Big Decorating Tips For Little Living Rooms

If your living room is on the small side, you may feel your decorating options are limited. However, you shouldn't feel intimidated by the size of the room. You can design a living room that is grand in appearance when you choose colors and furnishings that will complement the size of the room.

Think light for walls and floors

Dark colors tend to make a room look smaller and should be avoided. Light colors have the opposite effect. Shades of beige, off-white, and cream are best for walls. Light oak is a great choice if you prefer laminate flooring. Look for natural tones of light gray or tan for tile flooring. Don't worry about using too many light tones. You can add a few bold accent pieces to give the room a splash of color while keeping things light and roomy.

Get creative with furniture

Steer clear of large, bulky furniture and loud prints. Solid-colored sofas and chairs with low backs are good choices. Avoid sectionals which take up considerable amounts of space and give you limited flexibility. If you need more seating space for when guests stop in to visit, a few sturdy ottomans will take up little space and provide additional seating.

Choose end stands and coffee tables without solid compartments like drawers, built-in storage space, or baskets. Open tables provide an airy feeling and appear less cluttered because of their simple design.

If you want to add a desk to your living room, choose a Parsons table over a traditional desk. It can double as an accent piece if you paint it a bold color. When selecting lamps, look for lamps in bright colors that have see-through glass bases. The goal is to add splashes of color throughout the room while keeping the overall tone bright and airy.

Take advantage of draperies and curtains

You may be tempted to avoid using drapes or curtains in a small room and opt just for blinds to add an open feel to the room. This is a common misconception. In fact, the opposite is true. Drapery treatments can work to your advantage.

One of the best ways to add height to a small room is to hang window draperies from the ceiling to the floor. This not only makes the windows look bigger, it gives an appearance of height to the entire room. Get creative with curtains and drapes. Pick a geometric design or vertical stripes to brighten up the light walls. For more drapery options, visit Sylvans & Phillips Drapes and Blinds.

Accent wisely

Less is definitely more when it comes to a small living room. Avoid cluttering up the walls with too much art. Hanging a large mirror above the sofa may be all you need. If you prefer photos or wall hangings, choose one or two you can't live without and eliminate the rest. A simple vase of flowers on a desk or tabletop provides an elegant but uncluttered look.

Pillows in colors you love will add the perfect finishing touch and a pop of color to the room. With light walls and furnishings you can accent boldly with your favorite colors without overpowering the room.

You can transform your tiny living room into a grand space when you choose colors, furnishings, and accent pieces that will complement the room. It may even become your favorite room for relaxing and entertaining your friends and family.