Colour
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Light and Bright
When redecorating, consider using cooler shades such as whites, pale blues or greys, and soft lavenders for better light reflection. This will instantly make a small room feel more open and airier.
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Monochrome
Have you considered painting the whole room the same colour? This includes the ceiling and all surrounding woodwork. Trust us, it works, no matter what colour options you use for your Rye or Hastings home.
Décor
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Less is More
Often said and always meant. Don’t clutter up walls and surfaces; choose statement pieces or a tastefully design gallery wall that keeps your photos and memories in one dedicated area.
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Consider the Scale
Keep your artwork, ornaments, plants, and other interior decorating elements proportionate to their surroundings rather than adding massive pieces that will instantly overpower a room, leaving it dark and cramped.
Furniture
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Go Small
As with the rest of your décor, choose functional furniture while keeping it compact. Nesting tables, for example, offer practicality yet don’t take up too much space.
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Colour
The colour of your furniture is as important as painting and decorating! Keep to minimalist patterns and opt for seating arrangements with lighter fabrics rather than dark, uninviting hues.
Lighting and Mirrors
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Layer It
Ceiling lights cast shadows in corners and too much glare in the centre of any room. Change these to strategically placed floor lamps and task lighting to create a warm and more inviting atmosphere.
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Strategic Reflections
Mirrors are perfect for smaller spaces as they bounce light around, increasing illumination and creating a sense of space. Tip: Hang one directly opposite a window to double your view.
Stripes
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Vertical Benefits
Whilst not for everyone, vertical stripes can create a dramatic illusion of height and spaciousness. This design trick is perfect for homes in Rye with lower ceilings.
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Horizontal Horror
Avoid this design technique at all costs! If you introduce horizontal patterns into your smaller Hastings home, you run the risk of leaving the area looking cramped and dull.
Other tips for creating a feel of spaciousness and brightness in smaller properties include hidden storage compartments in furniture so surfaces remain clutter-free. Rather than hanging heavy curtains, why not consider blackout blinds that still offer the same benefits but take up no space in a room? However, If you want to have curtains framing the windows, we suggest brighter fabrics that still allow light penetration. Finally, our painting and decorating team at Palace Building Services advise against installing a floor or carpet in darker colours or with too many patterns, as they will naturally make a room appear smaller.
