Tricks That Make a Small Living Room Feel Bigger

No matter how small a space is, there are designer strategies to make it feel much bigger. It's just smart styling and layout problem-solving. With these examples, you'll love the space so much that you'll never want to leave it.

Pick a Dark Paint Color

Dark, glossy walls create a sophisticated backdrop for simple, clean-lined pieces and even colorful, bold items. Use the small space to your advantage and make it feel like a jewel box. Painting your ceilings the same color can enhance the sense of intimacy even further.

Hang a Chair

Swing chairs are super fun and seem to be having a design moment right now. More importantly, they can be a lifesaver in a small living room or family room. You can add seating without taking up a ton of floor space like you would with a traditional armchair.

Install Smart Lighting

Choose lighting that can be attached to the walls or hung from above to save room on floor space. Swing-arm sconces also free up space on the floor and bring dimension to the walls, an ideal situation for small living rooms.

Make It Multi-Purpose

When space is lacking, the only option is to get creative and make things multi-purpose. For example, if you don't have room for a separate living room, family room, and home office, combine each concept into one space.

Display Artwork Strategically

Bring your artwork up to trick the eye and expand or accentuate the height of the room. A gallery wall might seem too busy for a small space, but it can actually make it feel larger if it extends to the ceiling. 

Use One Part of a Sectional

Fewer but better pieces are the winning formula in a small living room. So ditch the classics and opt for smaller alternatives, like a daybed or one piece of a sectional and a small side table instead of a coffee table.

Separate Zones With Area Rugs

Area rugs can separate the different zones in studio apartments. This's a small space strategy that always delivers. You can stop your rug from curling and make it flat with X-Protector rug grippers.