Tips for Transforming Small Interior Spaces

Small rooms can be cute and cozy, but they can also feel cramped and restricted. Doreen Schofield, a Sales Design Consultant with Callen, offers tips on how to transform your tiny space into an airy abode.

“With the right colors and proper layout, any confined room can become a spacious sanctuary,” said Doreen.

Colors: Certain color combinations can positively change the feeling of a room. “You can make the space feel open by using different shades of the same color,” Doreen said. “Create this visual coherence by color coordinating the walls, rug, furniture, and accessories throughout the room. Dark colors absorb the light; so keep the walls and flooring a lighter color to create an airy feeling.”

Mirrors: Adding mirrors throughout your small space will reflect light and make the room feel larger than it actually is. To reflect the greatest amount of light, place mirrors across from windows. “For an extra twist, choose architectural-style mirrors to create the illusion of an additional window or door,” she said.

Furniture: “There are many ways to manipulate furniture to make the room seem bigger,” Doreen said. “Raised furnishings with exposed legs are ideal for small rooms as they create the illusion of more space.” Another option is to choose statement furniture that fills a room. “In small living rooms, one large couch instead of multiple small pieces decreases the look of clutter,” she said. Doreen also recommends pulling furniture away from the wall to make the space look more open and prevent a cramped feeling.

Rugs: You can separate one room into smaller spaces by using multiple rugs instead of one large rug. Another option is to use a striped rug to make the room appear longer. “Striped rugs have the same effect as vertical stripes on clothing,” Doreen said. “Orient the stripes to go the length of the room that is longest for optimal effect.”

She added, “It’s easy to make a room feel spacious with the right accessories and design. The Sales Design Consultants at Callen are here to help transform your home and give you that extra leg room.”

For more information or to arrange an initial Design Center consultation, call Callen at 414-529-5509.