How to Make an Under-2000sqft Home Look Twice its Size

Two thousand square feet is by no means 'small', if you compare it to some of the ridiculously tiny dwellings in Hong Kong, Japan or even parts of Europe. But they aren't spacious either, especially if you've got a family (and a lot of stuff) to consider.

And with more homes in Malaysia scaling down to sizes of 2000 sqft or less, any way to widen up that limited square footage is welcome! So make room for these 8 design tricks - as seen in these cleverly designed abodes - that help create a more 'spacious' look at home.

1. Stick to clean, simple finishes or carpentry shapes

Interior Designer: Y&L Concept Studio

This 1,500 sq. ft. condo looks much larger than it actually is thanks to a general theme of clean lines, colours and layout. Such an aesthetic rule tends to put on a more spacious appearance overall. When coupled with warm, even lighting, bright floors, light walls, and furniture with clearance space; the result is expansive, loftier décor!

Space-saving tip: Skip carpeting - leave your floors unadorned for an instantly sleek, expansive look!

2. Divide and conquer

Interior Designer: Cubebee Design Sdn Bhd

With clever décor tricks employed, you may not be able to guess the size of this home by looking at it! Although this sweet modern condo comes across as sprawling, it stands at only 1,000 sq. ft. The secret of its roomy appearance comes down to the layout (for the most part). The open layout of the main room is divided evenly to make space for a living area, a dining room and a lounge space. Also, by choosing sleeker furniture and décor pieces, the designers even managed to fit in a small piano!

Space-saving tip: Natural light is a natural space enhancer! Minimize window treatments and opt for sheer curtains to let in as much natural light as possible!

3. A black-and-white scheme helps

Interior Designer: RK Interior Studio

So while the accepted rule for ‘creating’ spaciousness is to go with a lighter theme, what happens if you are a fan of darker hues? Can your home still appear spacious? It certainly can as this cool 1,200 sq. ft. condo proves! Dusky tones, when combined with lighter hues, can create a contrast effect that defines a space more effectively. This too can bring about a space enhancing aesthetic. In this home, there’s plenty of contrast with lighter floors playing off darker furniture and accents that seem to cast a sense of visual roominess!

Space-saving tip: Say no to bulky pieces and instead opt for singular, slimmer designs to emphasize more space!

4. You can add some detailing - but don't go overboard.

Interior Designer: RK Interior Studio

This regal looking condo is another example of how a small space can appear deceptively larger with “sneaky” décor. What’s interesting about this home is that it does not employ the typical stylings of a modern home. Rather, it reflects a unique fusion of multiple décor styles. We see deeper hues reminiscent of urban modern décor, a cool and light wall which is quintessentially industrial, and artsy wall motifs that are quite eclectic. But most importantly - all of it is done with a subtle, minimal touch, so that it doesn't come off too 'busy' visually.

Space saving tip: Do think about colour continuity in décor. With similarly light floors, walls and ceilings, you may visually heighten and lengthen the area.

5. Use the same colour/texture palette throughout

Interior Designer: Nevermore Design

The key? Opting for monotones that are not monotonous. Sounds like an oxymoron, but what we mean is using similar textures or colours instead of sticking to one flat shade for dimension. Case in point? This cool, cosmopolitan apartment. The cool grey tones that continue from floor to wall to ceiling, furniture and even drapes, make for a conventional but effective way to “add” space. Likewise, furniture is kept minimal and slim, while built-ins are concealed for a consistent, seamless look.

Space-saving tip: Hire a carpenter to help you customise furniture pieces that can double as storage or which can make use of dead spaces so it doesn’t go to waste.

6. Get multipurpose storage built-ins

Interior Designer: Spazio Design

Scandinavian décor is one of the best design styles to employ when space is an issue. This 1,076 sq. ft. home has traces of Swedish minimalism spread throughout with multi-use storage pieces as well as innovative carpentry in clean, sleek designs.

Space-saving tip: Natural materials in warmer tones tend to blend with white walls. It also helps décor appear seamless and provides less visual obstruction that'll improve spaciousness.

7. Go open plan - but use furniture to define each space

Interior Designer: Matt Interior Design

Small spaces as much as larger spaces need defining, especially in open layouts. This modern condo has a large communal area that is cleverly compartmentalised to provide a dining and living room, as well as a breakfast bar. It utilises space impeccably well with cabinetry and other furniture that also function as dividers to provide structure to the space. The mix of light, cool tones and deeper hued natural materials make for a homely vibe that is still seriously stylish!

Space-saving tip: Shiny, clean floors tend to reflect more light and space. Thus, do keep your floors looking clear and glossy to enhance visual spaciousness.

8. Fill every nook and cranny with closed storage cabinets

Interior Designer: X Two Concept

If your home is smallish, it’s a good idea to maximise the space you do have with multi-use, concealed, and built-in storage wherever possible. This Scandinavian-inspired home is the perfect example of storage brilliance with most nooks and crannies being taken advantage of. The lovely white and warm colour theme further magnifies the space with airy #feels!

Space-saving tip: Use open-shelving to display art pieces and also as storage for smaller knick-knacks!

Looking for more small-space ideas for your home?

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