Don’t Make These 7 Mistakes When Decorating a Small Room
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Are you struggling with decorating a small room? Styling a petite space can be a challenge, but it’s also an opportunity to get creative and maximize every inch of your home. Whether you’re dealing with a cozy apartment, a compact bedroom, or a tiny office, avoiding common mistakes can make a big difference in how your space looks and feels. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and explore the dos and don’ts of decorating small rooms!
As a DIYer and professional home stylist for 15 years now, I’ve always loved tackling small spaces. I employed a lot of the tricks I’m talking about in today’s post while renovating our 467 square foot tiny lake cabin, and I’ve also used these for styling apartments, RVs, and small bedrooms. Let’s chat about common small room decorating mistakes & how to fix them!
Ignoring Scale and Proportion
One of the most common mistakes when decorating a small room is ignoring scale and proportion. Choosing furniture that’s too large for the space can make it feel cramped and cluttered. Instead, opt for pieces that are appropriately scaled to the room. Look for multifunctional furniture like ottomans with storage or foldable tables that can be tucked away when not in use.
Just like with furniture, it’s crucial to consider scale when choosing artwork and decor for a small room. Avoid giant pieces that overpower the space and opt for smaller-scale art and decor instead. Gallery walls can be a great way to display a collection of smaller pieces without overwhelming the room. Mix and match different sizes and shapes to create visual interest without cluttering the walls.
Overlooking Vertical Space
Don’t forget about the vertical space in your room! Utilizing wall space for storage, shelving, or hanging decor can free up valuable floor space and make the room feel more open. Consider installing floating shelves or wall-mounted cabinets to keep clutter off surfaces and create a sense of airiness.
Ignoring Natural Light
Natural light is a small space’s best friend. When decorating a small room, avoid the mistake of blocking windows with heavy curtains or bulky furniture. Instead, choose sheer curtains or blinds that allow light to filter through while still providing privacy. Mirrors are also a great way to bounce light around the room and make it feel larger and brighter.
Cluttering the Space
In a small room, clutter can quickly overwhelm the space and make it feel claustrophobic. Avoid the temptation to overcrowd surfaces with knick-knacks and trinkets. Instead, opt for a few carefully curated pieces that add personality without overwhelming the room. Invest in storage solutions like baskets, bins, and trays to keep clutter at bay.
Ignoring Color and Texture
Color and texture can have a significant impact on how spacious a room feels. Avoid dark, heavy colors that can make the space feel smaller and opt for lighter, brighter hues instead. Consider using a monochromatic color scheme to create a cohesive look that visually expands the room. Don’t forget to incorporate texture through textiles, rugs, and accessories to add depth and interest to the space.
Neglecting Functionality
When decorating a small room, it’s essential to prioritize functionality. Don’t sacrifice comfort and usability for the sake of aesthetics. Choose furniture that serves multiple purposes, like a sleeper sofa for guests or a desk with built-in storage. Consider the flow of the room and ensure that there’s enough space to move around comfortably without feeling cramped.
Forgetting to Personalize
Finally, don’t forget to infuse your personality into the space! While it’s essential to avoid clutter, it’s equally important to make the room feel like home. Display a small but meaningful selection of items like family photos, souvenirs from your travels, or handmade decor that reflects your personal style. Remember, a small room should be a reflection of you and your unique taste.
Decorating a small room doesn’t have to be daunting. By avoiding these common mistakes and following these tips, you can create a stylish and functional space that feels larger than life. Remember to prioritize scale and proportion, utilize vertical space, embrace natural light, and keep clutter at bay. Choose colors and textures wisely, prioritize functionality, and don’t forget to personalize the space to make it your own. With a little creativity and attention to detail, you can transform any small room into a cozy oasis that you’ll love to spend time in. I hope you find these tips helpful, and happy decorating!
