Gone are the days of thinking that the only way in making a room look bigger is by painting all the walls white. While this is a tried-and-tested method, you can play with other colors to open tight spaces in your home. The right paint color can change how a room looks and feels from cool shades to warm tones. It can enhance the atmosphere, making a room cozier and more relaxing. So, if you’re thinking of giving your home a total makeover, consider the power of color and the following tips for painting a small space.
How To Make a Room Look Bigger With Paint
1. Brighten up a room with light colors.
Light paint colors can create the illusion of an open and airy space by reflecting and bouncing natural light. Off-whites, greens, and blues are excellent choices for this purpose. When coupled with natural light, you can use these types of paint to make a room look bigger and more inviting.
2. Unify the space with one color.
One way to make a room look bigger with paint is by using the same color throughout the space. This includes painting the ceilings, trims, and doors a shade lighter than the walls. This creates a seamless look that makes it easier for the eyes to move from one room to another. To enhance this effect, consider using the same color in your decor and pillows and adding an accent wall to draw the eye to a focal point.
3. Choose the correct undertone.
The undertone of a paint color refers to the blending of shades and tones underneath the final color. It is essential to choose the correct undertone to ensure that the paint color matches the pre-existing elements in a room, such as flooring, cabinets, tiles, and countertops. To figure out the undertone, compare the color to the primary colors (red, blue, yellow) and white. If you’re unsure of how to choose an undertone, it’s best to consult a paint expert.
4. Explore dark colors.
Dark colors can create a comfortable and intimate feeling in a room, even without natural light. Some colors of paint to make a room look bigger include the following:
- Light Taupe – For a light and neutral paint color that isn’t pure white, light taupe or greige can provide a sense of elegance and spaciousness. This color is bright enough to reflect light but has a warm undertone that adds depth to a room.
Best used: Rooms with minimal architectural details can create a sense of luxury. To enhance the light and airy feel, complement it with white furnishings.
- Soft Black – In rooms with little natural light, a dark color like black can create an intimate and grand atmosphere. Black or charcoal hues absorb light, making them ideal for rooms with minimal sunlight.
Best used: North-facing rooms where natural light is limited. For a cohesive look, consider painting the ceiling and trim in the same color.
- Dark Navy: A deep navy color is a great option for rooms with limited natural light. The rich, dark hue creates a dramatic and stately atmosphere that is perfect for spaces that need a touch of elegance and sophistication. The deep color creates an intimate and cozy feel, making it perfect for rooms where you want to relax and unwind. It’s also a great alternative to black if you’re looking for a darker color option.
Best used: Kitchens, libraries, and other spaces with cabinetry, limited natural light, and where you want to create a dramatic and elegant atmosphere.
- Blush Pink – A soft shade of blush pink can bring a sense of warmth and cheer to a room. The delicate hue works well in rooms with ample natural light, especially during sunset. It pairs nicely with light warm neutral tones like beige, sand, and ivory. To create a cohesive feel, consider painting the ceiling the same color as the walls or try two-tone painting techniques.
Best used: West-facing rooms where natural light is abundant.
- Cool Gray – A light cool gray is a great alternative to white for creating a fresh and bright room without the starkness of pure white. The cool tones visually enhance the appearance of more space. Use this color in a room with moderate amounts of natural light to give the space a cozy yet expansive feel.
Best used: An east or west-facing room with moderate natural light.
Key Takeaway
Make the most of your small space by using paint to create the illusion of a larger room. You can make a room look bigger with paint by playing with light and shadows, using color to create depth, and drawing the eye upward with strategic accent walls. Experiment with different hues and techniques to find the perfect look for your space and enjoy the benefits of a room that looks and feels bigger than it is.
Unlock the potential of your space with Jeff Schultz Painting.
If you’re planning to give your space a makeover anytime soon, let expert Sarasota painters Jeff Schultz Painting show you how to make a room look bigger with paint. Our team has years of experience and the knowledge to give you a spacious, open space with the perfect paint color and techniques. Don’t wait any longer, schedule your consultation today and discover the effective ways to enhance your space.
