6 Common Design Mistakes For Small Spaces & How to Fix Them

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1. Avoid Heavy, Dark Furnishings in Small Spaces

One common mistake in small spaces is the use of heavy, dark furnishings. These can overwhelm the room, making it feel cramped. For instance, oversized, dark sofas can dominate a space and make it appear smaller.

Instead, choose lighter woods and finishes. A light color palette helps the eye move freely, creating an illusion of spaciousness.

A cottage room with dark furniture could be transformed by painting the ceiling white and opting for lighter, smaller-scale sofas.

2. Proper Bed Placement: Avoid Blocking Windows

Another frequent issue is placing beds in front of windows. While sometimes unavoidable, there are strategies to make it work better.

Opt for a low-profile headboard that doesn’t obstruct the window, allowing light to filter through.

Consider headboards with cane backs or metal frames for a lighter feel.

Additionally, pay attention to the view of the bed and the window treatments as a whole. Draping the entire wall or using long drapery rods can create a cohesive and intentional look. Top-down, bottom-up shades also provide privacy while letting in natural light.

3. Measure Your Space Before Buying Furniture

Failing to measure the space before purchasing furniture is a critical error. Oversized items can make a room feel cramped and uncomfortable.

Professional designers always start with a plan, using tools like graph paper or design apps to ensure furniture fits appropriately. A clear layout not only saves time and money but also prevents the frustration of dealing with oversized furniture.

4. Don’t Push All Furniture Against the Walls

Another common issue is pushing all furniture against the walls, leaving the center of the room empty and creating a disjointed space. Instead, consider floating furniture in the middle of the room to create intentional conversation areas and dining spaces. This approach uses the entire space more effectively, as seen in loft areas where furniture is strategically placed to define different zones without crowding the walls.

5. Choose the Right Size Rug for Your Space

Using rugs that are too small for the space is another frequent mistake. Area rugs should anchor seating groups and collections of furnishings. For a living room, the minimum size should be around 8x10 feet, with larger spaces potentially requiring even bigger rugs.

Smaller rugs can be used in bathrooms or bedrooms, while larger rugs help tie together the various elements in a living area.

6. Hang Artwork at the Right Height

Hanging artwork too high on the walls is a widespread error. The general rule of thumb is to hang artwork with the centerline at about 60 to 65 inches above the floor, though this can vary depending on the space and the artwork.

Whether it’s a gallery wall or a single statement piece, artwork should be integrated into the room’s overall design.

A pro tip for budget-friendly art: consider framing images from large-scale coffee table books to create a cohesive and stylish gallery at a fraction of the cost.

By following these guidelines and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a more harmonious and functional space that reflects your style while making the most of the room you have.