When you live in a big city like we do in New York, space is a luxury. But you don’t need floor-to-ceiling windows, central park views or a 5,000 square foot floor-plan for your home to feel generous and spacious. One of my favorite challenges with nearly all of my clients in NYC is working with them to maximize their space.
Here are a few of my favorite quick tricks to instantly make a small home feel bigger:
Less is More: Small living room or bedroom? No problem. When it comes to selecting furniture, believe it or not, bigger is better! When you group lots of small pieces and knick-knacks it makes the room feel small and cluttered. We suggest selecting fewer, large statement pieces (sofa, coffee table, dining table) to create the illusion of space. Place thoughtfully ensuring the natural flow of energy (or “chi”) is not obstructed. With an open plan and large blocks of color, the room will appear larger, calmer and more comfortable.
Bounce it Back: Reflective surfaces instantly create the illusion of space. Place mirrors on dark walls that don’t get much natural light. Hanging mirrors strategically like this allows you to bounce light from windows and create the impression of more space. But be careful, mirrors have unique Feng Shui properties and should be positioned carefully (see my previous Feng Shui blog “Mirror, Mirror on the Wall”).
Layer Your Light Sources: Light makes spaces feel larger and more accommodating. Use a few lamps to spread light evenly around a room instead of relying completely on one overhead light source. Multiple sources of light, in addition to sunlight during the day, really helps make a home feel expansive. Using light colors on the walls and floors in conjunction with sheer fabrics will enhance this further and make any room feel airy and bright.
Position Carefully: Pull furniture out from up against the wall to create the illusion of spaciousness. Even just a few inches in between the wall and larger pieces of furniture make a space look more open. Opt for oversize art and hang it up high. If you have tall ceilings, take your gallery wall right to the roof to elongate and extend our perception of the vertical space. Area rugs can be positioned to define spaces and a pull the room together along the horizontal axis.
Utilize Storage Solutions: Last but not least, utilize hidden storage or multi-functional furniture to eliminate clutter. Baskets are a homely way to store blankets, towels and toys. If everything has a home that’s tucked away in a designated spot, you will keep surfaces clear and enhance clean lines. But remember, negative energy can build up in cupboards and closets too, so be sure to review and reduce regularly.
Try these yourself - or better yet get in touch to set up your residential consultation today!
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Julie and her team have a passion for creating beautiful, engaging and functional spaces, focusing on both the physical as well as the emotional well being of your environment. Click on the links below for package details:
Whether it is directing the flow of chi through the arrangement of furnishings, design or colors; Julie and her team can help you to create the spaces that support your vision of a balanced life, rich in the areas that matter to you.
A well designed environment boosts employees' performance, promotes efficiency and creates a comforting space for incoming clients.
There is no second chance to make a good first impression. When the time comes to sell or rent your home, ease the transition and maximize return by helping your home look its very best.
Universal Design is the concept of creating a thoughtful space for all people, regardless of their age, size or ability. Universal Design is a perfect design solution to pursue because of the comprehensive features that endure throughout a life span.