Living Large in a Small Space

Amber RandhawaHomeowner and Homebuyer Tips, Interior Decorating

A trade-off urban dwellers have long been aware of is that living in town often means working with a smaller space than you would find in suburban homes. While many folks think it’s worth it to live in the center of the city and close to everything Atlanta has to offer, it takes some creativity to make the smaller quarters of an in-town bungalow, townhouse or condo work without feeling overfilled or cramped. We have some tips for making a smaller space feel bigger.


Ditch the Clutter

It’s a simple fact with any room – the less floor you can see, the more cramped and small a room will feel. So, one of the easiest things you can do to open up a room is to get rid of anything that is not necessary, and decrease the size of things that are. An overstuffed sectional couch will fill up a room more than a simple loveseat and armchair. Multiple tables and bookshelves filled with knicknacks will also make a room feel small. Declutter by parting ways with all but the most special curios – if you toss enough items to the side, you might be able to remove an entire table or bookcase from a room. Not only does decluttering open up your home, but research shows the amount of clutter in your home is directly related to stress levels—the more clutter found in your living space, the more stressed out you feel.

Don’t Overdo it When Decorating

 There’s nothing more exciting than decorating your new home and making it feel truly yours However, many people overdo it with the accessories when decorating a new space. More is not always better, especially when you do not have a large space to work with. In a smaller home, you’re wise to shy away from large pieces of furniture, but filling your space with too many small and medium size pieces will also make a space feel smaller and more crowded. It’s important to find the right balance when decorating a small home, and consulting with a professional designer is never a bad idea.

Play Some Tricks

If you know how to use them, you can actually create the illusion of more space using certain decor item. Mirrors are especially well-suited for this task, and can be used to create the illusion of more space in any room. A reflective surface gives off a light and airy vibe which can make a room look wider and taller. Using a neutral palette is another great tactic is to use when decorating a small space, as is painting only one wall in a room in a statement color while leaving the remaining walls white or neutral. You can also trick the eye by placing shelving and art work around a room to bring your guests’ eyes higher and create the appearance that your ceilings are taller than they actually are.


On the other hand, if you’ve decided that your space actually is too small for your family or lifestyle, maybe its time to upsize. We would love to help you find your new, larger, dream home!