1. Start with light and bright colours: Darker colours have a tendency to make a small space feel even smaller, while light colours will instantly make a room feel more open and airy. Opt for shades of white, grey, or other neutrals. If you’re in the mood for more colour, embrace pastels and softer tones of your favourite colours. These shades will reflect natural light and create an illusion of space, making your compact interior feel more expansive and welcoming.

2. Choose multi-functional furniture: When it comes to a small space, multi-functional furniture can be a game changer. Pieces that serve more than one purpose will allow you to save space and make the most of every inch of your home. For example, look for a coffee table with hidden storage, a dining table that can be extended when needed, a bed frame that has built-in shelving, a couch that turns into a bed, an ottoman that offers inside storage, etc.

3. Optimise your vertical space: If your floor space is limited, look up! Utilise vertical space to its fullest potential by adding wall-mounted shelves, cabinets, and bookcases. Not only do these provide additional storage, but they also draw the eye upward, making the room appear more spacious. Additionally, consider using tall, slender furniture to maximize verticality without overwhelming the space.

4. Instead of tables, consider floating shelves: Carrying on from the above, floating shelves are great to use if you’re tight on space as they won’t take up any floor area and can be easily positioned anywhere you might need a table or somewhere to place items. For example, choose a bedside shelf instead of bedside tables, or place a floating shelf by your couch instead of a coffee or side table.

5. Use mirrors strategically: Mirrors make a room appear larger by giving the illusion of space via their magical reflective properties. When light hits a mirror, it bounces off and creates the illusion of depth. By thoughtfully positioning mirrors on walls or opposite windows, they will reflect natural light back into the area, instantly brightening the room and making it feel much more spacious.

6. Create ‘zones’ through furniture placement: When you’re tight on space, it's essential to define different areas of the home without using walls. Arrange furniture strategically to create distinct ‘zones’ or areas for living, dining, and working. Rugs and lighting can also help define these spaces while maintaining an open and cohesive feel.

7. Embrace the power of foldable/stackable furniture: Foldable and stackable furniture is a must for small spaces. Invest in foldable chairs, tables, and desks that can be easily tucked away when not needed. Stackable stools and nesting tables are also great space-saving options that can be stored compactly when not in use. Additionally, fold-down desks and tables are very useful for compact interiors that double as home offices of dining spaces. These can be mounted on walls and folded up when not in use, providing a functional workspace and dining area without taking up precious floor space.

Maximising compact spaces is all about creativity, smart planning, and practical design solutions. With a little creativity and these clever design tips, your small space can become a stylish and functional oasis that feels spacious. Remember, less can indeed be more when it comes to designing a compact interior that perfectly suits your needs and lifestyle. If you’re ready to get started on your next decorating project, call into your local Crown Paints stockist today for everything you’ll need!