How to turn a cramped "box" into a spacious apartment: designers' secrets

Housing in modern megacities is becoming increasingly compact.

Many are forced to huddle in small studio apartments or one-room apartments.

It would seem that it is impossible to create coziness and comfort in such a limited space. But experienced designers know how to visually expand even the most cramped dwelling, says Yulia Tychino .

Today we will look at 10 effective tricks that will help transform a tiny "box" into a spacious and comfortable apartment.

Playing with color and lighting

The first and most effective way to visually enlarge the space is to use a light color scheme. The lighter the walls and ceiling, the more spacious the room will seem.

The best shades for this purpose are white, beige, light gray. Dark colors, on the contrary, "eat up" the light and visually reduce the room.

Also, the abundance of artificial light sources creates a feeling of spaciousness and air. Additional lamps, sconces and spotlights will help dispel the darkness in dark corners.

Mirrors and glossy surfaces

One of the simplest and most accessible ways to visually enlarge a room is to use reflective surfaces. Mirrors, glass panels or glossy tiles in the bathroom seem to double the space.

Place a large mirror opposite a window or light source to maximize the effect. Several small mirrors can also help to visually expand narrow hallways or entryways.

Minimalism in the interior

The fewer things in a cramped room, the more spacious it seems. That's why designers recommend a minimalist approach to decorating "box" apartments.

Avoid unnecessary furniture, large and heavy objects. Replace bulky wardrobes with light open shelving. Choose functional transformable furniture. The fewer things in the room, the more freely it breathes.

Playing on contrasts

An interesting design trick is to create a contrast between the spaces of the apartment. For example, make the living room light and airy, and the bedroom dark and cozy.

This contrast will add dynamics to a small room and allow you to take a fresh look at its dimensions. The main thing is to skillfully combine colors and textures so that the transitions between zones look organic.

Light curtains and tulle

Heavy, thick curtains visually "press down" low ceilings. It is better to replace them with light, light fabrics - curtains made of tulle, organza or voile. Such flowing curtains will create a feeling of height and air.

Roman blinds are suitable for small windows. But it is better to refuse heavy lambrequins. Light curtains are a simple way to visually raise low ceilings.

Multi-level ceilings

An interesting move is to divide a low ceiling into zones using suspended structures. You can create a light suspension of plasterboard above the dining table, decorating it with built-in lamps. Such a multi-level structure will visually raise the ceiling.

Suspended ceilings made of plasterboard or wooden panels will allow you to divide a monotonous space into functional zones - a reception area, a kitchen, a living room.

Vertical accents

To somehow dilute the monotonous walls of the box, designers actively use vertical accents. This can be a decorative partition, a column, an arch, a high rack, a narrow closet to the ceiling.

Vertical elements visually "stretch" the room. Alternating high and low structures look especially impressive, creating a play of heights. The main thing is not to overdo it and leave enough free space.

Open plan

Another trick from designers is to create the illusion of a free layout in a small apartment. To do this, you need to visually open up the space as much as possible by removing all internal partitions.

Instead of traditional walls, you can use sliding partitions, screens, arches and columns. Such lightweight structures can divide the space into zones, while maintaining a sense of freedom and air.

Focus on details

A small living space is also an opportunity to focus on interior details. Beautiful textile panels, textured wallpaper, and unusual lamps can turn boring walls into real works of art.

Pay attention to the little things: choose stylish door handles, creative towel hooks, unusual vases and flower pots. Such details will add uniqueness even to the smallest apartment.

Plants for visual expansion of space

Indoor plants are not only cozy, but also help to visually expand a cramped space. Tall graceful palms, ferns and dieffenbachias will create a sense of height. Blooming orchids and anthuriums will bring color and freshness to the interior.

With the right selection and placement, even a few plants can transform the interior of a cramped apartment, making it more lively and aesthetically pleasing. The main thing is not to turn a small apartment into a jungle and leave enough free space.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many ways to visually expand a cramped apartment. The main thing when decorating a "box" is to trust the professionals and not try to squeeze as much furniture and things into a small space as possible.

And with the help of skillful play with color, light and textures, even the tiniest apartment will turn into a cozy, spacious home.

Previously we talked about what colors to use in a child's room .