I have a small apartment in Boston and am not sure of the rules. Are you supposed to get smaller furniture for a small room, and how do I make my small space look bigger?
First of all, forget about “the rules". While there are some definite decorating tricks that will create the illusion of a roomier space, you must first determine what you like and what your needs are, and then apply “the rules ” – or reject them – accordingly. The key to enjoying a small space is to avoid overcrowding it. By building off your essential pieces for everyday living, you can create a look that is spatially efficient as well as stylish.
Choosing a style you like and feel comfortable in, rather than concentrating merely on the scale of your furniture will create a look that you’ll be happy with, not only for right now but also for a longer term. Choose pieces that have versatility in function; for instance, find cocktail tables with storage, use ottomans that double as extra seating, or select accent chairs that swivel so they have more than one orientation in the room.
Accentuate your vertical space. You might consider painting the walls in light, neutral tones, contrasting the upper molding, and painting the ceiling white. Adding tall mirrors, artwork, or bookshelves will draw the eye up over the entire space, creating a grander feel.
Finally, get rid of all non-essential pieces and keep organized! Clutter can crowd a space, especially a small one, so edit yourself and keep only what you really use. Your space will not only be more efficient, but also more aesthetically sound and relaxing.
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