No Hacking: 5 Tricks to Make a Small Home Look Bigger

Lack the space you need at home? For many, going open-concept by hacking away pesky walls is one classic way of expanding a cramped space.

But of course, this option isn't for everyone. Have a limited renovation budget that can't accommodate extensive hacking works? Or, what if you live in a rented space that doesn't allow any structural changes? Well, simply follow these five hacks to visually magnify the amount of space in your home – zero hacking works required.

1. Mirror magic

Interior Designer: Amorphous Design

Even though it has been said a thousand times, the mirror rule still hangs true! Mirrors and other reflective surfaces can visually create more space. Thus, if you want to make a room look bigger, this is one must-have accessory to get.

Interior Designer: RK Interior Studio

Now, note that the size of the mirror doesn’t matter as much as its placement. Be sure to hang your mirror in a space that can reflect natural light, or position it near open entryways so that it can create an illusion of extra room.

Interior Designer: Fineline Design (Singapore)

Do also consider wall mirrors that run the length and height of an entire wall, to “deceptively” double the space.

2. Let there be light

Interior Designer: Y&L Concept Studio

Don’t forget to remove any obstructions that block natural light streams from entering the home. This includes large hulking furniture placed against windows or other areas that minimise the 'widening' effect natural light brings to a space.

Interior Designer: Pocket Square

Do also consider minimal or bare window treatments (e.g. heat and privacy tinting only) and opt for light, sheer curtains instead of heavy drapes.

3. Bright walls and floors

Interior Designer: UP Creations

Promote continuous spaciousness by opting for light, glossy floors paired with bright walls. Lighter floors tend to give an overall impression of a larger floor plan while white or bright, neutral walls effortlessly makes any room feel bigger.

Interior Designer: Anwill Design Sdn Bhd

If you are worried about the décor appearing a tad plain due to a lack of contrast or colour, just add a few statement pieces like a colourful painting or a rich-coloured rug.

Interior Designer: Spazio Design

Do also consider including a couple of darker furniture pieces, like a deep walnut, dark oak or African rosewood (Wenge finish) sideboard or coffee table for greater contrast with decor.

4. Say no to knick-knacks

Interior Designer: Movent Signature Design

Crowding your home with little knick-knacks and trinkets can easily make a small room appear even tinier, because it swallows whatever little negative space there is left.

Opt for one or two larger decorative pieces like a single vase or photo frame to add personality without overwhelming the rest of the space.

Interior Designer: Pocket Square

You’ll also want to rethink open shelving that expose baubles and ornaments, etc. as these can also lend to a busy, disorganised look that unnecessarily takes up more space. Instead, closed up cabinetry might be a better match, for a seamless minimal finish.

5. Clear furniture pieces

Source: Pinterest

Acrylic or glass, see-through furniture is a fantastic space enhancer for smaller homes and thankfully, is still on trend! Transparent designer chairs (like Ghost chairs), tables and table legs, storage furniture and shelving display a cool futuristic look that also happens to make the home look bigger.

Source: Pinterest

Clear furniture allows light to pass through and will not (visually) stand in the way or create obstructions that reduce roominess. What’s more, these useful items will add an avant-garde, aesthetic quality to any space it's placed in.

Renovating a small home?

An experienced interior designer can help you design a functional abode that makes the most of your limited space and visually maximises it. Request for a free quote here, and we can recommend you up to 5 interior firms, based on your budget, style and needs. All recommendations made by Qanvast will be eligible for the Qanvast Guarantee, which safeguards up to RM50,000 of your renovation deposits. Find out more here.

Meet interior designers. Get quotes. Based on your requirements, we will recommend you up to 5 firms with the Qanvast Guarantee. Get Free Quotes