Making Your Living Space Look and Feel Bigger

These days, making our living spaces comfortable and functional is more important than ever.  Afterall, many of us are, well, staying home.  Whether you’re in a single family home or you rent a 1 bedroom apartment, how you organize your furniture and arrange your space for functionality can make all the difference. 


Although I’m no expert in interior design, I’ve gathered some organization tips that I think can maximize your space and make it feel like home.  


Storage


Storage is of the essence, no matter the size of your dwellings.  For instance, you could incorporate a storage ottoman in your living space where you can keep things like blankets and extra pillows.  Or, you can buy storage cubicles that camouflage like a piece of furniture.  No one will notice that you are actually using them for functionality. 


Floating Wall Shelves


These are always nice for displaying pictures, plants and other items like books or clocks.  They also give you space that “home-y” feeling without taking up space.


Furniture


If you have an oversized couch, it may be time to trade it in for something less bulky.  Oversized furniture like sofas and dressers can take up way too much space, and make the room it is located in appear smaller.  Collapsible furniture is also a game-changer, especially if you are working at home.  You can find desks and coffee tables that turn into dining room tables, desks that fold down from the wall, and more. 


Curtains


If you live in a studio apartment, curtains can be used to divide and define spaces.  Additionally, hanging curtains at ceiling height rather than right above your window will give your apartment the appearance of lofted ceilings, making it feel more spacious.


Artificial Lighting 


If your space lacks natural lighting, it can be beneficial to purchase some light fixtures and lamps.  Don’t rely on ceiling lighting only. In nearly all cases, it will make the corners of the room appear dark and the room itself smaller. 


Use Light Colored Paint


Whether you own the property or your landlord allows it, using light colored paint on the walls can visually expand a small room.  Painting a small space with a dark color will only make it feel confined. This doesn’t mean you are only limited to white.   You could choose light earthy tones and sea shades - just aim to pick the lightest version of your color of choice.


At the end of the day, you want your living space to be inviting and warm.  You don’t have to be an interior designer to make this happen, just follow a few of the above tips and remember that you can have the tools to make your living space into a home. 

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