So, you have a room in your home that feels more like a cupboard than a place you can actually hang out and spend time? Whether it’s a spare bedroom or a second reception room, there are tons of tricks you can employ to give the illusion of space in your place…
1. Go Big (and Reflective) or Go Home
First things first, if there’s one item that’s a must for a small bedroom, it’s mirrored dressing tables. Yes, these glamorous beauties don’t just sit there looking pretty; they’re actual magicians when it comes to fooling the eye. A mirrored dressing table doesn’t just reflect the stuff in your room, it makes it feel like there’s double the space! Pop one in a corner, and you’ll be amazed at how it catches the light and bounces it around, making the room feel like it’s stretching in every direction. It’s like having a disco ball but much classier – and you can still check your makeup.
2. The ‘Floating Furniture’ Trick
Got stuff cluttering up your home’s floor? Lift it off! Floating shelves, wall-mounted desks, and even floating bedside tables (yes, they exist!) are all perfect for tiny spaces where you want to be able to move around, and you don’t want to feel cramped in. When furniture appears to hover, it tricks the eye into thinking there’s more room to breathe. Plus, floating furniture leaves more room for your slippers and magazines on the floor, creating that barely there look that screams “I’m chic and minimal” – even if you know there’s a mountain of junk just out of sight.
3. Tall and Slender: The Giraffe Method
Ever heard of “think vertical”? Well, it’s time to give it a go. High shelves, tall lamps, and elongated art pieces draw the eye upwards, making your room feel like it’s got some altitude. Stack your shelves way up high, toss a tall plant in the corner, and see your room grow up rather than out. You’ll be giving the illusion of height without needing a builder – or planning permission!
4. Choose Colours That Don’t Clash – They Cuddle
Colours matter. But let’s be real, we’re not suggesting you go all-white (though it helps) because who wants a room that feels like a hospital ward? The trick is to go for colours that flow, cuddle, and blend. Think soft greys, pastel blues, or shades of cream – these colours don’t fight for attention and help keep things calm and spacious. Leave the bold colours for accent items – or your wardrobe choices.
5. Mirrors Everywhere! And We Mean Everywhere
Not to be dramatic, but mirrors are to small spaces what coffee is to Mondays: essential. The bigger the mirror, the bigger the illusion. Lean one against a wall, hang one behind a plant, or pop one opposite your window to double the light coming in. Mirrors are your ticket to giving your room that “is this a palace?” effect – even if it’s more “cosy studio” in reality.
Small spaces can feel spacious!
