There’s no denying that small spaces can be a design challenge. However, a room’s appeal isn’t ultimately about its square footage, but rather about what you do with that square footage. Turn a common interior design challenge into an opportunity by following these five room design ideas that maximize space in your home.
1. Accept and embrace.
Embrace the positive aspects of small spaces. Smaller rooms have the potential to be charming, cozy, intimate and functional — all desirable aspects of living spaces. When creating your design, consider how highlight these qualities in your room. House Beautiful suggests, “‘Cozy’ is always the keyword for ‘cramped’ space, but in this case, leaning into what makes a room feel genuinely cozy…can be totally soothing. Keep seating close together and intimate, and choose a plush, soft rug.”
2. Plan, plan and plan.
Planning is always an integral part of the interior design process, but it’s especially vital when working with limited space. What factors should you to incorporate into your planning process? Consider your furniture requirements, determine what storage may be necessary, evaluate all potential uses of the room, and assess your own needs and how they fit into the plan. The best part is now an abundance of tools now exist which have been created to guide you through the process, including our ingenious (and free!) room planning software. (Learn more about the benefits of room planning here.)
3. Use your walls.
It’s possible to multiply your space and storage with one simple trick: “When you can’t build out, build up,” interior designer James Tabb told MyDomaine. “A clever trick that I love incorporating into small spaces is adding a floating shelf very close to the ceiling, which runs the perimeter of the room. By accessorizing with books, accessories, or other collectibles, it creates an effect similar to crown molding,” Tabb continued.
4. Don’t crowd.
Your impulse may be to squeeze as much as possible into your small space. Resist this temptation and avoid clutter. Sticking with one big focal point, such as a gorgeous sofa, bed, or rug can draw the eye in a clean and compelling way while giving the illusion of more space. Conversely, introducing many smaller elements can visually shrink a room.
5. Let there be light.
A room doesn’t have to be spacious to feel spacious if you have the right lighting. Interior designer Blanche Garcia says, “Lighting is extremely important, because in a small space shadows can make the room look even smaller. You want to use multiple sources of light. Things like sconces and floor lamps can illuminate a room from different angles to provide better lighting.” You can also maximize light in the room by choosing light curtains and shades. House Beautiful suggests, “If you’ve got a small space, opt for slim blinds that still let natural light in. Organic, woven fabrics keep a space feeling light and airy.”
One last thing to guide your small room design process? Just because you’re small on space doesn’t mean you have to be small on style. These five tips can provide the room inspiration you need to make the most of the space you’ve got.
Find Your Style at Stowers Furniture
We carry a diverse selection of high-quality furniture, home accents, lighting and rugs in our showroom. If you’re looking for customization, ask us about our Design Center. At Stowers, you have access to thousands of fabrics and catalogs, and you’ll have your personal designer to help you with any questions you might have. Visit us today and let’s see how we can turn your house into a home. Located on Rector Street behind North Star Mall.
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