Don’t let these decorating mistakes cramp your style. We’re sharing our no-fail tips for making the most of your square footage—no contractor required. These are all things you can implement into your space to take advantage of your square footage, regardless if you have a small or a large room. We commonly make these mistakes, and often don’t realize just how tiny it is making our space look. By trying one or two of these tips, you just may find that your room opens up again and you can finally breath.
Buying An Oversized Bed
It’s time to say goodbye to that four-post and think on a smaller scale. Upholstered headboards are a great way to make an impact without leaving your room feeling closed in. Whatever you do, don’t break the bank on this purchase—you should be able to find beautiful, statement-making options for less than $300.
Painting The Walls Dark Colors
If your space is already small, skip the dark hues and think light and bright walls. Bring bold pops of color with throw pillows and fresh flowers.
Choosing Busy Wallpaper
If you choose to wallpaper your space, stick to one focal wall, and be sure to choose a pattern that’s easy on the eyes. This is no time for hundreds of flower buds in a dizzy array of colors—actually, it might never be the right time for that.
Having Bulky Furniture
If you’re trying to keep your space open and airy, skip the heavy furniture in favor of clean lines and unassuming silhouettes that won’t make the space feel heavy. And remember, if you have two nightstands they don’t need to match. It’s all about coordinating.
Not Cleaning Up Clutter
Maybe this should have been enemy number one on our list. Whether it’s that stack of mail, tiny knick-knacks, or dirty laundry in the corner, when things are out of place your space can suddenly feel cramped. Having a proper place for everything will help you stay organized and eliminate the potential for a cluttered situation.
Heavily Dressing Your Windows
When it comes to getting your beauty rest, skip the heavy blackout drapes and opt for an eye mask instead. Even when they’re open, heavy drapes still have the potential to block out some of that wonderful natural light that your space needs.
Not Incorporating Enough Light
We might sound like a broken record at this point, but light really is your best friend when combatting a small space. Sconces hanging on either side of the bed are a great space-saving option for a small bedroom. If you have a reading nook, a lamp will lighten things up without feeling bulky.
Hanging Your Curtain Rods Too Low
One thing that can dramatically increase the feeling of space in your room is hanging your curtains at the right height. Instead of hanging them directly above the window, hang them about midway between the window and the ceiling. Hanging your curtains from this height will elongate your walls, which will in turn make your ceilings seem higher than they actually are.
Putting Furniture In High-Traffic Areas
Having furniture in high-traffic zones will certainly close off your space. Plus, who likes having to move around a piece of furniture every time they enter a room? Avoid the chaos altogether and start rearranging. Look for ways you can remove furniture from those areas, or simply declutter them. This will surely give your room a more inviting feel.
Not Implementing Mirrors
A thoughtfully placed mirror will open up the room by adding more visual space. With the right mirror, the room will feel much bigger than it is. Try incorporating a circle mirror above your dresser, or a classic stand-up mirror in the corner of the room.
