How to Make a Room Look Bigger

Small rooms can feel claustrophobic, but if handled correctly they’ll feel bigger. This is critical when we’re selling your house.

1. Use light colors and clever contrasts.

It’s is all about optical illusion. No, we’re not lying; it’s just that light colors make a room look bigger and brighter. Also try painting your wall trim and moldings in a lighter color than your walls to make the walls appear farther back.

2. Lighting is key.

Natural light opens up a room’s interior, making it look larger. Don’t have much natural light? Creative use of lighting fixtures can make a big difference.

3. Cut the clutter.

Nothing makes a small space feel cramped more than having too much stuff. Keep your things neatly arranged and out of sight. And don’t cover your walls with a lot of pictures; if there’s too much going on, all clamoring for attention, it can make the room feel busy and crowded.

4. Well-placed mirrors can do wonders.

Mirrors can make your room look larger, giving the illusion of depth. Mirrors also reflect both natural and artificial light to make a room brighter during the day and night.

5. Maximize your furniture arrangement.

Place larger pieces of furniture against the walls to maximize open space. Scale your furniture to fit the size of the room (tall furniture can make the ceiling seem lower than it really is), and don’t block pathways (which makes a room look cramped). Oh yes…at least some of the furniture should be the same color as the walls.

Need some extra ideas on the smartest things you can do when selling your house? Call me at 858-442-3842, or visit me online at www.brianhabib.com.