6 Small-Space Decorating Mistakes Everyone Makes

Decorating a small room can be a challenge—while you might think less space means fewer choices, it can get really tricky and it’s easy to make mistakes. However, once you know what not to do, you can get a clear picture and design a space you truly love. Here are six mistakes you’re making when decorating a small room or space, according to interior designers. 

Having Too Much Furniture

Whether it’s a small bedroom, living room, or home office, according to interior designer Amy Switzer, one of the most common mistakes is filling up every available inch with furniture and decor. “Instead, choose a few key pieces that serve multiple functions and leave some breathing room,” she says.

One smart way to get around this is to choose pieces that multitask, such as storage ottomans and wall desks with built-in shelves in living rooms and home offices. In a small bedroom, consider a headboard with built-in nightstands for a sleek aesthetic. 

Ignoring Scale

While it might be nice to have a large sectional with seating for five people, it’s more likely than not going to take up the majority of your living room if you live in a condo or apartment. So before you click “add to cart,” Switzer recommends pulling out the measuring tape to make sure the furniture you’re buying will actually fit the space. “Measure your carefully and choose appropriately sized furniture.”

One easy way to find small-scale pieces is to shop at stores such as Pottery Barn Teen and Pottery Barn Kids. In addition to smaller items like sofas, you’ll find scaled-down decor like lighting, shelves, desks, and other accessories with a surprisingly grownup aesthetic.   

Dark Paint and Wallpaper

If you’ve always wanted to paint a room black or install dark navy wallpaper, your minuscule living room might not be the place for that explains Switzer. She says, “While dark colors can add drama to a room, in some cases it can make it feel smaller and more cramped. Opt for lighter colors on the walls and furniture to create a sense of space and openness.”

However, that doesn’t mean you’re limited to light colors for every element. A rich hunter-green accent chair or a maroon throw blanket can add a hint of drama without closing in the room. 

While popular, dark wood can make a small kitchen feel even smaller. So, if possible, try to stain dark wood cabinets a lighter shade (you’ll need to stand them down first) or go with white, light green, or even light blue paint.

Blocking Windows

“Natural light can make a small room feel larger and more airy,” says Switzer. So, it’s crucial to let in as much sunshine as possible. The designer advises against blocking windows with heavy curtains or bulky furniture and instead going with sheer curtains or blinds to let the light in. 

One “trick” to increase natural light is with a mirror. She explains, “Mirrors can work wonders in a small space, reflecting light and creating the illusion of depth. Place a large mirror opposite a window to maximize the effect.” 

Too Much Clutter

The designer says an overly cluttered room can also feel smaller: “Clutter can make a small room feel chaotic and overwhelming. Keep surfaces clear and use clever storage solutions to keep belongings out of sight.”

So get rid of anything you don’t need or put it away and avoid an abundance of decor. This doesn’t means you can’t have any decor, but it’s best to limit it. A smart approach is to opt for fewer large pieces instead of many small ones.  

Too Many Different Styles

While it’s perfectly okay to appreciate modern, traditional, and contemporary styles, it’s often messy to mix a variety of aesthetics in a smaller room. So try to stick to one style and color scheme. Switzer advises, “Then select furniture and accessories that complement each other. Following some of these tips you can make the most of your small space and create a room that feels both functional and beautiful.”