Whether you’re moving into your first one-bedroom apartment or outfitting your downtown bungalow, knowing how to design around your small living room will come in handy. Understanding proven design strategies will transform your small space into an area that feels cozy and comfortable. It’s all about tricking the eye into seeing more.

Use Mirrors

Using mirrors will make your small living room seem larger and less claustrophobic. Hanging a large mirror as a focal point is a great strategy. It will add light and a nice ambiance. You can put the mirror near a light source, like a lamp or even near a window.

Look Upward

If your living room has a high ceiling, you’re in luck. Drawing the eye upward will make up for the lack of floor space. Use high book shelves, artwork, and tall floor lamps to capitalize on the vertical real estate.

Use Neutral Colors

It’s a great idea to use neutral colors on walls, floors, ceilings and furniture fabric. A palette of off-whites or beiges will expand the space by appearing to push back the walls.  Soft hues reflect light and will add dimensions to your space. Add pops of color with throws or rugs, but stick to a neutral color for furniture and paint.

Lightweight Furniture Choices

Pick out pieces that have a lightweight appearance as opposed to heavier ones which will overwhelm a small space. For example, select pieces that have slender legs and sleek lines while avoiding those that are boxy. Glass coffee or end tables will take up less visual space than wooden ones because they are see through. Any furnishings that don’t obstruct views will make an area seem more open.

Small-Scale Furniture