How to make a room look bigger
Is your room feeling a bit too cosy for your taste? At Shackletons, we believe every room – big or small – should feel inviting and comfortable. We’ve gathered some simple tricks that can help make your room look and feel more spacious without requiring any major renovation. From picking the right paint colours to arranging furniture wisely, these tips make a world of difference.
Light and Bright Colours
One of the easiest steps to creating a more space is to use lighter shades on your walls and furniture. Soft tones can make surfaces reflect rather than absorb light, bringing a more open ambiance to even the smallest room. Creams, gentle greys, and off-whites are wonderful choices if you want something versatile that works in both classic and modern homes. At Shackletons, we often see how a simple shift in colour can make all the difference. Don’t be afraid to keep your accessories on the lighter side too—cushions, throws, and rugs in subtle tones can be very effective.
Reflective Surfaces and Mirrors
Mirrors have long been a tried-and-true approach for broadening the sense of space. By placing one opposite a window, you can reflect daylight to visually widen the room. Glass or metallic surfaces, like a sleek side table or glossy cabinet, can also catch the light for a brighter atmosphere. If you’re feeling creative, experiment with mirror shapes—circles, squares, or decorative frames—to add personality. A great example is the Gallery Direct Carved Louis Leaning Mirror Silver, this baroque framed mirror is finished in a beautiful silver leaf finish and will add the illusion of space to any room. Or the Gallery Direct Chafford Mirror Black, which has a black metal window pane style would look brilliant on a wall and really open up a room. At Shackletons, we’ve noticed that strategically placed reflective pieces can make the most of any available light, whether natural or artificial. It’s a cost-friendly strategy that can quickly make a difference in how roomy a place feels.
Smart Furniture Choices
When aiming for a bigger-looking room, furniture selection is key. Bulky and oversized pieces can crowd your space, so it’s wise to think carefully about size and style. Items with visible legs allow air and light to circulate underneath, making your floor space appear more open. Sofas and chairs with slimmer frames can be surprisingly comfortable while taking up less visual room. A great sofa choice is the Tetrad Bowmore Midi Sofa in Heather Harris Tweed Fabric, this has visible legs and is made of the iconic Harris Tweed fabric. At Shackletons, we believe that choosing the right pieces doesn’t mean skimping on comfort—it’s about finding that sweet spot between practical and compact.
Layout and Flow
Arranging your furniture properly can add a sense of openness to any room. Contrary to popular belief, pushing everything against the walls doesn’t always offer the best result. In some cases, leaving a few inches between the furniture and the walls creates a more inviting flow. Try to avoid blocking windows with tall cabinets or heavy curtains—you want light to move freely. If your layout feels too crowded, consider moving or swapping out items rather than just adding more. At Shackletons, we find that experimenting with different configurations can reveal new ways of enjoying your space with minimal effort.
Vertical Thinking
When people think about making a room look bigger, they often focus on floor space. However, maximising vertical space is just as important. Tall bookshelves or cabinetry that draws the eye upward can introduce the perception of higher ceilings, like the Foxington 180cm Bookcase in natural oak or the Laura Ashley Balmoral 2 Drawer Single Bookcase in honey. Meanwhile, wall-mounted shelving can free up precious floor area. Choosing curtains that hang slightly above the window frame can also give the illusion of extra height. At Shackletons, we’re fans of turning previously unused walls into functional and attractive storage solutions. This tactic not only helps you stay organised but also adds more character to your room.
The Role of Lighting
Good lighting is like the finishing touch that ties everything together. Dim corners often make a room feel smaller than it truly is. Think carefully about your lighting plan: an overhead fixture can work in tandem with smaller lamps around the room. Placement is important—spotlights or sconces can brighten darker areas, making the space feel bigger. You might even try a floor lamp in a corner that could use some illumination.
Flooring and Rugs
Surprisingly, your choice of flooring can play a big part in giving your room a spacious look. A single, continuous flooring style across connected rooms helps make the entire area flow together. If you love rugs, consider smaller ones that define a seating zone or reading nook, instead of using a single large rug that covers every inch of the floor, something like the Nourison Rugs Celestial Round Rug – 2.39m x 2.39m in Sunset. Light-coloured wooden floors or tiles can reflect light and offer a sense of cohesion. At Shackletons, we encourage homeowners to think about how each rug or flooring decision interacts with the rest of the décor for a balanced, roomier appearance.
Creating a bigger-looking room doesn’t require major construction projects or a huge budget. Simple changes—like lighter colours, mirrors, streamlined furniture, and thoughtful lighting—can truly change your experience of a space. Ready to put these ideas into action? Explore our collection of stylish solutions that can help your home feel fresh and welcoming.