Thinking Big in Small Spaces

Don’t have space for a sectional sofa or that large cocktail table in your living room? You’re not alone. In recent years, many Texans have opted for small space styling as opposed to living large. But, just because your space is intimate doesn’t mean it can’t be grand. By strategically implementing space-saving solutions and choosing the right décor, you can maximize your square footage and create that cozy living space you desire!

Here are five tips for making the most of your chic small space.

1. Keep It Light: Natural light is a small space’s best friend. After all, brighter rooms appear larger and more inviting. That’s why it’s imperative to keep your window light as bright as possible. When it comes to window coverings, consider woven blinds or light sheers in lieu of heavy blinds or thick curtains. This will keep light flooding through the room instead of blocking it. But maximizing room lightness doesn’t stop with natural light. To ensure your space is making use of all available light, opt for light-colored paint, furniture and accessories.
2. Avoid Unnecessary Furniture: Small spaces are great places to think outside the box when it comes to interior design. An overstuffed sofa, a large dresser and even a seldom-used dining room table are all pieces that can be replaced with small, space-saving alternatives. Increase your perceived space by ditching the large coffee table for side tables, utilizing under-the-cabinet kitchen space for hanging chic glassware and mounting your TV instead of using a stand. This will improve the flow of your space and allow for the addition of some petite yet fashionable furniture and décor pieces into your home.
3. Consider the Scale: Size does matter when it comes to decorating a small space. And bigger is usually not better. Large or tall pieces will overwhelm a small space and disrupt the flow of the room. Luckily, there are some fabulous furniture options that won’t force you to sacrifice style for space. First, look for hard furnishings with open frames, like glass table tops, acrylic tables, and pedestals. The one exception to this rule? Don’t shy away from large-scale art, which can be the defining element of a small space. Statement art can unite a color scheme and create a single focal point that anchors the room. If the subject is open enough, it can actually make a room feel larger!
4. Get Reflective: Use reflective surfaces to bounce light around the room. It’s a great way to keep your rooms brighter and create the illusion of a larger space by adding depth. You can maximize your space’s natural light by adding mirrors on opposite walls from your windows to reflect the daylight. And, don’t be afraid to think beyond the wall when it comes to mirrors. Mirrored backsplashes in the kitchen or bath, mirrored furniture and even mirrored décor like frames and trays will reflect light and add brightness to any space.
5. Accessorize Wisely: Less is more when it comes to accessories in a small space — but those accessories certainly don’t need to be boring. For a small-space approved design statement, integrate a few large pieces or a cluster of smaller accessories to keep the look minimalistic yet uniquely you. Accessories bathed in large-scale patterns and bright pops of color add interest to cozy spaces without making the space feel too busy.

From adding light to integrating key pieces into your posh space, there are myriad ways to maximize your small space style. If you need some advice, I would love to guide you.

Contact Nicole Arnold Interiors at 214-326-1160.

After all, you don’t need a big space to live large.