Many of us live in homes that are smaller than we’d like, so it’s important to know the tricks to make any room look bigger.
From well-placed mirrors to dark floors, there are small updates that can instantly make any room look more spacious.
London-based model and businesswoman Caprice Bourret, founder of interior brand By Caprice Home, shared her eight top tips exclusively with FEMAIL.
“Anyone looking to redecorate should follow these simple tricks and think smart about your space to achieve a finished result that you can use and actually live in,” Caprice said.
‘Getting your pleasure out of a space is important, otherwise it makes no sense at all!’
Caprice suggested replacing heavy curtains with light and airy fabric and paying close attention to how the floor is laid to create the illusion of space…
1. Hang mirrors near natural light
Catch the light: Placing one large mirror – or several small ones – near a natural light source will bounce light into the room, making it appear larger and less cramped
Do not underestimate the power of lighting and mirrors. They can transform any room and make the biggest difference to the overall feel.
If your room can’t handle it, replace a large piece of art with several small mirrors or a larger mirror.
Add effect by then placing artificial lighting that reflects off the mirror to give the illusion of more space.
Mirrors are also extremely effective near natural light, as the reflection can instantly extend the scope of a room. Mirrors at windows and doors are therefore a must and avoid dark places.
2. Save floor space with floating shelves
Clear the floors: When it comes to storage, make the most of space by considering floating shelves like the one above (pictured) or built-in storage that can be tucked away neatly
Start by tidying up and then spend time planning your space. Any small room should not have clutter or many ornaments and your room should feel open, sleek, tidy and organized.
Create an integrated storage or hidden solution behind furniture or a floating shelf to place everything you want to keep or display.
As a rule, you should avoid any storage space that takes up floor space, otherwise your room will only feel even smaller, like an ottoman.
4. Throw out the heavy curtains
Thick, heavy curtains will just make your room feel closed and dark, as they weigh down the room and absorb the natural light.
Opt for lightweight or transparent materials to lift the room.
This will also help frame window(s) and attract more natural light to shine through.
Softer and lighter materials also fit better behind other furniture and are much more versatile.
A soft vertical pattern can also help add height to a room. Heavier curtains are more suitable for larger rooms because the space can handle them’.
Bright and Airy: Replace your heavy curtains with light, airy curtains (as seen above) to create a lightness that opens up the space. It also returns the physical space occupied at the base
5. Choose furniture with exposed legs
Avoid unnecessary bulky furniture by opting for pieces with exposed legs as they are more streamlined, which can make all the difference.
Limiting bulky furniture will unconsciously make the space feel more spacious and less cramped. Sofa and chair legs are particularly bulky and can overwhelm the room.
You will be surprised at what furniture you can fit into the room if you follow this simple design rule.
Multifunctional furniture that doubles as storage can also be great for smaller spaces.”
5. Select a small wall and be creative with pattern
Go big! Add color to even the smallest room by choosing a wall to cover in pattern, as seen above. This gives your room a focal point and makes the eye look bigger than it is
If minimal is your thing, that’s great, but just because you’re dressing in a limited space doesn’t mean you should avoid all patterns.
If you’re feeling creative, you don’t have to play it safe and think that everything should be clear. You just have to find the right balance.
It’s a good idea to choose the smallest wall for the pattern and make sure the pattern is centered and not trimmed on either side. This gives your room a focal point and makes the eye look bigger than it is.
7. Floors to Deceive the Eye
Draw the eye up: Contrary to what you might think, adding a dark floor to a small room (as seen above) will help draw the eye to the lighter walls, creating a more open feel
Small rooms that don’t get much light seem bigger with a dark floor. It is best to avoid light floors as it actually does the opposite.
You may be afraid to use a dark floor in a small space and think that a light floor would be better, but that is not true.
Interior expert: Caprice shared her top tips
Dark floor should be embraced in small rooms with light and airy colors and fabrics on the walls and textiles. There’s more room on the wall than on the floor, so this should be your focus for lighter shades.
The eye is then drawn in because of the contract and combination in play, giving the impression of a larger room.
If you are going for a wooden or laminate floor, lay the planks towards the main light source. Use beveled edge planks for definition.
8. Draw the eye with pillows
Choose pillows to stand out. The clever use of pillows can give the illusion of extra space. Layering can add depth and intrigue, which is exactly what you need in a small space to deduce the size of the room.
Pillows should feature one of your “smart design choices.” And mix and match with a rug or other accessories in key areas to balance the space. These well-placed items can draw attention to that area.
Plus, this is a great way to incorporate textures and patterns to give your room an identity.
Caprice Bourret is founder and CEO of By Caprice Home with major dealers including www.jdwilliams.co.uk, www.very.co.uk and www.next.co.uk.