When it comes to giving your small living room a makeover, you don't have to sacrifice style or functionality. With a few clever design strategies, you can create an airy and inviting space that showcases your creativity. In this article, we'll explore seven expert-approved tips to spruce up your small living room and make it feel more spacious.
Start with Neutral Colors
One of the most effective design tricks for small spaces is to use light and neutral shades. Interior designer Natanya-Joy Gidoomal suggests incorporating whites, light woods, and natural fabrics. These colors trick the eye into perceiving more space and create a connection with the outdoors. However, that doesn't mean your living room has to be bland. Interior designer Ariana Lovato recommends keeping the majority of the space neutral and adding pops of color with upholstery or an accent wall.
Embrace Dark Shades for a Bold and Cozy Vibe
Contrary to popular belief, dark colors can actually make a small living room feel more welcoming and intimate. By layering soft textiles like throws and cushions, you can enhance the cozy atmosphere. Using statement-making dark shades throughout the room can also create the illusion of a larger space. Painting your trim the same dark shade as the walls can blur the room edges and prevent the eye from being drawn downward. Don't be afraid to paint your ceiling darker than the walls to add drama and lift the eyes up, creating the perception of greater height.
Image: Dark color walls in living room
Opt for Slimline and Multi-Functional Furniture
When it comes to furniture selection, choose slimline pieces that aren't too imposing. Rather than opting for a chunky sectional sofa, go for one with skinny or low arms, or even without arms. Selecting a sofa on thin, raised legs instead of one touching the ground creates a feeling of space and airiness. Space-saving and multi-functional furniture, such as an ottoman with a tray that doubles as a coffee table, can also maximize the functionality of your small living room. Consider using stools as side tables and floating your furniture away from the walls to create a more cohesive illusion of space.
Make Your Windows Look Bigger
Maximizing the size of your windows, even through simple tricks, can significantly impact the perceived size of your living room. Extend curtain rods beyond the width of the window frame, add window shades just below the rods, or hang the rods higher to create the illusion of larger windows. Hanging sheer curtains also allows more natural light to enter the room, which is always beneficial in small spaces. Additionally, painting the walls surrounding your windows in a dramatic shade can make your windows appear brighter and more prominent.
Harness the Power of Mirrors
Mirrors are not only useful in bathrooms or bedrooms but can also be a game-changer in small living rooms. Bouncing light around with a full-length mirror resting on the floor can make your space seem brighter and more expansive. Positioning a mirror to reflect an open, green garden creates the illusion of the outdoors coming in, making the room feel even larger.
Layer Your Lighting
In smaller spaces, a mixture of lighting can create a visually and functionally balanced atmosphere. Combine floor lamps, ambient table lamps, and recessed accent lights to draw the eye to different places. Adding dimmers to these lighting fixtures allows you to set the perfect ambience. Tall floor lamps and statement pendant light fixtures draw the eye upward, creating a sense of height. Opt for slimline lamp shades or exposed bulbs to save space and maintain a sleek look. Up lighters are great for adding height with light, while table lamps create a more intimate and cozy atmosphere.
Flooring Matters Too
Lastly, don't forget the impact of your flooring choice on your small living room. An area rug can be a practical and stylish addition that opens up the space. Ensure that the rug is large enough so that all four legs of major furniture pieces stay within its borders. Additionally, the grain of wooden floors can create the illusion of a longer or wider room, especially with herringbone patterns. Install the pattern running perpendicular to the longest wall for maximum impact. Finally, light-colored tiles or carpets can lift the space and enhance the perception of size.
By following these expert tips and tricks, you can transform your small living room into a chic and functional space that feels much larger than it actually is. Don't be afraid to experiment with colors, furniture arrangement, and lighting to create a personalized and inviting oasis in your home.
Image Source: Dark color walls in living room - KatarzynaBialasiewicz/Getty Images
