Small rooms generally come in two styles; either they are cozy and intimate, or they are cramped and claustrophobic. I think we all know which one we’d prefer! So, for the petite spaces in your home, how can you achieve the former and avoid the latter? Your interior painting choices are part of it, but there is more to the story.
Choosing Interior Paint Colors
The walls form the borders of your room in a literal, spatial sense, but they also do so in a subconscious, emotional fashion. The closer those walls feel, the more cramped the space will feel, so you want to choose paint colors that do not feel too crowded.
Generally, darker colors make the walls more prominent, and thus they feel closer. Very bright, bold colors often have the same effect. That’s why lighter paint colors and more muted shades are usually preferable in a small room. You can still add pops of bright, bold, or dark colors with some artwork, throw pillows, a rug, a lamp, or other accent items, but those colors will not overwhelm the room like they would if they were painted on the walls.
Another tip involves painting the ceiling. If you paint the ceiling the same color as the walls, it tends to draw less attention, making the ceiling feel farther away. Another way to achieve the same effect is to paint the ceiling the same color as the walls, but two shades lighter.
Maximize Your Light
Natural light is your biggest ally when it comes to making a small room feel comfortable. If you have good windows, don’t cover them with heavy curtains. Use sheer curtains, or at least choose a style of curtains that is quick and easy to pull back for maximum light entry.
Many decorators use mirrors to add visual interest and a feeling of greater light and spaciousness in small rooms. These can be simple or fancy, shabby-chic or elegant, depending on your desires for the room.
Clobber the Clutter
One of the main ways we can make a room feel cramped is by having too much stuff in it. Even if there is enough physical space, the presence of knickknacks and trinkets (or general messiness) can create a sense of visual chaos. Instead, go for a simple look, with a few well-chosen pieces of furniture and decoration. That way, your eyes and your spirit will find the room more restful.
Take It from a Local Painting Company
At Sundeleaf Painting, we have been serving the Portland metropolitan area since 1930, so we’ve pretty much seen it all. With generations of experience under our belts, we can help you craft the perfect interior space. Not only can we advise you regarding color choices and their effects in small rooms, but we can also apply those paint colors to your walls using premium products and traditional attention to detail. When mediocrity isn’t an option, trust Sundeleaf Painting!
