Ask the Experts: 4 Ways to Decorate a Small Room
Good things come in small packages.
When it comes to looking for small-space decor ideas, we've all been there. If you live in a small apartment and need decor ideas, we've got you covered. Keep reading for our easy-to-hack tips for decorating a small room.
Tip: Before beginning, it might help to do a little decluttering. Don't know where to start? Say no more. Check out our guides 5 Steps to Successfully Declutter Your Home and How to Organise Every Room in Your Home
1. Storage Is Your Friend
Multipurpose pieces that look great and give you extra storage will instantly upgrade any small space.
For small living rooms, consider a storage ottoman. You can hide extra chargers, blankets and your want-to-read books in one place, giving you more surface area to use for lighting and decor.
In a small bedroom, place a storage bench at the foot of your bed. You can store spare bedding and towels inside, creating more space in your linen closet for skincare and makeup products. Your freed-up bathroom counters will simplify your morning routine.
In a small, open-concept living room/dining room combo, consider placing a sideboard between the two areas to visually define the spaces. A sideboard is just the thing for storing special-occasion serveware and extra kitchen essentials – especially if your larder is nonexistent.
2. Create Depth
One of the hardest parts of decorating a small room is that tiny spaces can really lack depth. Layering pieces gives the eye more to look at and creates visual depth. One of our top ways to do this is with a wall hanging – this gives off an artsy vibe, adds texture and doesn't take up any floor space.
Chunky blankets and a couple of cushions can add cosiness and extra texture. Bold decor in mixed materials, like using both ceramic and glass vases in the same vignette, create a layered look. Keep windows free of window treatments to let in all of that good natural light.
The key to decorating a small space is being able to work with what you've got. Keep the floor areas open and use walls to your advantage – this is especially great if you live in a lofted apartment with high ceilings.
Free up surfaces by putting up wall lights instead of using lamps. Hang a floating shelf to show off your plants and books or to prop up your art. If you have a long dresser or sideboard up against the wall, layer two mirrors on top of it for extra depth and added brightness.
And speaking of the walls, consider pulling living room furniture away from the wall and making it float in the middle of the room. This will provide a lot more walking space, as well as a room that feels more fluid.
Show your small space some love by experimenting with colours and patterns. By switching up the patterns in your space, you give the eye a lot to look at. Ground the room by keeping to three patterns or colours; less than that and it feels boring, more than that and it becomes chaotic.
You can experiment with different decorative objects. These wooden candlesticks really pop against the glass coffee table. (The glass coffee table also gives the illusion of more the space) Alternatively, you can pair a brass lamp with woven coasters. Or try throwing a chunky chenille blanket over a leather sofa.
A bold rug is another great way to make the room look deeper and larger. While you might instinctually gravitate toward a small rug, it can actually make the room feel smaller. Don't hesitate to go big.
Tip: Looking for an even deeper dive into small-space decor ideas? Then you might like:
- How to Make the Most of a Small Living Room
- Smart and Simple Ways to Arrange Furniture in a Small Living Room
- Quick & Easy Small Kitchen Ideas.
