Yes, you can live it up in a small space. Here are some no-fail design tricks to make a tiny floor plan look and feel larger.
Take down walls and doors to free up space
By taking down the boundary walls in the communal zones, the amount of light and air in your shared living and dining space can be greatly enhanced. While it does open up a boundless visage of space, the identity of each zone gets lost with similar design treatments. Using visual markers such as area rugs will help to subtly demarcate each area and won’t affect the space-enhancing magic.
Design: Aexpertise
If taking down an entire wall is too much for your, the next closest thing is to install a glass panel. It is suited for a wet zone such as the kitchen or bathroom but what people don’t consider is that these see-through panels will also show off unholy messes. If you can keep clutter under control, you will benefit from this exhibitionist treatment which will bathe your space in good light.
Design: Story of Us
A neutral foundation instantly enlarges your space
The best all-around colour to make a space feel expansive is of course, white. Put whitewashing everything on hold first though – too much of this anti-colour can render a cold, stark or even dull look. What you want to do is throw in accents with a strong colour contrast and deep textures but in small, impactful doses.
Image credit: IKEA
Fool the eye into thinking you have extra room
A tried-and-tested trick to tricking the eye is to go for half-height, rather than full-height, fittings to free up floor space. Otherwise, go for standalone furniture pieces to allow your space to “breathe”. This is because although custom-built furniture can fill up every inch of your space to minimise wastage, the appearance it takes on is usually bulky. Sleek, open shelves such as this, however, change this perception with its lightweight structure and classy monochromatic colours.
Image credit: By Lassen
Mirrors are a small home’s best friend
We all know how shiny surfaces such as mirrors can help animate petite spaces. However, you do need to consider hanging it at a strategic position. Have it face the window, an open door or lush greenery so it is reflecting elements that draw in more light, air and space. This Mirror Mirror piece by Functionals pushes the envelope with its dual-function of a small portable face mirror.
Design: Brim Design
Go for multi-purpose furniture that work harder and smarter
If lack of space is a problem, these well-designed furnishings will fit right in a cosy crib because they are versatile, flexible and space-saving.
Bontempi Dublino Extendable Dining Table from Lifestorey
This was adapted from an article originally written by Disa Tan published in the August 2016 issue of SquareRooms.
