Styling small spaces

It’s really not the size of the house that matters, but how it’s decorated.

There’s no doubt smaller homes present their own challenges, from storage issues to avoiding clutter.

Regardless of floorplan, small homes can feel roomy and be every bit as stylish as a more expansive abode.

Consider every item

It’s an age-old rule but one that stands true when it comes to decorating a smaller space – only keep what’s needed. If you use it, keep it. Ditch it if you don’t. Less is definitely more in smaller spaces and this is especially true when working with colour – too much can overpower and enclose a space, but just a handful of carefully chosen pieces can instead make a powerful impact.

Use paint to advantage

One of the easiest ways to open up any space is with paint – your colour choice can have a major impact on making a space feel more open than it is. Light coloured paint on the walls is an understandable choice as it will make any space feel bright and spacious. But if you are feeling a tad more daring, there are other palettes which can also give a small room a big boost.

Blush tones, for example, have a warm glow and light reflects beautifully off them, adding to the feeling of spaciousness. Moody tones, too, can somewhat surprisingly make a room feel more expansive than it actually is. A darker room paired with light furniture can create an optical illusion of making a room feel larger.

Play with scale

A smaller space needs smaller decor, right? Not necessarily – bigger is actually better with some items. A larger rug, for example, has the effect of drawing the eye out, creating the impression of a larger space. So that fabulously hued Moroccan rug you’ve had your eye on, might just be your new best friend.

Tiles work in the same way and can also introduce a pop of colour into a smaller room. This strategic use of scale is an optical illusion that can be used to advantage, and works just as well with bold tones as it does neutrals.

Look for creative storage solutions

Storage is always at a premium, but never more-so than in a small house. Look for ways to create more storage by making use of otherwise empty spaces. Trundles or cartons on wheels are ideal for under a bed or look to add extra shelves in existing cupboards to increase your usable space.

Create airflow

The largest pieces in the house – key furniture items – need not feel big and bulky. Again, it’s all smoke and mirrors to create that optical illusion. The secret here is to go for pieces that allow for airflow; a sofa on legs will feel more spacious than one that that goes right to the ground.

The home should be the most functional and appealing as it can possibly be, regardless of its size. It’s time to embrace your smaller space!

For more, head to greenhouseinteriors.com.au