Interior Design Tips For Small Living Spaces

Do you live in a small and crowded space? Here are some interior design tips for making the most out of living in tight quarters.

If you live in a small home or apartment, there are numerous interior design secrets that you can incorporate to help your dwelling appear larger while still making use of every inch of space possible. Use the following steps to get your creativity flowing in your home.

Clear the Clutter

Anytime you are in a small space, it is hard to not have clutter because it is easy to run out of space for certain items. However, what you may not realize at first is that the clutter can sometimes become a part of your overall design, thus making the room appear smaller. For example, if you have a stack of library books on a table near the door, they will eventually become a permanent part of the overall design of the room until they are moved. They are taking up space and they become something that the eye is drawn to.

Using an empty box, go through your home and place items in the box that you do not use and that are not a part of your overall interior design. Afterward, you will have a blank canvas and you will instantly see the amount of free space that you have. For items that you need left out on a daily basis, but still have a clutter appearance, you can mask them using creative storage options. Place a decorative basket by the door for your library books, designate an area for keys, and place random scattered items in a pretty box that matches your decor.

Colors, Fabrics, and Art

While many people prefer dark colors on their walls to help create a certain cozy ambiance, it is not the best option if you want the room to appear larger. If you paint a room a dark color, it will instantly appear smaller. Soft and light colors, such as light blue, yellow, and other pastels are great for a small interior design.

Fabrics can also make a room appear smaller. Bulky curtains that block light will instantly take up extra space. Instead, opt for decorative shades or blinds. If you are stuck on the idea of fabric window treatments, then consider sheer panels or lightweight drapes. If you hang them several inches above the actual window, and choose panels that are longer in length, then it will also make your room appear taller and add visual space.

The right art piece can be critical to your interior design. It draws the eye to something interesting, and away from other areas of the room you may not want to focus on. Have fun with this one. Branch out. Maybe try an abstract art piece or a unique sculpture.

Flooring and Furniture

As with dark colored paint, carpet can also make a room appear smaller. Light hardwood floors look great in a small space and will incorporate beautifully with your light-colored walls. If you live in rental housing or in an apartment where you are unable to change your flooring, then carpet can be an exception in small spaces. For example, place an area rug that is a lighter shade than the existing carpet. The same also applies on dark linoleum or laminate that you want to conceal.

Furniture is another large topic that can either help create space or enclose a space. Keeping storage space in mind, replace a coffee table with an ottoman that opens up with storage space inside or use a coffee table that has multiple drawers underneath. This will allow you to keep clutter at bay and add extra storage options without adding more furniture.

Living in a small space does not mean that you are limited when it comes to a stylish and comfortable arrangement. As long as you keep the above interior design tips in mind, you can incorporate them into any size room to add space and extra light.

Article Tags: Interior Design Tips, Room Appear Smaller, Interior Design, Design Tips, Small Space, Room Appear, Appear Smaller