Small Space Decorating Ideas

Take advantage of vertical space

If your room is blessed with lofty ceilings, you need to take full advantage of all that extra wall space. Placing curtain poles high above a window will help to accentuate the height of a room, making it feel more spacious.

Another small room idea if you have high ceilings is to install a larger light fitting. As well as adding more light to the room, a statement ceiling light will create a grand atmosphere – making the room appear much bigger than it is.

Similarly, hanging artwork will draw attention to the height of your ceilings, taking the focus away from a limited floorspace.

If you’re don’t have lots of vertical height to play with, there are some creative ways to make the ceiling feel higher than it is. Where possible, don’t position artwork or mirrors higher than two-thirds of the way up a wall. This will help to emphasise the space above them. You can also bring your ceiling paint colour a few inches down the walls, creating a border that will have a wall-lengthening effect.

Top tip: Take a look at these small bathroom makeover ideas for more small space interior design tips.

Be clever with storage space

When thinking about small room ideas, smart storage solutions should be one of your first ports of call.

Ask yourself: are there any opportunities to build in shelves and storage units? You can really get creative here. For example, if you have a fireplace, you could incorporate shelving to the side of the chimney breast.

Once you have decided on whether you can implement built-in shelving, you should think about pieces with dual functionality. Ottomans, for example, can be used for storage and sitting on.

To make your room feel bigger, you need to avoid clutter – so think about where you can add storage to places that won’t be used. If you can put storage boxes and baskets under your sofa, this will help keep your room clean and tidy, maximising space that otherwise wouldn’t be used.

Top tip: Take a look at these under bed storage ideas to give a new lease of life to a small bedroom.

Save space with a sliding door

When you think about space-saving ideas, it’s normal to think of storage space – but hinged doors can also cause problems. The wider a hinged door is, the more space you’ll need to open and close it.

Bi-fold or sliding doors, on the other hand, only need to account for the thickness of the door – making it a convenient way of saving a lot of floor space.

Top tip: If you’re looking for storage ideas for small spaces, the area around a door alcove also doubles as a great spot for bespoke shelving.

Smart storage for a small bedroom

From finding space for clothes to keeping children’s toys organised, creating a stylish space to unwind in is often the lowest priority when it comes to kitting out a small bedroom. Luckily, there are several things you can do to maximise storage space while ensuring that your bedroom is still a relaxing and attractive room to spend time in.

Opt for a bedside table with extra storage. A stylish place to put a lamp and your morning cuppa, a bedside table with drawers or a cupboard will also double as a place to keep trinkets and toys. This is an easy way to reduce clutter and keep surfaces clear. As mentioned above, under bed storage is also an excellent solution.

To create more wardrobe storage, consider vacuum packing your summer wardrobe over the cooler months (and vice versa) and storing it in boxes under the bed. Alternatively, fitted bedroom furniture is a great way to maximise storage space, as you can create a bespoke wardrobe that’s designed to fit your needs. With everything neatly stored away in your fitted wardrobe, the rest of your bedroom can become a calming, clutter-free space.

Keep it cosy

Rather than trying to make your small room feel much bigger, why not turn it into a cosy snug where you can escape to and relax?

Instead of trying to maximise your space, work with what you have to create a haven of plush rugs, cushions, comfy chairs and blankets. Indulgent textures are key here: don’t be afraid to mix and match velvet sofas with sumptuous knitted throws.

You could also go against the rule book and look at using darker paint colours for a more luxurious feel. This works particularly well in a small living room, but can also add a grown-up and welcoming feel to a hallway. Dark blues, rich reds and greens will add drama and will transform a small living room into an elegant space for entertaining or watching a film with loved ones. Alternatively, opt for darker toned wallpapers with a whimsical, botanical print. All you need to complete your cosy retreat is the glow of a log burner (if your room doesn’t have a fireplace, an electric fireplace is a low-maintenanceeasy alternative.

Top tip: For more ideas, take a look at our guide on how to make your home cosy.

If you’re in search of some more decorating inspiration beyond small room ideas, take a look at our Ideas and Advice hub.