We like our houses small here in the UK. Well, not too sure about the liking part, but they are definitely built with an average size that sees us at the very back in statistics looking at house sizes. The United Kingdom’s homes average just 818 sq. ft. – which means that we have quite an abundance of rooms that are snug, small, and more often than not, cramped. Luckily, there are ways to make your space look bigger without having to knock down walls or embark on a costly renovation project. 

Clutter has always been the arch-nemesis of spaciousness. So, start by taking a Marie Kondo-inspired approach to things and declutter your space with ruthless efficiency. By keeping only the essentials, half of your work will already be done.

Utilise Vertical Space and Multi-Purpose Furniture

When floor space is at a premium, often-overlooked vertical dimensions are your best friend. Tall bookcases, floor-to-ceiling curtains, and wall-mounted storage solutions draw the eye upward and make the most of every inch of available space. It not only adds visual interest but also frees up the valuable floor space we are looking for. Have a look at awkward spaces, too. Consider incorporating fitted wardrobes into eaves or alcoves, or storage systems underneath the stairs. 

Choose your furniture pieces cleverly as well. In a small space, every piece of furniture needs to earn its keep. Choose pieces that serve multiple purposes, such as a storage ottoman that doubles as a coffee table or a sleeper sofa for overnight guests. By eliminating unnecessary furniture and consolidating functions, you can streamline your space and create a more open and versatile environment. Bonus tip: furniture that sits directly on the floor can make a room feel heavy and crowded. An easy solution to this is choosing pieces with raised legs, that allow light to flow freely underneath, creating a sense of openness. 

Take Advantage of Mirrors, Lighting, and Colours

Speaking of light: Adequate lighting is the main key to making a small space fe3e larger and more inviting. Try to maximise natural light by keeping windows clear of heavy curtains and using sheer or translucent window treatments instead. Additionally, if natural light is sparse, supplement it with strategically placed lamps, sconces, and overhead fixtures to banish dark corners and create a bright and airy ambience. Mirrors can help with this! As the ultimate illusionists, strategically placed ones can instantly create the illusion of depth and expansiveness. Choose large, floor-to-ceiling mirrors or arrange a gallery wall of smaller mirrors to bounce light around the room and automatically visually enlarge the space. This works great for slim hallways, too!

And when it comes to paint colours, lighter shades always reign supreme. Soft hues like white, cream, pale grey, and pastels reflect light naturally. Consider painting both walls and ceilings in the same light colour to eliminate visual boundaries on top of that, creating a seamless expanse.