Watching interior design shows can be frustrating, can’t it? We’re shown big spaces with high ceilings and plenty of natural light. The reality is that most of us don’t live with such generous square footage, so how can we make the most of the room we do have when redecorating?
No matter the size of the space you’re working with, it’s all about optical illusions. If you choose the right décor, a room can look much bigger and more spacious. To do this with furniture, using mirrored fitted wardrobes is a classic and effective way to make a bedroom feel airy.
You can also use wallpaper to achieve a magnifying or lengthening effect, but the type you choose will make a difference to the room. With wallpaper very much making a comeback, use our breakdown below to help you choose the star of your next project.
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Geometric prints
Depending on the direction of a print, you can change the whole perception of the space.
For example, use vertical stripes and the room will feel tall, but use horizontal stripes and it’ll be wider.
More complex geometric shapes, like chevrons or diamonds, can both lengthen the room and provide a point of interest.
Be careful not to use a print that is too busy on too many walls, as this can create a dizzying impact. Use a packed print on a feature wall only to avoid overwhelm!
Patterns and murals
You have to be careful with patterns. Patterns with a small repeating motif can make a room look smaller than it is because they draw the eye in.
If you want a pattern, opt for a larger motif with enough space between the patterns for the eye to relax.
Even better, think about a landscape mural to draw your gaze up and give a room a sense of depth.
Texture
One of the easiest ways to add depth to a room is to add texture. Most people think of doing this with soft furnishings, but wallpaper is an underutilised tool for textural interior design.
You can find embossed wallpaper of many varieties, popular in the latter half of the twentieth century. This is also usually paintable if you so wish.
You can also find more organic textured wallpaper, such as natural grasscloth, which has a classy yet cosy feel.
Choosing textured wallpaper in a light colour is yet another way to make the room feel more spacious.
Metallic
To reflect light around the room and exude class, wallpaper in metallic tones may be the choice for you.
This way, the walls will behave in a similar way to mirrors and allow you to make the most of any natural light.