subject: 5 Tips For Decorating Small Spaces [print this page] Creating a design for a room that is to your taste visually and that also works for you on a practical level can be difficult but especially so when that space is small. You will be faced with many choices in terms of furniture and decoration and the decisions you make will ultimately decide the success of your room design. In effect there will be certain functions you need your room to provide and in this regard clever use of the space means that you don't necessarily need to compromise on function. You can still achieve the look you want by allowing your space to multitask. The following tips should help you achieve a design scheme that you are more than happy with.
1.Use Light Colors
Dark colors can be oppressive in a small space. If you choose light colors such as neutrals and pastels for your main items such as wall and floor decor and large furniture pieces, you can create the illusion of a greater space. That is not to say that you can't use dark colors, but I would use these in smaller accessory items or perhaps on an accent wall.
2.Glass and Perspex Furniture
If you choose glass and clear perspex furniture your space will appear less cluttered. The transparent nature of your furniture will allow light to travel through it, making it almost invisible to those viewing your room. Glass tables are widely available from furniture stores. Although glass and perspex chairs were once the realm of high-end, contemporary designers, they are becoming more accessible.
3.Select Multifunctional Furniture
Where possible I would advise you to choose pieces of furniture that serve more than one purpose. This could be a coffee table that has some concealed storage, for example.
4.Stackable and Foldable Furniture
Furniture that folds neatly away or that can be stacked in a small space, provides you with the opportunity to increase the function of your room. If you have a small bedroom that you need to use as a home office, a wall bed can be folded out of sight during the day while you work. If you wish to entertain guests, but do not have the space for a large dining table and the accompanying chairs in permanent position, you could choose a dining table that folds and chairs that either fold or can be stacked. You will have the benefit of using them when required without them overcrowding your room on a day to day basis.
5.Mirrors
Adding large mirrors to your room will reflect your space and make it appear larger. You might place one opposite the entrance to your room or on a wall at the end of your room to give the impression of greater depth to your space.
Space is at a premium these days and we often don't have as much room space as we would ideally like. This does not mean that we have to compromise on style and function. There can be challenges but the rewards of overcoming these challenges and creating a room that we love can be great.
