Whether you’re living in a studio apartment in the city or a cosy cottage in the countryside, we could all do with a bit more space. Unfortunately, without pulling down walls and building extensions, there’s not much we can do to make our homes bigger. However, there are plenty of things we can do to make our homes feel bigger.
Use as much light as possible
One of the most effective ways of making your home feel bigger is by using light. By illuminating the room with multiple light sources, the area will feel much bigger and welcoming. Whilst natural light works best, artificial light can be used as well. Having multiple sources of light at different heights and intensities can add depth to a room. If you’re limited for multiple light sources then try using reflective surfaces to bounce light around the room. Mirrors are great for this as they not only reflect light but they also create the illusion that the room is larger than it is. Using stainless steel in the kitchen or glossy surfaces in the bathroom also help to reflect light.
Use light colours
It’s well known that light colours in a room can make the room feel bigger and more open as they reflect light through the room, whilst dark colours tend to absorb light. Soft tones of off-white, blue and green are great for achieving a larger looking room without making the room appear bland. Painting wall trim, moulding, and skirting a lighter shade or colour than your walls will create the illusions that the walls are further back. It’s also important to think about the colour of the ceiling, as dark ceilings will absorb light and make the room feel small and gloomy.
Furniture
Believe it or not, having large furniture in a small room, instead of multiple pieces of smaller furniture will make the room feel much bigger. However, this doesn’t mean you should be cramming your living room with a giant 6-seater sofa when you live alone and rarely have multiple visitors. Also, using raised furniture will help spread light around the room, and will make the floor space appear bigger.
Room arrangement
The way you position the furniture and light around the room can make a big difference to the appearance and size of the room. Try to keep furniture away from the wall (even if it’s just a few inches), as having small spaces between the two can make a big difference. It’s also important to keep pathways and natural light sources clear from furniture so the room feels more open and easily accessible.
Clear the Clutter
The final point on our list is the dreaded declutter. This one may seem obvious but it can often be overlooked. Whilst having a weekly clean will keep your house looking tidy, this is just a short term solution for a long term problem. Instead, spend some time getting rid of unwanted and unused clutter, as an emptier room will naturally look bigger. If you’re more of a hoarder, then there are plenty of creative ways to store your belongings, without them making the room look messy. Using long and tall shelving is another great way to make a room seem larger.
If you’re thinking of buying or selling a property, or would like your property valued, get in touch! We’re a friendly bunch, passionate about our county and our counties beautiful properties. We can be reached on 01603 300900, by email at [email protected], or pop in and see us at De Vere House, St Faiths Lane, Norwich, NR1 1NE.
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