Decorating a small living room can be challenging, but with the right design strategies, you can make even the tiniest space feel cozy, stylish, and spacious. From choosing the right color palette to selecting multipurpose furniture, these top 10 tips will help you transform your small living room into a beautiful and functional oasis.
1.
Limit the Color Palette
“The primary thing to remember when designing a small room is to ensure all tones stick to the same color palette—thus creating flow throughout the room,” says Gian Moore, former interior designer and partner at Mellowpine. “Focus on monochromatic and tonal hues to accentuate the scheme further.”
2.
Layer Your Lighting
“Layering the heights of your lighting is key,” says Moore. “Ensure you have a pendant light overhead with dimmable controls, along with plenty of lamplight and wall lights. Shades should direct light for tasks and create ambient pools of light to enhance the atmosphere.”
3.
Open Up Walls
Create a contemporary feel by opening up walls to allow natural light to enter. “A bright and fresh feeling is achieved when you open up the space,” says interior designer Kate Diaz of Swanky Den. Consider floor-to-ceiling windows, doors, or side panels to enhance this effect.
4.
Consider Mirrors
Adding mirrors can make a small living room feel lighter and more spacious. According to Diaz, placing mirrors facing each other on opposite walls can increase sightlines and create the impression of a larger space.
5.
Install Open Shelving
Opt for open concept shelving instead of closed-off or boxy options to create a light-flooded living space. Keep the shelves tidy and well-styled to maintain a clean and airy look.
6.
Opt for Neutral Walls
Diaz recommends painting the walls a single neutral shade. To add personality, introduce pops of color through select furniture pieces and accessories.
7.
Contrast Walls and Floors
While light colors on the walls can make a room appear larger, contrasting them with darker floors can add warmth and create a balanced, clean look.
8.
Be Strategic with Artwork
Hang artwork directly above the sofa rather than spreading it around the room to keep visual clutter to a minimum. This approach adds visual interest without overwhelming the space.
9.
Use Multipurpose Furniture
Maximize space by incorporating multipurpose furniture. Diaz suggests using bookshelves as window seats or opting for an upholstered ottoman that can serve as both a coffee table and extra seating.
10.
Hang Small Artwork
“You’ll want to keep any pictures or wall art small and only hang them if they are meaningful,” says Diaz. This will allow your walls to breathe, making the room look more expansive.
