How to Make Your Space Bigger Without Major Renovations

When it comes to interiors, we always like to dream bigger than what our spaces allow us to. Or we simply want to feel a bit more spacious in our areas. But what happens when you don’t have that “space” to make it “bigger”? I often see how disappointed people feel when they cannot have those dreamy, big spaces. But all of this has various solutions.

The truth is that every space, big or small, can make the wrong impression and trick our minds into perceiving it differently if we don’t know how to properly style it. In other words, it doesn’t matter if you already have a big space—if you don’t add the right colors and appropriate furniture, it will always feel smaller than it should. So, have you ever thought that your space feels smaller because it’s not properly styled?

Today, I’m sharing my favorite interior design tricks to make small rooms look bigger. Tips that will help you make the most of every space and trick the mind into believing that you added a few inches to your home.

The Color Palette

Colors are the compass of your designs. This crucial part of developing the design concept will make a big difference in how spacious your space looks, and how well it aligns with the style you are trying to recreate. The way colors affect a space can alter how we perceive it. Some shades make us feel uncomfortable, and others give us peace. But which ones should you pick?

• Avoid dark colors at all costs. Dark colors can give a mysterious, elegant touch to your spaces; however, these same colors can also make them feel smaller. In other words, if you like to use dark colors but want a bigger space, consider using them as an accent rather than the main color. Play around with pillows, decorations, lamp shades, or even an accent chair in dark tones. Just make sure you don’t overfill the room with too many dark details—otherwise, your space will still look small.

• Pastel and light colors are your best option. Having neutral pastel colors as the main ones in your space has many benefits, and one of them is helping the space feel bigger than it is. Pastel colors have the ability to reflect light, which gives the illusion of a wider area. These shades also give a sense of calm, making them even more appropriate to create an open atmosphere. Carefully select a color palette that includes pastel colors as mains—apply it on walls and large furniture to fully see the effects.

Space Configuration and Layout

There are many ways to play around with the space you already have. The way we place our furniture, and the type of furniture we include, plays a crucial role in making a space feel more spacious.

• The right size of furniture. This is important not only if you want the space to look bigger, but also for decoration in general. Having the right size for each element helps with the harmony the space can transmit. When it comes to making the space feel bigger, choosing pieces that are too large (sofa, table, even lamps) can shift the vibe from an open atmosphere to a claustrophobic one. But remember—it’s about the right size. Adding furniture that’s too small can also have negative effects, making the space feel overly large and under-furnished, which is not ideal either.

  
  

  

  
  

• Add large windows. This option involves a bit more logistics, and it will strictly depend on whether your space allows it. Windows are the perfect element to include in any area you want to make look bigger. They not only let in more natural light during the day, but they also create a connection with the outdoors that makes you feel like the room extends beyond its actual walls. The illusion of a bigger space that windows provide is unmatched. If you can include them, make sure they’re large so you can accomplish this effect successfully.

  
  

• Play around with your ceilings. You can create the illusion of a taller space with a tray ceiling. If your space has enough height to include this, it’s your go-to option! This modern and popular ceiling design not only gives a high-end touch to your space, but also helps make it feel bigger by adding the illusion of height. If you want to make it even more appealing, add LED strip lights to set the mood.

Decoration and Details

As you’ve probably heard before—every detail matters, and beauty is in the details. Decoration plays an important role in creating the illusion of a bigger space.

• Mirrors: the solution par excellence. Mirrors have the great characteristic of “reflecting”—and although it might sound obvious, they are not only used for seeing ourselves. In decoration, they can reflect light and surroundings, creating the illusion of a larger room. This easy and budget-friendly option is the go-to for many people looking to add depth to their areas without breaking the bank. But as intuitive as it sounds, there are some things to consider: don’t be shy with them. Use large mirrors that can cover as much area as your design concept allows, and place them strategically—meaning, place them where they can reflect both light and parts of the room so the effect is recreated perfectly.

  
  

  

  
  

• Reflective elements. Don’t limit yourself to large mirrors only. Decorative elements can also contribute to this reflective effect. If you have a shelf, make sure to include décor items that help reflect light. Again, every detail counts!

  
  

• Flooring: reflective, clear flooring. This solution involves more logistics and investment. Flooring can make a big difference in how your space is perceived—whether it feels bigger or smaller. A dark, non-reflective floor will absorb light and won’t contribute to creating an open atmosphere. On the other hand, a reflective, light-colored floor can create a double effect, combining the benefits of mirrors and pastel colors. It reflects light and makes the space feel bigger.

Making the Impossible, Possible – A Bigger Space in the Same Small Space

What we thought was impossible turns out to be possible. You don’t necessarily have to move out or jump right into construction to expand your area. You can apply some of the tricks above and create the illusion of a bigger space. From using pastel colors to including reflective elements, the mind can be tricked into feeling that the area is wider—or even taller—than it actually is.

Every space has potential; we just have to use the right elements. And with this guide, I’m sure you’ll be able to create that effect of a bigger space that you’ve been wanting for so long.

Stay creative!