Create the illusion of space at home

Dulux’s Forest Falls is the colour of the year. Here it’s used to excellent effect to maximise the sense of space.

Mirror, mirror

Every homemaker will tell you that mirrors are a great way to increase a sense of space, and they’re right, but only when they’re used correctly. Position long, portrait mirrors at the end of corridors to double their length. In hallways, position mirrors on both sides but avoid deep frames as this will encroach upon space.  The number one rule is “Always think about what you’re reflecting” – another wall or a dark alcove will only reduce the feeling of openness.

The art of the matter

 Once your mirrors are hung, think about your pictures and wall art. Larger pieces of wall art will create a sense of space – regimented rows of small pictures give a sense of clutter. If you’re wedded to the smaller pictures, group an odd number in the middle of the wall in an asymmetric pattern to draw attention away from the edges of the room.

Painted Love
�
When it comes to colour, think light and neutral and think about running different shades of the same colour through different areas of the room. If you’re feeling daring, paint and varnish a book case or console in the same colour as the walls to continue the theme into the furniture and set occasional furniture back in the room.

Eyes down

Where floor space is at a premium, create a sense of more by matching the skirting board paint with your carpet rather than the walls. In space-deprived bathrooms and kitchens, run the floor tiles on the diagonal to trick the eye into seeing more than there is and don’t be afraid to use large tiles – they’ll help rather than hinder ambitions for openness.

Window Dressing

Finally, make the most of your windows. Keep them clean (newspaper and vinegar never fail) and draw the eye to them with an eye catching plant or accessory. Think of it as a make-shift extension.