How to MAKE A ROOM LOOK BIGGER

When floor space is limited, these design tips can visually expand your home

- Trudie McConnochie

You might not be able to move the walls of a small room, but with a few design tricks you can create the illusion of a larger area. Try these tips from interior designer Kelly Donougher of 13 Interiors.

FOCUS ON BALANCE

Make sure you pick the right balance of furniture to complement the space, says Kelly. “If you’ve got an oversized couch in the room or rug, that will make the room look out of proportion, which can definitely work against you.”

COLOUR WELL

Choosing a lighter colour palette for the room helps set the tone, explains Kelly. “Dark colours can add to the effect of making things look closed in – particularly if you don’t get a lot of natural light,” she adds. It’s also best to stick to one colour for walls, for example, a nice, cool white tone. “[It] creates consistency, so you don’t have too many focal points overwhelming the space and making it feel cluttered and smaller,” advises Kelly.

WORK WITH WINDOWS