Ten Ways to Make a Small Room Look Larger

**SewCrafty** · 08-17-2003, 06:14 PM

Ten Ways to Make a Small Room Look Larger

Everyone has at least one room in their home that is too small and possibly problematic to decorate. Lowe's is happy to provide this information as a service to you.

Most of the following designer tricks can be applied to any room:

1) For the illusion of a larger room, use a color scheme that is light rather than bright or dark. Pastels, neutrals and white are all color possibilities.

2) Use a monochromatic color scheme on the furniture, rugs and walls. Select different shades and textures of your single color.

3) A torchiere bounces light off the ceiling to increase the look of space.
Lighting is a key element in opening up a space. Recessed spot lighting is visually appealing and is perfect for a small space. A torchiere light is great for bouncing light off of the ceiling and back down on the room. Skylights and solar tubes are natural alternatives for adding light to a room.

4) Limit the number of accessories to avoid the cluttered feeling.

5) The floor and the ceiling are the fifth and sixth walls of every room. A light-colored flooring such as light oak or a light-colored carpet will make the room appear brighter and more open. The same applies to the ceiling—use a light color or white to "open up" the space above.

6) A large mirror can double the appearance of the room.
Increase the appearance of the size of the room by adding wall mirrors. They not only reflect images, they reflect light and color. Be a little daring! Use mirror tiles to mirror an entire wall. Your room will appear to double in size.

7) Don't place too many pieces of furniture in a small space. A love seat may work better than a full-size sofa depending on the size and shape of the room. Add two medium-sized chairs or two small wood chairs. Place the chairs closer to the wall and then pull them into the area when additional seating is needed.

8) Add paintings or prints to the walls. One large painting works better than a group of small paintings.

9) A glass table a feeling of open space.
The visual balance of a room is also important. A large, brightly colored element can overwhelm a room and decrease the appearance of space.

10) A glass table, whether it is a dining, coffee or end table, will keep keep the appearance of a open and free space.

Was this information helpful? Please let us know your do-it-yourself experiences. We'd love to hear from you!

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Article by http://www.lowes.com

With features like recessed lighting, a glass table and light colors, your room will look larger.