A guide to creating the illusion of space at home

 

Space is an incredibly valuable commodity when it comes to the home. We pay a premium for it (particularly in heavily developed areas and cities) and it can make our homes feel not only more spacious but more lived in and lighter too. In some situations, however, there might be no more space to create. Sometimes, we have to do the best with what we’ve got and that’s exactly what this guide is for.

So, prepare to open up your living space with a few top tips for creating an illusion of space in your home without spending a fortune (or knocking any walls down).

Mirrors

The more mirrored surfaces in your room, the more chance that light will have to reflect and fill the space, making it feel more open and more spacious. Go around the room examining which parts you want to be reflected and angle your mirrors with precision. Try matching this with plenty of glass panelling (and stick to glass tables where possible) and you’ll soon start to feel like your home has taken on a new and more expansive lease of life.

Bi-fold doors

Bi-fold doors are an ideal way to bring the outdoors in without losing the sense and the purpose of a room. Especially in rooms that look out to a garden or patio area, they are mostly made of glass, so will flood the room (and your home) with natural light, whilst also giving you and your family a chance to enjoy your garden, even in the coldest moments of winter. It’s thought that bi-fold doors can add property value to your home of up to 6% too, so not only will it make your home feel larger it can also be seen as an investment.

Light it up

Lighting is crucial in how we perceive space so be smart with it: Keep your lighting low, as this will limit the amount of shadow (which always makes a room seem smaller) and illuminate the corners wherever possible. Also, pendant lights are a more modern and flexible alternative to more ornate traditional options.

Furniture

Be selective and sparing with your furniture choices. Don’t stuff tiny rooms with massive sofas and keep materials light (beech wood is always a good choice) and minimalistic. Filling your space with ‘stuff’ will make it feel smaller, no matter how large it is. It’s an old adage but it still rings true – when it comes to furniture; less is more.

Curtains

Fight the urge to hang heavy curtains, even in the winter months when it might seem like a good idea. Fit your curtains above the tops of the windows and make sure they reach the floor as this will make your windows seem like they’re bigger than they actually are.