5 Ways to Make Small Rooms Look Larger  Part 2

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
2. Utilize Multi-Functional Pieces
3. Take Advantage of Reflections

4. Frame Your Windows
Lighter, neutral colors work best for window drapes in small rooms. Heavy drapes make small spaces appear smaller. To achieve the opposite effect, try adding sheer drapes to the room. As a result, natural light will shine in, and you will maintain some privacy in the room. Choose a vertical pattern, such as stripes, if you want interior window treatments with some pizzazz. The stripes will draw your eyes upward and make the ceilings look higher.

5. Incorporate a Couple of Large Items
It may seem contradictory, but you don’t need small items in a small space. It may make the room look full of miniatures. Instead, try adding one or two large pieces. However, there is some design strategy involved in an oversized item selection. For example, choose a low-profile sofa to exaggerate the distance between the couch and the ceiling. Low-profile furniture will make the walls appear elongated.

For more information on design trends, contact the Central WA Home Builders Association, or visit 
www.CWHBA.org