Small rooms aren’t always the problem—sometimes it’s how the space is used. Most homes have areas that feel tighter than they need to, whether it’s a living room packed with furniture or a bedroom that collects more than it should. The good news is that you can make a room feel more open without knocking down walls or starting a major project.
One of the easiest wins is clearing out what you no longer need. It’s not about living a minimalist lifestyle—it’s just about giving the things you use every day some breathing room. When surfaces are clear and floors aren’t crowded, you naturally see more of the space you already have.
Furniture placement makes a bigger difference than most people expect. If pieces are pushed against every wall, the room can feel flat and boxed in. Sometimes pulling a sofa forward a few inches or choosing a slimmer side table changes the flow enough that the whole room feels lighter. When possible, choose furniture that does more than one job—something with storage, or a piece that’s visually lighter, like an open-leg chair instead of a bulky recliner.
Lighting also helps more than people realize. A single overhead light tends to create shadows in the corners, which makes a room feel closed off. Adding a floor lamp or small table lamp spreads the light around and softens those dark spots. Natural light does the same, so keeping window coverings simple can make a room feel instantly bigger.
Colour plays a role too, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Light, neutral tones usually create the most open feel, but consistency matters more than a specific shade. When the eye can move around the room without stopping at a harsh contrast, the space feels calmer and more connected.
Finally, use height when you can. Shelving that goes up rather than out, curtains hung a little higher, or art placed to draw the eye upward—all of it helps lift the space visually.
These small adjustments don’t require major spending. They’re simple shifts that make the most of what’s already there, and they can make a meaningful difference in how a room feels day to day. If you’re preparing to sell, these changes also help buyers see the full potential of your home the moment they walk in.
