Open floor plans, soaring ceilings, and expansive, arched doorways lend an airy, spacious feel to a house. While not every home boasts these features, there’s no need to settle. If your rooms feel cramped, consider these strategies to create the illusion of more space.

Light Paint Palette

While decor magazines and designers may suggest intricate color schemes and even ceiling patterns, in reality, painting the ceiling of a smaller room anything other than a light shade can diminish its perceived size. Opt for various shades of white to brighten the space and give the ceiling a loftier appearance.

Multisource Lighting

Dimly lit rooms can induce feelings of confinement. In addition to an overhead light, consider placing floor or table lamps at opposite corners of the room. This balanced lighting approach will make the entire area appear brighter, more inviting, and more spacious.

Minimal Window Dressings

Natural light breathes life into a room and imparts a sense of spaciousness. Remove heavy curtains or decorative fixtures from your windows to maximize the room’s exposure to natural light. If you must have curtains, choose a sheer fabric that will allow more daylight to pass through.

Simplified Wall Decor

While posters, artwork, photographs, and shelves offer opportunities for personal expression, an excess of wall clutter can make a space feel confined. Select a few tasteful items and hang them higher on the wall. This draws the eye upward, creating an added sense of height.

Sofa Spacing

Resist the urge to push all furniture against the walls in an attempt to maximize space. This can actually make the area feel cramped. Instead, try angling furniture away from the walls or pulling it slightly forward. Allowing some space between the furniture and the walls creates a more open and inviting atmosphere.

Mirror Magic

Although they can’t quite perform magic, mirrors come close by expanding a room’s visual footprint. By strategically placing a large mirror facing a window, you can create the illusion of additional space and amplify the natural light, effectively doubling its impact.

By incorporating these strategies, you can effectively create the illusion of a larger, more open space within your home. You might be pleasantly surprised to discover just how much roomier it feels.