Tips to Decorate Small Spaces - EP14

Having small spaces can be a headache, and a migraine if you want or need to be decorated. Since the population is getting bigger and the cities are running out of space, Small spaces are being the most effective ways in many buildings, but a problem many people face is that they don’t know how to make a great decoration on such a place, or don’t know if it is possible. First of all, of course it is possible, and second, as small as a space might be, there are different ways you can decorate it. Here are my best tips:

Avoid big furniture. 

I would make an extra effort to avoid those big sofas or huge coffee tables. These tend to eat the whole place up and you will notice this, probably too late. Sometimes the spaces are not that small, but with this easy mistake, it can cost you a lot of the area wasted and the budget of course. Cheer yourself up! This means you actually have enough space, just have to look for the right furniture and accessories.

The beauty of light colors.

For small spaces, light colors for walls are essential. White, gray, or beige are the most used to make a place feel a lot bigger than what it really is. Along with these, a light color can make a place feel brighter and it also can help to make it feel bigger. This is because the light painted walls are reflective and tend to maximize the natural light effect, turning a place with the illusion that is bigger than what it really is. 

Use mirrors.

If you’re going with this technique, I recommend using those big and elegant mirrors. It’s no use if you put a mini mirror out there in a corner, because it will have the opposite effect. Instead get those full length mirrors or those big rounded sun-like mirrors with a fancy frame just to get  people's attention. This helps since it reflects 100% what it has in front of and simulates another room or a bigger space. 

Develop colors in the furniture.

Having everything painted in white doesn’t mean the whole place is going to be that color. On the contrary, incorporating colors is a Must, as long as you do it correctly. The best way to do so is by including them with the furniture or anything you’ll place, for example rugs, some chairs, a few lamps or even the cushions. Here you can play not only with colors but patterns and textures. Place some paintings, or curtains with these beautiful patterns. It’s all about not saturating the place, just the right amount.

Keep the essentials. 

The minimalist tendency has proven to make the place look a lot bigger since this style develops pure and elegant looks. Don’t think that you need to put a lot of things in a room to make it feel decorated. It doesn't work that way. Instead, put only the essentials and what you like most. Remove everything that you’re not using: too many magazines, some clothes on the floor. Avoid hanging too many frames or putting too many objects on tables. This will even make the place look smaller. This exercise may awaken your tidy personality. 

Incorporate greens.

Nature has the power to soothe some emotions and decompress when feeling overwhelmed. Putting a few plants here and there will give the place the depth and freshness that it needs. 

I recommend putting one or two considerable big plants just to get the attention or even a few plant pots in some corners. Some people prefer mini cactuses on the table, they’re cute, but not very inviting. Either way, find your place with nature and decide what’s best for you.   

Rule of three - repetition.

The rule of three has proven to be an esthetic solution in interior design. Groups of three or more will maintain order, balance, sequence and variety. Here you can play with sizes, colors and shapes. As it is in Literature, the rule of three creates a more satisfying, entertaining and effective environment. Three hanging lamps, three photo frames, three pillows, and three colors. You can play with this rule with the heights of the objects too, in a continuous order or on the contrary, alternating heights. Lately, this last option has been the most used since it creates a spontaneous look. 

An Extra tip: Maintain the place organized and clean. Nothing is better than entering a place with a nice smell and everything in order. I’m not saying this because I’m paranoid about cleaning, quite the opposite, as much as I hate cleaning all the time. I have to recognize that a place feels more decent and presentable, if there are no dirty clothes lying around or a dirty plate on the table with some supermarket bags. The less saturated, the better.

Of course this is a suggestion, since every space has its singularities and it’s up to you to decide which options are best suited for you. Remember, you are the designer here, you know this place and its potential to transform into what it's supposed to be. Hiring an interior designer can also get the job done, but if you’re not sure whether you need one here’s a video that can help you decide to decorate such a place.