How to create the illusion of space in your home

Whether you're living in a tiny studio apartment, or in a house filled with people and things, there are a few simple tricks to create the illusion of more space. The key is to fool the eye into thinking your living space is larger than it actually is.

Choose light colours: decorating a room in white or other light colours will make it seem larger than it is. Light colours will give a bright and airy feel and can make walls appear to recede. For this reason, don't use contrasting colour on the floor, as the eye follows the floor up the wall to the ceiling. Keeping the three areas a similar colour will open up the space. Steer clear of dark colours as these can create the feeling of the room closing in on you.

Decorate with monochromatic colour: lots of different colours can make a room appear busy, and busy rooms seem small. Monochromatic colour schemes allow the eye to move around the room without interruption.

Hang mirrors: mirrors will reflect light and make the room feel more open. Make sure the mirror is opposite something you want to see more of, such as a source of light or a window.

Choose the right furniture: a large couch in a small space can overpower a room, so make sure you choose appropriately sized furniture. Avoid heavy, solid furniture and choose pieces with raised legs as these take up less visual space and allow light to filter underneath. Glass topped tables are another good investment as the eye keeps moving beyond it. Multi-purpose furniture is another good space-saver. For example, an ottoman can be a foot rest and a coffee table.

Let there be light: avoid bright lights and stick to soft lighting which will create less shadow in the room. You can add a lamp where extra light is needed. If possible, leave windows uncovered and allow natural light to enter the room. 

Now you know how to create the illusion of space, head to Wrapped Wonders for more decorating inspiration. Wrapped Wonders is a store that embraces the unusual, stylish and funky, so you're sure to find something unique and original.