5 Ways to Make Small Rooms Look Larger  Part 1

Only some homes have a grand foyers, great rooms and huge living areas. More often, homes have at least one small room.
Homeowners can enjoy smaller spaces and make them look larger with the right design approach. You can create the illusion of space with simple modifications to a small room, such as adding natural light or selecting multi-functional furniture. To get started, consider the following design tips:

1. Declutter Your Space
The best place to start is by taking stock of the items in the room. You may be surprised by how much space you have. Start by decluttering your space. For example, experts recommend sorting things into keep, put away, recycle or trash, and donate piles. This technique can help you organize and simplify your space. Simplicity is critical for making any room look bigger.

2. Utilize Multi-Functional Pieces
Once you’ve removed some items from a small room, think about what furniture or objects in the room can serve a dual purpose. For example, furniture such as benches, ottomans and coffee tables may come equipped with storage solutions. Hidden storage makes a room feel more spacious without removing any frequently used items.

3. Take Advantage of Reflections
Strategically placed mirrors can visually expand your space. If a small area has a window, set the mirror near it. The trick is ensuring natural light reflects off the mirror to make the room look large and inviting.

For more information on design trends, watch out for next week’s Exchange article, contact the Central WA Home Builders Association, or visit www.CWHBA.org