
Interior design is your opportunity to leave your mark on your home, showing off your style and interests in a way that feels welcoming and exciting. We all have different interior tastes, but one thing most people agree on is that bigger, brighter spaces are always a plus.
However, the layout or structure of your home may not offer you a lot of breathing room. If that’s the case, there are still steps you can take to make your home feel bigger and brighter.
Whether you’ve recently moved into new homes in Gateshead or have been living in the same space for a while, here’s everything you need to know to bring light and space into your living area.
Embrace light colours
When creating the illusion of space, light colours should be your first port of call, as whites, creams, and pastels reflect light better than darker shades, creating an open and airy feel.
Paint your walls, ceiling, or even your furniture in light hues to expand the area. If you’re worries about the room feeling too sterile, add interest and softness with texture and accessories.
Make the most of natural light
Natural light is our most powerful weapon when it comes to brightening up our homes, so you need to make the most of it. Avoiding dark, heavy curtains or blinds everywhere but the bedroom can keep your rooms looking lighter for longer, especially if you opt for sheer, light-coloured drapes instead.
Simple steps like making sure your windows are clean can also make a big difference, ensuring maximum light penetration. For a more significant investment, consider a skylight.
Make magic with mirrors
By reflecting the room, mirrors give the illusion of even more space, while also amplifying light. Placing large mirrors opposite windows can make the natural light bounce around the room, with wonderous effect. In smaller spaces like bathrooms and hallways, a well-placed mirror can practically double the sense of space.
As well as being a practical addition, mirrors also add style. Choose mirrors with decorative frames to complement your design and bring a sense of your personal taste.
Simplify and declutter
Mess makes a space feel smaller, so something as simple as a good, thorough tidy can give your home more room to breathe. Clutter-free spaces always feel larger, so take the time to go through your possessions and only keep the items you truly need or love.
Smart storage solutions can keep your everyday items out of sight, such as built-in shelves, under-bed storage, and multi-functional furniture. These investments can help you maintain a tidy, spacious look, so try to adopt a ‘less is more’ mindset.
Make smart furniture choices
Your choice of furniture plays a significant role in how a room feels. Choose pieces which are proportionate with the space, rather than overlarge items that can make a room feel cramped. Ottomans with storage, extendable dining tables, and other multi-functional furniture can save space and provide extra functionality.
You should also opt for furniture items with exposed legs to give a sense of openness and make a room appear larger.
Use glass
Fixtures and furniture items made from glass, or semi-transparent materials like Lucite, can help to maintain a sense of openness. Glass coffee tables or dining tables take up less visual space than wooden ones, creating an open feel, while semi-transparent dining chairs or light fixtures can contribute to a brighter, more spacious environment.
By incorporating these small changes into your interior design, you can enjoy all the benefits of a lighter, brighter living space.