My first apartment was small, with a tiny living room. A few decorating tricks made the space appear larger than it was.

I divided the living space by positioning the sofa through the middle of the room, creating two zones. A sofa and armchair made up a conversation space, leaving the rest of the room as a dining area accommodating a round table and chairs. I upholstered the armchair and sofa in contrasting fabrics, using lighter colours, adding neutral cushions for contrast.

The walls were painted brick, with glass sliding doors opening to a small balcony. I made some inexpensive
curtains out of striped sheets; being unlined, they filtered light during the day. Vertical stripes gave height, whereas heavier drapes would have made the space feel closed-in.

Opposite the sofa I had a long, low bookcase holding a lamp, TV and sound system. I painted the bookcase the same colour as the walls and other pieces of furniture in complementary light tones, creating an airy atmosphere. A single large piece of artwork in a wooden frame was simpler than a gallery wall of mixed artworks and frames.

Invest in either built-in storage, or a versatile shelving system with a mix of exposed display shelves, cupboards and drawers. The small footprint of a tall shelving unit makes the best use of floorspace.

It’s not always the case that lighter colours will help a room appear larger. I believe that a moody darker colour palette can also work well. When aiming to create a sense of space in a poorly lit small room, try painting the walls a deeper colour, contrasting with a matt white ceiling, glossy white doors, architraves and skirting boards.

Playing with light sources and mirrors is a classic technique to create a magical ambience. Mirrors will bounce light; always check what images the mirrors are reflecting! Consider installing a dimmer for overhead lighting; this simple trick allows you to alter the atmosphere easily.

I enjoy the challenge of making the most of smaller spaces. You can try it too, but if you’re unsure, this will be one of the topics covered in my design master classes later in the year.

Published in the April 2022 Issue of The Trentham Trumpet