Lighting is essential for making any small space seem bigger than it actually is. You can brighten up your cosy nooks, overshadowed loft spaces or dark alcoves with creative lighting tactics. Here are our best tips on how to use lighting to make a small room feel bigger…
Take advantage of any natural light
Just like any small space, you will probably find yourself working with limited natural light. Before you turn to artificial lighting, you must think about how you can optimise the natural light that is available. Natural light will make any small room feel more spacious and less confined. To help light bounce around the room, try placing mirrors directly across from windows.
Spread the light around
Of course, natural light is only available at certain times throughout the day. During winter, daylight hours will be even shorter. This is why you must think about how to replace your source of natural light in the evening. We highly recommend planning out multiple light sources to help open up the space. You should also consider lighting you can switch on as the day draws dim, from a single lamp for when the sun begins to set, to task lighting for when it’s too dark to focus.
Choose clear light fittings
The light fittings you choose will also affect how the size of the room looks. If you want your room to look bigger, steer clear of large opaque light fittings and dark colour shades. These will take up too much space and have the opposite effect you are looking for. Instead, opt for light or clear materials such as glass and acrylic. These will try the eye into thinking there is more space.
Utilise a low-profile wall and overhead fixtures
In rooms that are more confined, especially if there is a low ceiling, make sure that any lamp choices are slim. This will allow them to illuminate the space without being intrusive. Recessed lamps or downlights, track lighting, LED panels, sconces and light strips are all perfect solutions for this as they can usually offer a high level of light without invading the space.
Use long pendants to emphasise the height of a room
Vertical space is something you should really take advantage of if you want to make your small room feel bigger. Long pendant lighting is a great way to make the most from your small space with high ceilings. It will draw the eye up and down, emphasising on the height and drawing attention away from the small floor space.
Pick the right colour lampshades
The majority of colour schemes that are designed to add space are usually based on light colours. From walls to furniture, whites, light greys and pastels are often used to expand the space. We highly recommend adding matching light by choosing neutral lampshades for your floor and table lamps (if you don’t choose clear as we mentioned earlier).
Illuminate objects
If you want to decorate your space with artwork, plants, or ornaments, you can still make the room feel bigger without them crowding up the space. Adding lighting that will highlight these elements will give the illusion of fading walls, allowing the room to feel bigger.
Light your small spaces with ABM Electrical
There are many ways in which you can make your small room feel bigger using the correct lighting solutions. All it takes is some creativity and a little bit of planning! If you’re not sure where to begin, let ABM Electrical help you find the perfect products. Get in touch to find out more.
