Spatial Illusions: Tricks to Make a Small Room Appear Larger

Collaborative post by another author. Many of us live in homes with small or awkwardly shaped rooms, which are particularly common in older Victorian and Edwardian homes. Trying to make the most of a limited space can be a decorating challenge. However with some clever styling tricks and spatial illusions, you can fool the eye into thinking a poky room is more spacious than it really is. Here are some ideas to try.

A small room home decor stock image from Canva Pro

Simple tricks can make a room seem larger

Use Light Colours

Painting walls, ceilings and trims in pale, neutral shades is one of the oldest tricks for opening up a space visually, which is something you’ll often read in an interior design magazine UK. Light colours reflect more light around the room, making it seem brighter and airier. Opt for soft whites, greys or beiges rather than stark bright white, which can look clinical. Also, consider lighter flooring; pale wood or tiles have a similar enlarging effect to pale walls.

Direct the Eye Upwards

Drawing attention upwards gives the impression of a higher ceiling, making the room feel more open and expansive. Use vertical stripes or tall furniture like floor-to-ceiling bookcases. Hang long curtains that extend from ceiling to floor, drawing the eyes up. Place mirrors above eye-level to reflect the ceiling. Decorate the ceiling itself with colour or pattern to attract the gaze.

Keep Flooring Consistent

Visually seamless flooring makes a space appear larger by avoiding a ‘broken’ look. Hardwood or tiles are popular in British house interiors and provide a uniform surface. Use large rugs that extend under furniture rather than small scattered rugs. If you choose to carpet the rooms, choose one consistent colour and pile height. Minimal transitions from room to room keep spaces feeling open and connected.

Maximise Natural Light

More light equals a brighter, more expansive look. Take down heavy drapes and blinds and replace with sheer curtains. Position furniture to allow light from windows to penetrate into corners and reflect off pale surfaces. Consider enlarging existing windows or installing skylights if feasible. The right lighting can make a room feel twice as big.

Add Mirrors

Mirrors effectively double visual space by reflecting and expanding the room. Hang a large mirror opposite a window to reflect outside light and views. Position mirrors across from each other to create an endless reflection effect. Place mirrors near doors or endings to make hallways and passages seem longer. Angle mirrors to optimally reflect light and views.

Keep Furniture Minimal

Cluttered rooms feel smaller, while airy, open rooms feel more spacious. Stick to essential, multifunctional furniture in compact or transparent designs. Float furniture away from walls rather than pushing it flush. Raise pieces up on legs rather than placing directly on the floor. If needed, use folding or nesting furniture that can be stowed away.

With a few of these spatial illusion tips, you can trick the eye into perceiving a poky UK room as a palace. A sense of openness and light combined with minimal, streamlined furnishings will make the most of your square footage. It just takes some clever styling to turn a small space into a big asset.