Making small spaces look bigger

Maximise your small space with colour, lighting and mirrors to create a visually large, more inviting home. 

In Singapore, where HDB flats and compact condo units are the norm, maximising space is both an art and a necessity. Fortunately, clever design techniques can create the illusion of a larger home without breaking the bank. By playing with colour schemes, lighting, and mirrors, you can transform even the smallest apartment into an airy and inviting haven. Here's how to do it. 

COLOUR SCHEMES:
Light and bright wins the game

The colours you choose for your walls, furniture, and decor play a pivotal role in defining the perception of space.

1) Opt for light tones: Soft, neutral colours like whites, creams, and light greys can make a room feel open and expansive. They reflect light, creating a sense of continuity that tricks the eye into perceiving a larger space.

2) Use a monochromatic palette: Sticking to one colour family reduces visual clutter and lends an uninterrupted flow to your interiors. For instance, pairing light blue walls with furnishings in varying shades of blue can enhance the spacious vibe.

3) Add a Pop of Colour: While light tones dominate, strategic accents in brighter hues can draw the eye to specific areas, creating depth and interest. Think pastel cushions, a bold piece of art, or vibrant indoor plants. 

MIRRORS:
Here’s how to position mirros to visually expand a room:

1) Place mirrors opposite windows: This maximises natural light by reflecting it throughout the room, making it appear larger and more vibrant. A floor-to-ceiling mirror on a blank wall can double this effect.


2) Create a focal wall: Cluster smaller mirrors of various shapes and sizes to form a statement wall. This not only adds personality but also plays with reflections to create depth.


3) Consider mirrored furniture: Mirrored cabinets or tables are functional and stylish additions that help bounce light and visually declutter the room. 

LIGHTING
Good lighting doesn’t just illuminate a room—it can dramatically alter its size and mood. Here’s how to use lighting to your advantage:

1) Embrace natural light: Maximise natural light by avoiding heavy curtains or bulky blinds. Sheer drapes or roller shades are excellent alternatives that let the light in while maintaining privacy.

2 Layer your lighting: Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting to eliminate dark corners and create an inviting atmosphere. For instance, install recessed ceiling lights for overall brightness, pendant lights over dining areas, and LED strips under cabinets to emphasise space.

3) Use reflective fixtures: Light fixtures with metallic or glass finishes amplify the glow in a room, bouncing light around and enhancing the illusion of a larger space.

PRO TIPS
Homes with multi-functional furniture:  

Invest in pieces that serve dual purposes, like storage ottomans or foldable dining tables, to reduce clutter and maintain an open layout.

Vertical storage:
Maximise wall space with shelves and cabinets that draw the eye upward, emphasising the room’s height rather than its width.

Keep It minimal:
Adopting a minimalist approach prevents a space from feeling cramped. Opt for fewer, higher-quality items to avoid overcrowding.

The art of illusion lies in clever design. By understanding how colour, lighting, and mirrors work together, you can craft a small space that feels luxurious and inviting. Whether you’re a first-time HDB homeowner or a seasoned condo dweller, these tips will help you make the most of your compact home in the city.