Uncover the Hidden Design Flaws in Your Home
You can make a small house feel more spacious without needing a large space. On the other hand, even a big house can feel cramped and enclosed due to various design mistakes. From clutter and wrong paint colors to bulky furniture and low ceilings, these are the errors that Paula Taylor, the head stylist and trend specialist at Graham & Brown, points out that could be making your home seem smaller.
Meet the Expert
Paula Taylor is the head stylist and trend specialist at Graham & Brown.
Clutter
The negative impact of clutter on our homes and our mental well-being is undeniable. Too much stuff, no matter how cherished, can lead to a sense of disorder. Opt for lighter items, decorate with moderation, and arrange your shelves in a way that draws the eye upwards. Leave space between objects and start with less, gradually adding more until you find the right balance, whether it’s with furniture placement, creating a gallery wall, or arranging pillows on a sofa.
Overuse of Patterns
While maximalism can be fun, it can be overwhelming in smaller spaces, making them feel crowded and cluttered, according to Taylor. To tackle this issue, she suggests choosing lighter-colored patterns and textures that complement each other. Let fabric swatches and paint chips guide you when starting from scratch. A mood board can help ensure everything works together harmoniously before making changes.
Low Ceilings
Dark-colored ceilings, whether they are actually low or not, can make a room feel more confined. Fortunately, painting them in a lighter color can quickly remedy this issue. For truly low ceilings, mirrors and uplighters can be used strategically to create a more open feel, advises Taylor.
Lack of Natural Light
Blocking windows with heavy furniture, curtains, or other decor can close off a space significantly. Taylor explains that this inhibits natural light flow and makes the room feel disconnected from the outside. To address this, rearrange your space to allow more light in. Use light fabrics and lightweight window treatments to create a sense of openness. Opt for lighter furniture or pieces with glass elements to help windows shine.
Misuse of Dark Paint Colors
While dark colors can define showcase areas, they can also make a room feel closed in or smaller. To avoid this, pair dark colors with lighter neutrals that reflect light and create the illusion of more space.
Tips to Expand Your Space
Taylor suggests four tips to make your home feel more spacious, regardless of its size:
1. Go Neutral: Soft, neutral tones reflect light and create an open and airy feel. Start with paints like Graham & Brown’s Samantha, Artisan, and Chesterfield.
2. Look Up: Use vertical elements to draw the eye upwards.
“Opt for furniture with vertical lines to create a sense of height and openness,” advises Taylor. To declutter your space, ensure it is well-organized with a cohesive color scheme for a light, airy atmosphere. Consider furniture with exposed legs to reduce bulkiness and increase openness. Differentiate spaces with visual cues like patterns and strategic furniture placement rather than physical objects to avoid a closed-in feeling, suggests Taylor. Check out the full article in Southern Living for more tips.
