Seeing is believing so trick the eye with these 16 size-boosting tips
1. colour code
Even if it’s just books, fles and knick-knacks that you stash away in open shelves, the end result can look like unkempt clutter. To avoid a messy and constrained space, implement some structure by arranging items according to colour. This creates a more streamlined and soothing effect to the eye.
2. ceiling strip
Distract the eye from the limited foor space by drawing attention to the ceiling. Painting your entire ceiling mightoverwhelm your space, so paint just a strip of it in a contrasting hue to elongate the area.
3. double vision
Mirrors are the oldest and still the most effective trick in the bag to enlarge the visual size of a home. Many variations abound; from the basic full-length clear mirror to the more classy bronze tinted ones.
4. less is more
Contrary to the belief of some homeowners, dressing your home with multiple, small pieces of furniture are not advisable for petite spaces. The scattered arrangement of separate furnishings will take up more visual space than one large sofa for example.
5. bench seats
Instead of the conventional dining table and chairs confguration, go for bench seats that will take up less visual space and also look neater. Bench seats can also be tucked snugly under the table to occupy minimal space.
6. arms free
Most homeowners tend to go for sofas and chairs with armrests. For petite homes however, seating without arms will be a better choice since they can seat more people within constrictions.
7. open storage
Because closed shelving will take up more visual space by closing in walls, open shelving is a better option for storage and decor items. Whether against the wall or as a divider, the see-through effect helps advocate the fow of light, air and space. However, keeping a neat and orderly system is necessary to avoid clutter.
8. made to match
Custom-built cabinetry is the best bet for tight spaces, because it can incorporate your appliances and fxtures seamlessly for a fushed fnish. Appliances like the refrigerator, oven and in this case, the wine chiller, are kept fushed against the cabinetry for a clean and neat kitchen profle.
9. suspended cabinetry
It might not seem like much, but having your furnishings suspended and kept off the foor can greatly increase the amount of foor area in your home. This is especially so for full-height cabinets, since they tend to be rather imposing in size. By having a suspended cabinet, you can maximise storage space but maintain a spacious feel at the same time.
10. striped walls
Spaces with more height evoke an airier and roomier feel, and you can achieve that by painting one wall in vertical stripes. The colourful wall will function as a perfect focal point while stretching your space. For a similar effect, put up striped wallpaper.
11. ample daylight
Good lighting, especially natural sunlight, can greatly increase the feeling of space in a small room. Try not to obstruct the windows with large pieces of furniture and keep windows grille-less to let more daylight stream in.
12. room uniformity
Have no more than three main colours in one room. Apply this tri-colour scheme to the walls, foors and your furnishings. With your furniture blending n seamlessly with the setting, the eye enjoys a soothing and clean picture nstead of a cluttered, arring one.
13. invisible furnishings
Needless to say, transparent furniture will create the illusion of being almost non-existent. But there’s no need to stick to transparent glass or plastic pieces; their coloured counterparts will achieve the same effect with a hint of fun. Thin metal or steel pieces like these dining chairs also appear lightweight.
14. cove light
Cove lighting is a common ceiling feature in many homes, and with good reason. It offers the impression of a foating ceiling and thus, evokes a sense of spaciousness for the entire space.
15. higher curtains
Hanging your curtains closer to the ceiling instead of just above your window frame brings extra height into a room. Hanging a curtain from a height creates dimension and the illusion of height; thus enabling even a small space to look bigger.
16. low-rise furniture
Having low-rise pieces gives the eye more room to roam; hence resulting in a seemingly more open space. One common choice is to host the bed on a raised platform nstead of a bulky bedframe. You can even opt for hidden storage underneath a custom-made platform.
