Living in an apartment often means living with limited space, especially in busy metropolitan cities where every square foot counts. And when your home starts feeling cramped, knocking down a wall or renovating the layout may seem like the obvious solution, but what if your landlord doesn't allow it? Or what if a major renovation simply doesn't fit your budget?
If you've been dreaming of a home that feels more open, airy and spacious without spending a lot, you're in the right place. With a few smart decor tweaks and thoughtful changes, you can create the illusion of a larger space without touching a single wall.
Let natural lighting be the main character
This is one of the easiest ways to make the room look larger. This is by maximising the light that comes in the room, as bright spaces tend to feel more open, while dark may make a room feel enclosed.
For this, choose the lightweight curtains in a sorter or the neutral shades.
Note: Using floor-length curtains may give the illusion of taller ceilings.
Use a mirror to create the illusion of space
Except for doing the fit check, the mirror can do a lot more than this. It can make a compact room appear brighter and more spacious. Place a large mirror opposite or near a window so that it reflects the light around the room.
Note: If you do not want to drill on the wall, then you may also use the large floor mirror to add an extra depth.
Choose the lighter colours
There is the reason why neutral colours are in a trend nowadays. Lighter colours reflect light that can make the wall appear less imposing. Try a palette of warm white, beige, cream, soft grey or muted pastels for the larger surfaces, then add personalisation through cushions, artwork, rugs and smaller decorative pieces.
Pick the furniture that does not overpower the room
One of the mistakes people make in small homes is choosing furniture based only on whether it fits the space or not.
{{/usCountry}}One of the mistakes people make in small homes is choosing furniture based only on whether it fits the space or not.
{{/usCountry}}A bed may technically fit against a wall, but if it is oversized and bulky, it can make the room feel congested. Look for the furniture with alim profiles and lighter proportions. This makes the room feel more spacious.
Use vertical space
Walls may be used in the place of floors if the flooring isn't enough. You may consider that place to have bookshelves, artwork, a storage unit, and cabinets.
Note: Just avoid using every wall space, as it can still make your room feel cramped.
Do not push everything against the wall
It might seem sensible to push every piece of furniture against the wall to create more floor space, but that isn't always the best solution. Sometimes, leaving a little space between furniture and walls can make a room feel more spacious.
Don't forget about lighting
Even the well-designed small room can feel congested if it is poorly lit.
Instead of relying on a single overhead light, create layers of lighting. Combine ceiling lights with floor lamps, table lamps or wall lights to illuminate different areas of the room.
Warm lighting can also make a space feel more inviting, particularly in bedrooms and living rooms.