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How to: Make your tiny space feel bigger than it actually is
Does your place still feel cramped even after a major decluttering?
To help you stretch your legs this 2021, GMA News Online asked some architecture and interior design experts for tips on how you can turn your tiny living space into a roomy, comfortable and aesthetically-pleasing place to live in.
1. Choose light colors
When it comes to making your room look bigger, white, cream, and pastel colors are your new best friends.
Receding colors — those that are high in value (lighter), lower in saturation and cooler in hue — are perceived to raise ceiling height, explained Katherine Anne G. Correa, the chairperson of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (CSB) Interior Design program.
"So we want to use white paint for the ceilings. If we use white walls as well, and use bright lights, it will produce an illusion that the space is big," Correa continued.
"(As a) Bonus, we can add colors to the space through the accessories that we will use, like pillows, art works, plants for the plantitas/titos."
2. Identify function of space
Do you really need one more couch, or should you keep the space clear for yoga?
A bedroom or condominium typically consists of only a few square meters, so it’s best to make sure each and every square inch are used wisely. According to Correa, identifying the function of the given space is a great way to start.
“What do you intend to do in that small space during daytime and during night time? Can we compartmentalize those specific functions within the space? Or make it a flexible space that we can convert at any time?” the expert said.
3. Full-height cabinets
When it comes to small living spaces, vertical storage is the key.
The taller the shelf, the more stuff you can organize and get out of the way. In fact, when designed right, an entire kitchen can fit inside a cabinet.
“This is a great way to declutter and organize the space as well as functioning as a room itself,” Architect Harvey Vasquez, the chairperson of the CSB Architecture program, said.
4. Mirrors
A mirror isn’t just a trendy accent piece — it’s actually a secret weapon to doubling your space.
Both deceiving and pleasing to the eye, placing a large mirror against a wall can create the illusion that there’s more space in your small room.
Not only does your place look bigger, you now also have a fabulous place to take your daily #OOTD.
5. Mobile/Multipurpose furniture
There are plenty of space-saving furniture pieces that have double, and even triple functions.
For example, a murphy bed can easily be folded away after a good night's sleep, while a bunk bed can double as a sleeping area at the top and a desk/work at the bottom.
"Built in pieces are also a good idea as you can maximize the small space to its full potential," Architect Vasquez explained.
There are also movable chairs and tables with hidden storage compartments, as well as small shelves and cabinets you can wedge beneath your staircase.
If you need help finding trendy yet functional pieces of furniture for your dream home, try joining helpful communities for house and design enthusiasts like Home Buddies on Facebook or Nobi Home on Instagram. — LA, GMA News
