Imagine you’re getting dressed up for a special occasion. You put on your outfit, and then you slip on a shiny pair of shoes. Suddenly, you feel a little more dazzling, right? Now, think about your home.
Specifically, think about making a small room in your house feel just as fancy and spacious. How? It’s all about using the right kind of shine on your walls. When you pick out paint or tiles, consider ones that have a bit of a sparkle or gloss to them.
It’s a clever home decor idea for small homes because these shiny surfaces work like magic. They bounce light around the room, just like mirrors do, and create an illusion that the room is larger than it actually is. It’s a trick that designer Brian Patrick Flynn has used, and it works wonders.
Sliding Doors Save Space
Imagine a door that tucks away neatly into a wall instead of swinging out into your room. That’s the magic of pocket doors. These clever doors slide right into a compartment in the adjacent wall when you open them. They’re perfect for dividing spaces while keeping your home feeling open and airy.
Pocket doors are especially handy in places where there’s not a lot of room. For example, in a small apartment or a tiny bathroom, every inch of space matters. With a traditional door, you need to leave space for it to swing open and closed. But with a pocket door, you can use that extra space for furniture or just moving around more easily.
Another cool thing about pocket doors is that they can come with glass panels. This is great because it lets natural light flow from one room to another. It can make your home look brighter and feel bigger. Plus, if you pick frosted or textured glass, you can still enjoy privacy while letting light in.
Installing a pocket door can be a bit tricky, but it’s definitely worth it. You’ll need to have enough space inside your wall for the door to slide into. So, it’s a good idea to talk to a professional before you decide to put one in. They can help make sure everything fits just right and works smoothly.
So, if you’re looking for a space-saving solution that makes your home look modern and stylish, pocket doors are a great choice. They help you save space without sacrificing style or functionality. Plus, they add a touch of cool, secret-passage mystery to your home!
Art Can Trick Your Eyes
Have you ever walked into a room and felt like it was just so spacious, only to find out it’s actually pretty small? That’s the power of art and how it can play with our perceptions. When you hang a bunch of pictures or artwork on your walls, it creates an optical illusion. This illusion can make cramped spaces seem like they have more room. It’s a clever visual trick that draws your eyes upward and around, giving the impression of a larger area.
For example, let’s talk about Rudy Saunders. He’s a guy who tried this neat trick in his own apartment with amazing results. By covering his walls with various pieces of art, he made his living space feel much more open. Each piece of art acts like a window to another world, which can distract from the actual size of the room. Plus, the art gives visitors lots of interesting things to look at, which can make the space seem more inviting and lively.
But how exactly does this work? It’s all about how our brains process what we see. When your eyes have more to look at, they move around more. This movement makes your brain think there’s more space than there really is. It’s like when you’re watching a movie with lots of fast scenes—it feels like a lot is happening in a short amount of time. The same goes for a room filled with art; your eyes dart from picture to picture, making the room seem bigger and full of possibilities.
So, if you’re feeling like your room is a bit on the small side, try hanging some art! It doesn’t have to be anything fancy; even posters or your own drawings can do the trick. Get creative and have fun with it. Before you know it, you’ll have a room that feels more open and maybe even a little magical. Just remember, it’s all about making your eyes believe there’s more space than there is. And who knows, you might just feel like you’ve moved into a bigger place without even packing a box!
Be Clever with Furniture
Living in a snug space often means getting creative with what you have. Think dual-purpose when it comes to furniture. A sturdy chair, for example, isn’t just for sitting. It can double as a convenient side table for your books or a cup of tea. This clever swap can save you loads of space and reduce clutter.
Another smart tip is to utilize your walls. Instead of floor lamps that take up precious square footage, why not install some stylish wall lights? They can brighten up your room without crowding the floor. Plus, they draw the eye upward, making the ceiling seem higher and the room feel larger.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of color. A splash of light turquoise or other fun shades can instantly lift the mood of any small space. Use these hues in your fabrics, wall art, or even on the furniture itself. Colors play a huge role in creating an atmosphere, so pick ones that make you feel cheerful and relaxed.
Remember, when space is limited, every piece of furniture should be both functional and stylish. With these tips, you can maximize your living area and enjoy a lovely, vibrant home.
Look Up for More Room
Ever noticed how your eyes naturally travel upwards when you enter a room? You can use this little trick to make any space feel bigger! Vertical lines draw the eye upward, creating the illusion of height. One neat way to achieve this is by installing things like ceramic tiles vertically on your walls.
Take inspiration from interior designer Eneia White, who applied this technique in a bathroom makeover. By arranging the tiles from floor to ceiling, the room instantly seemed taller and more spacious. It’s like magic, but it’s really just smart design!
Color choice is also key in keeping a room feeling open and airy. White opted for a timeless palette of black and white, with just a hint of pink for some warmth. This simple color scheme helps avoid visual clutter, making the space feel serene and uncluttered. So, if you’re looking to give a room a lift, remember: it’s not just what you add, but how you add it.
Hide Stuff with Curtains
Have you ever noticed how some things in your house, like exposed pipes or big air vents, can stick out like a sore thumb? They’re necessary, but let’s be honest, they’re not the prettiest things to look at. The good news is, you can easily hide these eyesores with a simple solution—curtains!
Think of curtains as a magician’s cape for your home. Just like a magician uses their cape to hide things, you can use curtains to make those unattractive parts of your room disappear. And it’s not just about hiding things; curtains can also add a touch of style to your space. For example, at The Cornell Inn’s restaurant, they’ve used this trick to transform their space, proving that functionality and beauty can go hand in hand.
So, how do you get started? First, choose curtains that match the rest of your room’s look. You want them to blend in and feel like they’re part of the design, not just an afterthought. Then, install a curtain rod above the area you want to cover. Make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold your curtains without falling down. Finally, hang your curtains and adjust them so they cover up the unsightly bits perfectly.
But remember, while curtains are great for concealing things, they should also be easy to move. After all, you might need to access those pipes or vents for maintenance. Choose curtains that glide smoothly or can be tied back when necessary. This way, you get the best of both worlds—a beautiful room and practical access to important home fixtures.
By using curtains creatively, you can turn a potential eyesore into a charming feature of your room. It’s a simple, cost-effective solution that works wonders. So go ahead, give those not-so-cute spots in your home a ‘pretty dress’ and watch how it transforms your space!
Swinging Seats are Fun
Imagine a chair that doesn’t touch the ground but floats in the air! That’s exactly what a swinging seat does. It hangs from the ceiling, which is pretty cool because it frees up space on the floor. This makes any room it’s in feel larger and more open. Plus, there’s something really fun about sitting in a chair that can swing and sway.
Interior designer Tiffany Brooks once used a daybed, which is a couch that can be used as a bed, in a showhouse, and she hung it from the ceiling. It wasn’t just for looks; it was also practical. Because the daybed was off the ground, the space looked super cool and airy. It’s like having a mini indoor swing set that’s also perfect for naps!
When you don’t have a lot of room, it’s important to get creative with furniture. A hanging seat can be a smart choice because it doesn’t clutter the floor. You can still have all your essentials, like a coffee table or a rug, without the space feeling cramped. It’s a unique way to add seating without sacrificing style or comfort.
Before you install one, make sure you check that your ceiling can support the weight. You’ll need a strong ceiling joist or beam to hang the seat from. Once it’s up, you can enjoy a new favorite spot in your home to relax, read, or just daydream.
Not sure where to find one of these cool seats? Look for them in furniture stores or online. They come in all sorts of styles, from sleek and modern to cozy and bohemian. Pick one that matches your taste, and get ready to enjoy the perfect blend of fun and functionality in your living space.
Small Tables are Big Helpers
When you’re picking out furniture, a small, round table can be a clever choice. It’s like having a little helper in your living space. Why? Well, it’s all about saving space and still being stylish. A big table might take over the room, but a small one lets you breathe and move freely. Plus, it’s just enough to hold your coffee cup and favorite book.
Take a tip from Emily Henderson, a pro at interior design. She knows how to make a room look good without stuffing it with too much stuff. By choosing a small table, Emily made sure there’s plenty of room for people to walk around. It’s a smart move that keeps her designs feeling open and welcoming.
Here’s the thing – a small table isn’t just about saving space. It’s also about flexibility. You can move it around easily, use it in different ways, and it can fit into tight spots. Whether you need a place for your keys, a lamp, or a spot for a friendly plant, these tables are up for the task. And if you ever need more floor space, you can simply tuck the table aside.
Designing with a small table doesn’t mean you sacrifice function for form. It’s quite the opposite. You get a stylish piece that works hard to make your life simpler and your home more enjoyable. So, next time you’re looking at furniture, remember that sometimes the smaller option can be the biggest helper in your room.
Day Beds Double Your Space
Imagine a magic trick where one piece of furniture flips roles to save you space. That’s what a day bed does. During sunlight hours, it’s a cozy sofa where you can read or watch TV. But when the stars come out, it transforms into a comfy bed. This is especially handy if you’re short on space and can’t fit a separate guest room.
Day beds are not just clever space-savers; they’re also stylish. They come in lots of designs to match your room’s vibe. Whether you like modern metal frames or classy wooden ones, there’s a day bed that’ll look just right. Plus, many have storage built in underneath, perfect for tucking away blankets or games.
If you often have friends or family stay over, a day bed in your living room is a smart move. It lets your guests have a spot to sleep without you needing an extra bedroom. In the morning, just tuck the bedding away, and it’s back to being your chic couch. It’s a win-win for everyone!
Choosing a day bed also means you can decorate your space in a flexible way. You can dress it up with cushions and throws to make it look inviting, no matter what time of day. And if you’re someone who likes to change things up, you can easily switch out the accessories for a fresh look anytime.
So, if you’re looking to make the most of your living area, consider a day bed. It’s a smart solution that gives you two pieces of furniture in one, saving you both space and money. Your room will be ready for daytime lounging or nighttime snoozing in no time!
Decorate Everything
Living in a snug space doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. In fact, you can transform everyday items into pieces of art. Take your refrigerator, for example. It’s big, it’s there, and with a little creativity, it can be a statement piece.
Here’s a cool trick: removable wallpaper. It’s like a giant sticker for your fridge that you can change anytime you want. Anthony Dunning, a savvy decorator, turned his plain fridge into a centerpiece of his kitchen. He picked out some funky wallpaper that really made the space pop.
What’s great about removable wallpaper is that it’s easy to apply and just as easy to remove. So, if you decide you want a new look, or you’re moving out, you can simply peel it off. No mess, no fuss, and no damage to the appliance.
To get started, measure your fridge and cut the wallpaper to size. Then, carefully stick it on, smoothing out any bubbles as you go. It’s a fun project that you can do in an afternoon and the result is instantly gratifying. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly way to add some personality to your space.
Remember, just because you’re tight on space, doesn’t mean you can’t be big on style. With a bit of imagination, you can make even the most mundane items shine. So, why not take inspiration from Anthony and give your fridge a mini-makeover?
Put Your TV on the Wall
TV stands are big and bulky, and they can hog up precious space in your room. But what if you could just hang your TV on the wall? Imagine all the extra space you’d have! It’s like taking your TV and turning it into a cool piece of art on the wall. This way, your floor is free for you to walk around, play games, or even add more furniture.
First things first, you’ll want to pick the perfect spot for your TV. Look for a space that’s easy to see from all over the room, not too high or too low. You’ll also want to make sure it’s near an outlet so you can plug in your TV without any long, dangling cords.
Next, you’ll need the right tools and a wall mount. Wall mounts come in different shapes and sizes, so choose one that fits your TV just right. You can find these at most stores that sell TVs or online. Make sure the mount you pick can hold the weight of your TV, so it stays safely on the wall.
Now, it’s time to get that TV up there. You might need an adult to help with this part. Follow the instructions that come with your wall mount. Usually, you’ll screw the mount into the wall, making sure it’s attached to the wood studs for a strong hold. Then, carefully hook your TV onto the mount.
Once your TV is up, take a step back and check that it’s straight. You can use a level to make sure it’s not tilting to one side. Then, connect all the cords you need and tidy them up so they’re not hanging down. Some mounts even have special clips to help keep your cords neat and out of sight.
And there you have it! Your TV is now like a fancy picture on your wall, and you’ve got all this open space on your floor. You can move around more, bring in a new desk or shelf, or just enjoy the extra room to stretch out. Plus, it looks really modern and cool. Enjoy your new setup!
Hide Your TV for More Space
Living spaces often have a lot of roles—they’re places to relax, entertain, and sometimes even work. A big television can take up valuable space and dominate the room’s look. But what if it could almost disappear when you’re not using it? Consider tucking your TV away in a cabinet or a specialized piece of furniture designed for that purpose. This is a clever trick, especially in cozy living areas, to keep the focus on the room’s multiple uses, not just the screen.
Another creative solution is to make your TV blend in with your decor. Some TVs can display art or photos when they’re not in use, turning your screen into a piece of artwork. You can also frame your TV with a custom frame that matches your room’s style, making it look like a painting hanging on the wall. This way, your TV is not the center of attention unless you’re watching your favorite show or movie.
Remember, the goal is to maximize your space and make sure the TV doesn’t take over the room. By hiding your TV or integrating it into your room’s design, you create a more versatile and inviting space. It’s all about making sure that when screen time is over, your room is still a place for conversation, play, or relaxation without the TV being the focal point.
Finally, think about the way you arrange your furniture. Make sure you can easily see the TV when you want to, but that it doesn’t block the flow of the room or get in the way. With a bit of creativity, you can keep your living space open, welcoming, and ready for anything—even when the TV is off.
Mirrors Make Magic
Have you ever walked into a room and felt like it was just huge, only to realize it’s the clever placement of mirrors that’s tricking your eye? That’s because mirrors can make a room feel bigger and brighter. When light bounces off a mirror, it reflects around the room, making dim spaces come alive with brightness. It’s like turning on a light without using any electricity!
But mirrors aren’t just for making a room look larger. They can also be a source of fun and flair. A fun mirror that’s not flat, like one with a wavy or bubbly surface, can add lots of personality without needing a lot of space. This type of mirror isn’t just for seeing your reflection; it’s a piece of art that can make you smile every time you look at it.
When you’re picking out a mirror, think about what shape would look best in your room. Maybe a long, tall mirror would make your ceiling seem higher, or a round mirror could soften the sharp lines of your furniture. And don’t be afraid to play with color! Mirrors with colorful frames can add a pop of joy to any wall.
Remember, the placement of your mirror is key. Putting it across from a window can pull more natural light into the room. Or, if you put it near a lamp, it can spread the warm glow of the light all through the space, making it cozy and inviting. Just make sure that it reflects something nice, because you’ll be seeing double of it!
So go ahead and experiment with mirrors. Whether you choose one that’s large or small, flat or funky, it can change the whole feel of your room without much effort. And that’s a kind of magic anyone can create!
Turn a Closet into Something Cool
Designer David Kaihoi made a tiny laundry room in his closet. This way, when he’s not washing clothes, he can just close the door and not have to look at the washer and dryer.