When it comes to our homes, many of us are looking for ways to make them feel bigger. And with good reason – during these times when we’re largely confined to our homes, the last thing we want is to feel cramped and claustrophobic. Fortunately, there are a few simple tricks that can help make your home feel more spacious and open.
1. Remove Clutter
Clutter can make even the largest of spaces feel cramped and small. By removing clutter to create large, flat, open surfaces, you create an illusion of more space. Not only will your home feel bigger, but you’ll also be able to focus better and think more clearly.
2. Hang Mirrors
Mirrors can be used to open up a room and make it feel more spacious. When you hang mirrors on the walls, they reflect light and create an illusion of space. And because we associate large spaces with safety, it alleviates the perception of being confined – we’ll feel safer in the environment which makes us less anxious.
3. Add Window Treatments
One way to make a room feel more spacious is by adding window treatments. Curtains, drapes, and blinds can all help to add dimension and make a room feel bigger. By using light colors or sheer fabrics, you can allow natural light to come into the room and brighten it up. This will not only make the space feel bigger but also more cheerful.
4. Paint the Walls a Light Color
When it comes to making a room feel bigger, one of the simplest tricks is to paint the walls a light color. Light colors reflect light and make a space feel more open. They also make a room feel more cheerful and inviting. They automatically brighten your mood, improving the way you perceive the space.
5. Use Solid Colors Everywhere
Many people believe that using a variety of colors in their home will make it feel more open and spacious. In reality, this is not the case.
In order to create an illusion of space, you need to use only solid colors – one color per wall. By doing this, you are minimizing distractions and creating an environment where your focus can be clear and uninterrupted. With a single color unifying the room (especially a lighter color), the walls almost fade from perception. You could also use a different color for an accent wall, drawing attention to it causing you to effectively ignore the other walls.
6. Use Soft Textures
Soft textures are soothing for the body and mind.
Soft textures provide a contrast that can help soften the hard edges, right angles of your walls. This feels comforting and is relaxing for both our bodies and minds because it activates our parasympathetic nervous system – this system decreases stress levels by slowing your heart rate, lowering blood pressure, easing tension in muscles, etc. The result? You feel calmer and more relaxed when surrounded by soft textures.
7. Avoid Large Objects That Dominate The Rooms
Too often, we fill our homes with large, imposing objects that take up too much space and dominate the room. While these objects may be beautiful and can make a dramatic statement in larger spaces, they can make a smaller space feel smaller and more cramped. By avoiding large objects and choosing pieces that are more proportional to the size of the room, you create an environment that is both aesthetically pleasing and spacious.
8. Add Plants
Adding plants to your home is a great way to create a sense of space. Not only do they add visual interest and beauty, but they also have the ability to transform a room, making it feel more open and spacious. Plants help to soften edges and create a calming effect, which is why they are often used in Feng Shui. By adding plants to your home, you can achieve a more relaxing and Zen-like atmosphere that will make you feel instantly at ease.
BONUS: Make use of Built-In Storage Space
We all have those small spaces in our homes which seem to be useless and non-functional. But often, these spaces can be put to good use if we simply make use of the built-in storage space that is already available.
Built-in storage can come in many different forms – from cabinets and shelves to nooks and crannies to furniture that doubles as additional storage space. By making use of all the available space, you can avoid clutter and create a more organized and functional home without taking up any extra square footage.
Making a few simple changes to your home can make it look and feel bigger. Picking the right colors, textures, and objects can go a long way in creating an illusion of space. And don’t forget about plants! They not only add beauty but also have the ability to transform a room, making it feel more open and spacious. With just a few tweaks, you can create the perfect environment for both relaxing and entertaining guests.
