Have a teeny-tiny space that you don’t know what to do with? Decorating small rooms is typically much harder than decorating large ones, but plenty of tips and tricks can help you make even the tiniest of spaces functional and beautiful. There are also a few things you should avoid when decorating a small space. Here are some mistakes to avoid when decorating a small space and some advice on what to do instead.
Picking a Dark Palette
Darker colors absorb light, so using too many dark colors can make your space feel claustrophobic and dreary. To avoid this, choose a light-colored palette instead. Light colors reflect light to give the space a brighter and roomier appearance. You can still use dark colors as accents; just don’t go overboard!
And if you’re trying to use wall paint to make the space look bigger, make sure to use a high-gloss or semi-gloss finish (such as eggshell or satin). Glossy finishes are more reflective to help you maximize light.
Spacing Out on Vertical Space
You have more to work with than just the floor. The next mistake to avoid when decorating a small space is forgetting to use vertical space.
When it comes to small rooms, you need to utilize both the horizontal (floor) and vertical (wall) space. Cover the wall with shelves to store your favorite books and trinkets. Need more seats? Use the space under your windows for built-in seating. And if you want to maximize your space’s brightness without painting it, hang mirrors next to or across from your windows.
Going Crazy on Clutter
In a smaller room, less is more. Try not to go overboard with furniture and decor. Otherwise, your space will end up crowded and hard to navigate. It will also look chaotic.
When choosing furniture and decor for your small space, look for items that are compact and multi-functional. That means tables with drawers and couches with under-seat storage. Don’t have enough space for a TV stand? Mount your TV to the wall. Need somewhere to work? Opt for a foldable desk that you can put away when not in use.
Try to avoid items such as floor lamps and floor plants. Swap them instead for versions that you can place on tables or string from the ceiling. It will save you valuable floor space.