Decorating Tips for Small Spaces

Decorating small spaces may feel like a struggle, and choosing the right furniture can seem daunting, but just because you’re short on square footage doesn’t mean you need to be short on style. When it comes to reimagining and rearranging a small bedroom, office or maybe even an entirely petite home, a few clever design tricks can help create an open, breezy feel. Take a cue or two from these small space decorating ideas, and you’ll be making the most of your small space in no time. 

Image of lift-top coffee table

Double down on function
 

When looking for furniture for small spaces, make sure every piece can pull double-duty with design and function. Choose a dresser that can also be used as a media console in your bedroom, or pick a lift-top coffee table that can also work as a desk in your living space. Add a stylish sleeper sofa to your living room that can be quickly turned into a bed for guests. Garden stools are petite, stylish and can serve as side tables or even seating in a pinch.

Image of hidden storage in a bed

Show no shortage of storage
 

In small spaces, hidden storage is your friend. Look for ottomans and benches that open to reveal compartments perfect for throw blankets, electronics and more. Consider incorporating decorative storage boxes into your décor to store small, more easily lost objects. Boost your bed a few inches higher for more underbed space or choose a piece with footboard storage to easily stow bulky sweaters and extra linens.

Image of two symmetrical leather chairs

Go big & Go bold
 

Dainty furniture isn’t necessarily the answer to freeing up space. In fact, tiny furniture runs the risk of making your small space look cluttered, jumbled and out of proportion. Instead, focus on scale and symmetry. Using a few large or oversized statement pieces can actually give a small area an elegant and spacious look. A luxe sofa or dramatic multi-purpose dresser will give you years of refreshing small space style. Utilize rugs, mirrors and décor from our other small space decorating tops to accent these larger pieces.  

Design Tip: Curate the Perfect Colors

Learn how color affects size and space. Dark hues absorb light and can create an enclosed effect. Stick with light colors and fabrics to bring an airy openness to your space. Use vivid colors to incorporate your personality and make your smaller accent pieces feel more significant. To create unexpected contrast, try one accent wall in a bold hue – since dark colors recede from the eye, it can actually make your space look larger.

Image of living room with rug, sofa, coffee table and chair

Pick the right rug
 

A small space calls for a large rug. Choose a floor covering that’s large enough to stage all of your furniture on or choose a design that stretches from wall to wall. From classic medallion motifs to colorful, abstract looks and everything in between, any large rug you pick will transform your small space by creating the optical illusion of a wider, more open floor plan.

Image of six lamps of various styles

Lighten up
 

Letting enough natural light into your small space is crucial. Create layers of lighting in your space with a sophisticated mixture of overhead, task and table lamps and luminous accent pieces. Make use of space-saving floor lamps and scones in your limited living area. By eliminating shadows and gloomy corners, your small space will appear illuminated and spacious.  

 

Image of a server/side table with lamps

Try smoke & mirrors
 

Reflective surfaces will make any room appear larger. Start by filling up an empty wall by hanging or leaning a large mirror against it. You can also opt for smaller, decorative mirrors as wall décor instead of framed art. The same design principle can apply to your accessories, so select metallic finishes for your lamps, trays and knick-knacks to bring extra light into your space.

Design Tip: Play with Pattern

Bold or overwhelming patterns can make a small space appear even smaller. As you select throw pillows, rugs and accent walls, keep in mind that moderation is key when it comes to expressing your style through patterns. A good place to start is with clean, understated looks like stripes, florals and light medallion motifs.

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