7 Designer Insider Tips That Make Any Room Look Bigger

As an interior architect, one of the most common challenges I encounter is designing small spaces that feel open, functional, and comfortable. Whether you live in a compact apartment or want to make your living room feel more spacious, there are clever strategies that can dramatically change how a room feels. In this article, I’ll share 7 insider tips that make any room look bigger—straight from the professional toolkit.

1. Embrace Light Colors and Reflective Surfaces

Light, neutral colors on walls, floors, and ceilings create an open and airy feel. Whites, soft grays, and pastels reflect natural light, making your space feel larger. Adding reflective surfaces like mirrors, glass tables, or metallic finishes can further amplify the sense of openness.

Pro Tip: Place a large mirror opposite a window to double the amount of natural light in the room.

2. Keep Furniture Proportions in Mind

Oversized furniture can overwhelm a small space. Opt for furniture that fits the scale of your room and leaves open pathways. Consider multi-functional pieces, like a coffee table with storage or a bench that doubles as seating and a table, to maximise utility without crowding the space.

3. Create Vertical Interest

Drawing the eye upward can make your room feel taller. Use vertical shelving, tall artwork, or floor-to-ceiling curtains to emphasise height. Vertical stripes on wallpaper or paint can also create the illusion of higher ceilings.

4. Utilise Smart Storage Solutions

Clutter makes a room feel smaller instantly. Built-in cabinets, under-bed storage, or wall-mounted shelves help maintain a clean, streamlined look. By keeping surfaces clear and using clever storage, every square foot is optimised.

5. Layer Lighting

Multiple layers of light—ambient, task, and accent—enhance the perception of space. Well-lit rooms appear more open, while dim or uneven lighting can make even a large room feel cramped. Consider wall sconces, floor lamps, and recessed lighting to brighten corners and highlight vertical space.

6. Keep the Flow Open

Avoid placing furniture in ways that block natural walking paths. Open layouts or flexible furniture arrangements make rooms feel less confined. Use rugs to define areas without creating visual barriers. The key is continuity—let the eye travel freely through the space.

7. Choose Minimalist, Transparent, or Leggy Furniture

Furniture with legs or transparent materials like acrylic or glass allows more light to flow under and around the pieces. This transparency reduces visual weight, giving the impression of more floor space. Minimalist designs with simple lines also prevent the room from feeling crowded.

Designing a room to feel larger is a mix of strategy, proportion, and creativity. By following these 7 tips—from embracing light colours to selecting smart furniture—you can transform any space into a bright, open, and inviting environment.

Ready to maximise your home’s potential? At Lotti Gostic Studio, we specialise in functional and aesthetically pleasing interiors tailored to your lifestyle. Book a consultation today to see how we can make your rooms feel more spacious and harmonious.