9 Ways to Create an Illusion of a Bigger Home

Today, urban living is where we pay a premium for a 300 sqft studio apartment and call it "cozy." But let's face it, while our homes might be on the petite side, our dreams of space are anything but. We all yearn for that open, airy feel, where we can stretch out without knocking over a vase. But a spacious home isn't just about avoiding stubbed toes; it's about the psychological freedom it brings. Because, let's be honest, cluttered spaces often lead to cluttered minds.

Here's the silver lining: even if you can't magically add square footage to your home, you can certainly trick your eyes into thinking you did. With a dash of design magic and a sprinkle of decor wisdom, you can make any room feel like it just expanded. So, whether you're pinching pennies or ready to throw cash at the problem, this guide is here to help you fake it till you make it.

1. Choose the right color palette

Colors play a pivotal role in shaping our perception of space. Light and neutral colors, for instance, are known to reflect light, giving rooms an open and airy feel. On the other hand, darker hues tend to absorb light, making spaces feel confined.

There's a certain elegance in the simplicity of monochromatic schemes. Use varying shades of a single color to create a sense of unity and reduce visual clutter. But hey, a pop of color never hurt anyone. Just remember, it's an accent, not a main course. Add it in the form of throw pillows, artwork or décor items, not an entire wall.

And if you're feeling a bit rebellious, play with wall stripes. Vertical ones for an illusion of height and horizontal for stretching up your space. On the other hand, if you're in the mood for a subtle change, paint the ceiling a shade lighter than the walls to create a lovely illusion of space.

2. Use natural light to your advantage

Natural light is a game-changer when it comes to enhancing the feel of a space. It can transform a space from cramped to “can I stay here forever?” Rooms kissed with sunlight don’t just look bigger and more airy, they’re also more inviting and simply put, happier.

To get the most out of this free luxury, opt for sheer curtains or blinds. They offer privacy without compromising on brightness. And speaking of brightness, clean windows can make a world of difference. It's a small effort for a big payoff.

Now, about those dividers… While we all cherish our “me time” and the privacy that goes with it, traditional dividers can often feel a bit heavy, making a space feel smaller and more sequestered. That’s where our light room dividers come in handy. Consider this Abstract Modern Room Divider or this Polycarbonate 360 Folding Portable Partition – they do their job without blocking out the light so your room stays organized yet bright and airy. And the cherry on the top? Their adaptability. Need a moment of solitude? They're there. Want to feel like you're in an open-concept loft? Just dismantle or fold them up and let the space flow.

3. Opt for vertical storage solutions

When it comes to storage, why do we always think flat when the sky's the limit, or in this case, the ceiling! By utilizing vertical storage, you can free up floor space, making a room feel less cluttered and more expansive.

Vertical storage isn't just practical; it's an art form. Wall-mounted shelves can be both functional and a canvas for your favorite items, adding character to your space. From tall bookshelves in the living room to hanging pot racks in the kitchen or wall-mounted cabinets in bathrooms, vertical is the new way to go. And that little space above your doors? It's prime real estate waiting to be utilized.

4. Keep the decor cohesive

A room that sings in harmony is a sight to behold. But when decor elements start competing for the spotlight, it's less of a symphony and more of a cacophony. Patterns are great, but let's not turn our living room into a pattern battleground. Opt for designs that play well together – subtle patterns and complementary colors that work together, creating a cohesive look that's easy on the eyes.

Decor is the soul of a room, but it's essential to strike a balance. Too much, and it's overpowering. Too little, and it's bland. Find that Goldilocks zone where everything feels "just right."

5. Declutter regularly

Clutter has a way of creeping up on us, gathering slowly at first and then before you know it, your spacious room feels like a storage closet. Keeping spaces tidy and open is an ongoing dance. The KonMari Method offers a simple mantra: if it sparks joy – or in layman's terms, if it doesn’t make you question your life choices - it stays.

Remember, decluttering isn't a sprint; it's a marathon. Regular check-ins ensure your space stays as open as your schedule after a good decluttering session. And with the right storage sidekicks – boxes, baskets, and organizers – everything finds its happy place.

6. Use mirrors strategically

Mirrors aren't just for checking your hair or practicing your Oscar acceptance speech. They have this uncanny ability to create the illusion of depth. By reflecting light and other parts of a room, they can make spaces appear larger than they are.

Position mirrors opposite windows, and they'll catch and play with light in a way that's nothing short of enchanting. Those floor-to-ceiling mirrors can be particularly effective in amplifying this effect and giving your room a sense of grandeur. Beyond their space-enhancing prowess, mirrors can also double up as decorative centerpieces, reflecting both your room and your refined taste.

7. Incorporate open shelving

Open shelving is like that friend who's an open book – transparent, inviting, and always refreshing. Unlike closed cabinets that can sometimes feel heavy and bulky, open shelves create that sense of spaciousness by allowing the eye to travel further, revealing more of the wall behind.

Plus, they proudly display your curated items. Whether in the kitchen, displaying house dishes and spices, or in the living room displaying books, plants, or decorative items, these shelves add character without the bulk. But remember, with openness comes the responsibility to keep tidy and curate with care. After all, the goal is to put up a subtle show while reducing clutter.

8. Consider open floor plans

Open floor plans are the modern answer to spacious living. Tear down those interior partition walls, both literally and metaphorically. The result? Rooms that flow seamlessly into one another, creating an inviting ambiance.

But such openness can sometimes need a touch of definition as well as private spaces. Use rugs and furniture arrangement to delineate spaces, and for those occasional cravings for privacy, consider flexible room dividers that can be easily moved or retracted.

Ever thought of walls that don’t quite reach the ceiling? Check out this Pony Wall Room Divider or the Partition Room Divider – they can effectively divide your open plan without stealing its airy spaciousness. And the best part? They're 100% DIY. No need to call in the cavalry or break a sweat; with just a trusty screwdriver, you'll have them up (or down) in a jiffy! Whether your studio is playing the 'bed vs. couch?' game, or your WFH setup is screaming for rescue from the household commotion, these dividers are the walls you didn't know you needed.

9. Choose furniture with exposed legs

Ever noticed how furniture with exposed legs seems to have a spring in its step? Whether it's a sofa doing a little jig, a table on tiptoe, or a bed that's not afraid to show off its calves, these pieces bring a lightness to the room. By revealing more floor space, they make rooms feel less grounded and more airy, giving the illusion of more space.

Modern furniture designers seem to have caught onto this leggy trend, so finding a piece that's both chic and space-enhancing is a walk in the park. From mid-century modern elegance to Scandinavian simplicity, there's a leggy design for every taste.

There’s space beyond the square footage

In today's world, where urban living often feels like trying to fit a quart into a pint pot, creating the illusion of space becomes an art form. But, as we've seen, it's not just about the actual size—it's about clever design, perception, and a few tricks of the trade. By adopting the strategies in this guide, even the tiniest of spaces can feel like they've taken a big, refreshing breath.

Remember, the charm of a home isn't just in its dimensions but in its ability to mirror its inhabitants' essence. With a bit of planning, some decluttering magic, and a few design hacks, you can conjure a home that feels spacious, welcoming, and unmistakably yours.

Want to bring in some of our room separators to divide your space and make it bigger? We’re here to help! Reach out to us and our design experts will get back with swift suggestions on what’ll suit your space and needs best.