by Kathryn Kirby

Created on: September 24, 2010   Last Updated: September 30, 2010

Small living rooms provide a special challenge for homeowners and designers alike. Luckily, there are some simple tricks that can help solve your dilemma. Especially if you have recently moved from a larger space. You need to be prepared to change furniture though; small living rooms are swallowed alive by a sectional. Dark colors can also create an issue by making the space feel closed and cramped like a cave. Before you actually start decorating, look around.

Is your space cramped with furniture and accessories? Do you have a lot of large pieces in the small space? Are your current colors dark or light? How much light does the room get both artificially and naturally? After you have answered those questions its time to draw the room and contents to scale. Rearrange the items to achieve a comfortable flow that you can live with. If you cannot get everything to fit comfortably then it is time to consider downsizing.

Trade in that now gigantic sectional or sofa for a smaller, cozy love seat. Lose that over-compensating coffee table and consider more end tables between the furniture or a small set of nesting tables in front of the love seat. Retire the large, elegant entertainment center to a larger Family Room or Master Bedroom. Replace it with a smaller cabinet or consider mounting the electronics on the wall.

Now that we have downsized, it is time to talk color and accessories. Color is actually the easiest part of this redecoration. Go for the lighter side of the colors you love. Light colors instantly open a space up and make it feel bigger. Keep the dark colors limited to the accessories and go light on the walls and furniture where possible. If your furniture is dark, consider slipcovers or use blankets and throws as accessories.

Hanging curtains that go from the top of the window to the floor visually raises the ceiling making the room bigger. Keep the curtains light and airy if possible to allow as much natural light into the space as possible. Add table lamps, wall sconces and candles along with glass holders and vases to capture and reflect the light. Stay with the bare minimum for the maximum desired effect.

Not enough seating in your newly redesigned space? Add some large throw pillows for the kiddos or use a footstool for a coffee table. If all else fails, keep padded folding chairs at the ready. Keep things light and reflective and you will end up with a warm inviting spaces that appear to be twice its actual size. Taking these tips into consideration, you are now ready to decorate any small space.

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