Decorating small living rooms isn’t an easy task, but with the help of some fundamental interior design tips and small-space-know-hows, there’s scope for everyone to improve on their current setup. So, with that in mind, here are a few tips and thoughts to help you get started.
Decorate with Mirrors
Placing your mirrors in the right areas can not only improve the lighting in a space, but it can also help to make your small living room look larger. The reflective nature of mirrors can make an area appear more expansive and less cluttered visually. And in terms of placement, your mirrors should be hung opposite windows at the other side of the room – to maximise the amount of natural light reflected and give balance to the room as a whole.
This tip works almost anywhere in the home and can provide a great solution for awkwardly-shaped spaces.
Make Use of High Ceilings
The size of a room isn’t governed by the amount of floor space – the vertical dimension in a room can offer the perfect way to make your small living room appear larger and more visually appealing. Filling a room with heightened aspects will draw the eye upward as well as make use of what would typically be empty space.
Try making the most of your vertical space by introducing floor-to-ceiling drapes, shelves and artwork for a multi-layered look that brings texture to your living room.
Texture Up with Textiles
When it comes to decorating a small living room, we love the use of textiles to bring a boho chic feel to the space. Transform a cramped living room by adding patterned throws, rugs and cushions for a more inviting appearance. Plants and artwork provide a multi-textured look that’s as much a quiet getaway as it is a communal area guests will love.
Make a Space for Plants
If you’re looking for a super easy decorating tip then consider adding plant life. Blooming perennials and vibrant colours create a light and airy space – ideal for smaller living rooms that need a bit of a lift. As well as bringing different textures to a room, plants provide a fresh feel that’s difficult to replicate without the use of plant life.
Set Up with Small Scale Furniture
With many compact options of sofa and chair, it’s easy to select small scale furniture that will balance a room rather than overcrowd it. Think about choosing sofas with thinner arms and lower backs. If space is really tight then consider buying a loveseat or positioning four smaller chairs around a central coffee table.
Add Additional Function to your Living Room
The key to arranging your living room in a balanced and well-thought out way is to combine functional aspects with dual-purpose furniture. Items such as this G Plan Vintage Sofa Bed have thinner arms and an easy-to-use bed that pulls out and takes up minimal space. Storage coffee tables are also popular, while nests of tables allow you to add table space when needed.
Light Colours for Floors and Walls
Opting for brighter colours will make a room seem less dark and in turn, make it appear larger. Darker tones can provide a cosier look but will absorb light as opposed to reflecting it, whereas light furniture will offer an airier appearance overall. Consider adding a rug to the room for texture as well as colour.
Colour Code Shelves to Add Structure
Another tactic for approaching compact living rooms is to draw attention away from the size by adding structure and cohesion. Colour coding shelves and accessories will accent furniture and provide that much-needed structure, while colour groupings throughout the room will create a more streamlined effect.
Make sure you check out these various ways to decorate a bookcase if you’re stuck for ideas.
Opt for Glass
Glass furniture, as well as being a popular choice for modern homeowners, takes up less space visually. Its reflective surface can aid in bringing more natural light into a room, while its minimal appearance contrasts bulkier items and materials – ideal if you want to make the area more efficient.
So, there you have it! Hopefully we’ve been able to give you some inspiration for making the most of small living rooms. However, if you have any tips of your own then let our readers know on Facebook and Twitter.
