When it comes to homes, most people agree that bigger is better. However, not all people can afford the spacious mansions of their dreams.
Fortunately, something as simple as a fresh coat of paint can impact your perception of a room’s size and space. Certain paint colors and application techniques can create the illusion of a larger, more open space without the need for major renovations.
In this blog post, we’ll share expert tips to help you make your home feel bigger with nothing but some paint.
1. Choose Light Colors
Choosing light, neutral paint colors can make a space feel bigger. Whites, creams, pastels, and pale grays reflect more light, giving the impression of a larger space. If you have an open floor plan, use the same color throughout the connected area to create a seamless flow and an airy feeling.
2. Create Depth with Accent Walls
Accent walls can draw the eye to a specific area, creating the illusion of depth and spaciousness. They’re best used in smaller rooms or at the ends of hallways to add dimension without overwhelming the space.
For a subtler look, choose a deeper shade of the primary wall color. If a bolder look is more your style, opt for a contrasting color — for example, a deep blue with a pale gray.
3. Use Monochromatic Color Schemes
Monochromatic color schemes are another effective way to make your home feel bigger. These palettes use variations of a single color, creating visual continuity and harmony. To achieve this look, choose a base color and use slightly darker or lighter shades on different walls or trim. Incorporate décor into the color scheme, as well.
Because monochromatic schemes avoid creating choppy breaks or visual interruptions, they invite you to view the room as a whole, rather than its separate parts. It’s a great option for small spaces like bathrooms and hallways.
4. Consider Gloss and Sheen for Light Reflection
If you want to make a room feel bigger, consider using a glossier paint to reflect light and brighten the space. Not only does this make the room seem larger, but it also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.
However, you want to avoid high-gloss finishes on walls, as they can create too much reflection and detract from the spacious feel. Instead, opt for a semi-gloss or satin finish on ceilings, doors, or trim to add dimension without overpowering.
5. Play with Vertical and Horizontal Stripes
You’ve probably heard about how you can use striped clothing to play with your body proportions, making certain areas feel longer or wider. The same goes for wall paint — vertical and horizontal stripes can alter your perception of a room’s dimensions.
Vertical stripes make walls appear taller, making them ideal for rooms with low ceilings. Horizontal stripes, on the other hand, can make narrow spaces feel wider. To avoid an overpowering effect, use subtle, tone-on-tone stripes, such as soft beige and off-white.
6. Don’t Forget the Ceiling
The ceiling is an often overlooked aspect of interior design. Take advantage of its potential to make your home feel bigger by painting it a strategic shade.
For low ceilings, use a very light color — even white — to make it feel higher. In larger spaces with higher ceilings, painting the ceiling a slightly darker color than the walls can provide balance and help the room feel more cohesive.
7. Be Strategic with Trim
While painting your trim a contrasting color can create definition and a sense of structure, that may not be what you want if you aim to make your home feel bigger. Consider color drenching, a painting technique in which you paint everything the same shade — the walls, ceiling, and even trim. This strategy eliminates visual interruptions and creates a seamless, expansive appearance.
We Can Help You Make Your Home Feel Bigger
At Brush Brothers, we believe in the power of paint to help you achieve the home you’ve always wanted. From creating the illusion of spaciousness to influencing mood, thoughtful paint choices are an excellent way to transform the feeling of your home.
If you want to make your home feel bigger, schedule a consultation with Brush Brothers to explore paint colors, finishes, and techniques that can contribute to your desired result. With the help of our expert team, you can finally achieve the boundless home of your dreams.