10 How To’s to Open Up a Small Space

In a small space, every little bit counts. By applying some clever design concepts, you can make a small room look more spacious and functional. Furniture arranging, use of wall space, color tips and lighting techniques are just some of the ideas we hope will inspire you!

1. Use a light, monochromatic color scheme on the rugs, walls and furniture. Select different textures and shades of your single color.
2. Select light-colored flooring such as light woods, carpet or tile, which will make the room appear brighter and more open. The same applies to the ceiling—use a light color or white to "open up" the space above.
3. When possible, use a rug that extends beyond the furniture in each functional space. For example, in a living area, a rug that sits under the sofa, coffee table and additional seating will draw the eye wider and make that living space appear bigger. 
4. Lighting is a key element in opening up a space. Harsh top-down lighting consolidates all the light in one space. Instead, use a few smaller lamps to spread the light around and draw the eye around the room. A torchiere light is a great choice for bouncing light off the ceiling and back down on the room. 
5. Go with minimalism. Limit the number of accessories to avoid the cluttered feeling. With things neatly arranged and out of sight, the space that is in view will feel orderly and open. 
6. Increase the appearance of the size of the room by adding wall mirrors. They not only reflect images, they reflect light and color. Placing a mirror across from a window is the best way to reflect light and make the room feel larger.
7. Place larger pieces of furniture against the walls to maximize the open space. Scale your furniture to fit the size of the room, and don’t block pathways.
8. Add paintings or prints to the walls. One large painting works better than a group of small paintings.
9. Choose a sofa and chairs with open arms and exposed legs. This allows light to filter under the furniture, making the room appear airier. 
10. Clear or glass tables, whether they’re coffee, dining or end tables, will keep the appearance of an open and free space. 

We hope these ideas that will help you make the most of a room that is limited on space. Through the use of  proper furniture placement, the right accessories, color, lighting and a few other decorating tricks, you can turn your small space into a fabulous one.

Follow Jill Zarin’s design blog for more tips and tricks to beautify your home, favorite indoor and outdoor spaces and more.  Follow on Instagram or Facebook for first release news of new styles. Sign up for the email list to receive special offers at www.jillzarinrugs.com.