6 Design Hacks to Make a Small Living Room Appear Larger

From finding enough seating to decorating the walls—striking the right balance between functionality and style in a small living room can be tricky. So, what’s the secret to turning a cramped space into a cozy and welcoming retreat? It’s all about visual tricks. Here are eight techniques designers use to make compact living rooms seem more spacious and open.

Go Big with Rugs for a Larger Look

The wrong rug size can make a space feel even smaller, says Rachel Humphreys of Humphrey Orr Interiors. "Choose a rug that’s the right size for your room," she advises. "Many people make the mistake of placing rugs just under the seating area, which can make the space feel tighter. A custom rug with a subtle wood border can really open up a room and make it feel more expansive."

Mount Curtains Higher for a Taller Look

One of Humphreys’ favorite tricks is installing curtains well above the window to draw the eye upwards. She recommends hanging the rods about two-thirds of the way from the top of the window to the ceiling. “This will create the illusion of higher ceilings and a more spacious room.” Make sure to double-check your measurements to avoid ordering the wrong size.

Think About Adding Built-Ins

Custom built-ins can completely change how you use space in a smaller living room. “Built-ins like bookcases can add depth to the room and offer additional storage to help cut down on clutter,” says Humphreys. "The top of the built-in should reach the ceiling to help create a sense of height and make the room feel more grand."

Built-ins are also great opportunities to introduce design features. For example, you can paint them in a striking color or add custom moldings to create a distinctive look.

Incorporate a Mirror

“Reflective surfaces are a fantastic way to make a room feel larger,” says Humphreys. “Placing a large, decorative mirror on a wall can visually expand the space.”

If mirrors aren’t your thing, Humphreys recommends opting for highly reflective paint. This can create a similar effect by bouncing light throughout the room and making it feel more open and airy.

Limit Your Furniture Pieces

While you may be tempted to include a sofa, side table, coffee table, ottoman, floor lamp, and two accent chairs, you might need to downsize your options in a smaller space. “In a compact room, a large sofa or sectional, a coffee table, and a chair may be all you need,” says Humphreys. “Cramming too much furniture into a room can make it feel crowded and cramped.”

If you’re short on storage, think about a sofa or ottoman with built-in compartments, or a TV console with ample closed cabinetry to hide away items.

Ditch the Gallery Wall

While a gallery wall might seem like a great fit for a small room, HomeGoods expert Ursula Carmona recommends opting for a large-scale statement artwork instead. “A single large piece eliminates visual clutter and makes the space feel more expansive, unlike a gallery wall,” she explains.