Anyone who lives in a small space is faced with the same dilemma – how can we maximize our home’s layout to give the illusion of more space? And if you live in a cozy New York City loft or a chic apartment in Toronto, ON, these small spaces can often become hosts to clutter hotspots. However, with a bit of styling TLC, small spaces and tiny nooks can be a treasure trove of design possibilities with the right accessories.
We reached out to design experts for their best tips and tricks to transform small spaces into usable and functional areas. From double-duty furniture to small space design hacks to trick the eye, here are their tips to add style and function to those empty spaces in your home.
1) Consider the room’s function
When redesigning any small space, consider the function first. Once you’ve determined what you can use the space for, it’s all about the space’s atmosphere and what can be achieved with some lighting and texture. Also, vertical space is key to having a designer look – keep as much as possible off the floor. –BoardThirteen
2) Double-up with multifunctional furniture
Stuck between a wall and a tight spot? Make the most of small spaces with double-duty furniture, and don’t forget to take advantage of vertical space. –Alane Beard Interior Design
3) Create the illusion of depth with mirrors
The best way to maximize a small space is to use mirrors. Mirrors reflect and bounce both natural and artificial light around the room to create the illusion of more space. Another great small space design idea to use mirrors is to create a focal point in your room (such as a fireplace, or piece of artwork) and angle your mirrors toward it to give the illusion of depth. –Eve Morgan Interior Design
4) Stick to a cohesive color palette
In your small space, pick a color palette and stick to it. You can make it feel cozy by adding decor items in different textures and sizes. Also, keep in mind that our eyes naturally gravitate towards odd numbers – group items in 3’s, 5’s, 7’s, etc., and vary their heights and sizes. Most importantly, display what you love front and center as an accent piece, such as an heirloom chair, a signed book, or another treasured decor item. –Dark Entries Design
5) Balance everything out with the right-sized furniture
Don’t be afraid to fill up the space. While you’ll want to choose furniture that’s the right scale for the room, not everything should be small. Try using a large rug and taking advantage of the vertical space by using tall items such as adding a big piece of art on the wall. –Heathermade Home
6) Utilize vertical space
When working with a small space, utilize every inch of square feet you have to work with – even using the room’s height. For example, in a bedroom, adding a loft bed frees up the floor space so you can add a sofa or a desk underneath. Also, adding a mirror visually expands the space, and voilà you have doubled the room size. –CR Intérieur Studio
7) Layer your decor to make sure it doesn’t overwhelm the space
Turn your small entryway into a welcoming space with some layered decor elements. Place an accent lamp on a table with a tray where you can store keys and a wooden crate underneath for bags. When layering accessories, add an assortment of small bowls in various sizes on the tray for functional and stylish storage. Adding in a small task light illuminates the space and also creates definition. Consider adding a plant, a small ascent sculpture, or an empowerment word to set the tone as you leave and return each day. –Rampant Red Design
8) Create less visual clutter
To make a small space seem visually bigger, try using a neutral tonal palette and adding lots of texture. A small space doesn’t mean your furnishings need to be small – think less furniture but cozy and comfortable. Also, maximize storage and have a place for everything – less visual clutter gives a serene and calming feel. –Sarah Swanson Design
9) Revamp a small space with cozy accessories
Turn that small, awkward space into a relaxation station. All you’ll need is a small chaise lounge, an end table with enough space for your wine glass and aromatherapy humidifier, install a couple of wall shelves for your favorite reads, and a dim-light light bulb for an arched floor lamp. Voila, time to kick up your feet and retreat. –HMGRL Interiors
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