose a design that complements your wall color, so the large scale doesn’t appear jarring.
Kick off your lighting with an overhead fixture (ideally, one with multiple bulbs).
Illuminate dark areas with additional wall-mount and tabletop fixtures.
Credit:David A Land
To maximize lighting, place fixtures diagonally to cancel shadows and add to the overall brightness.
Opt for more lightweight solutions that won’t block sight lines or light.
Leggy furniture pieces, glass tabletops, and see-through furnishings will make a room seem less full.
Credit:Nathan Schroder
This might also give you more arranging options to play with.
Think about your needs and design accordingly.
Here, shelves add storage, but also create space for a small settee.
Credit:Edmund Barr
For example, armless chairs that can slide under the dining room table will offer more floor space.
Backless stools at a kitchen island or countertop follow the same principle.
Measure your kitchen and choose a size that leaves plenty of room for flow.
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