Small Spaces, Big Impact: How to Style Your Tiny Rooms Like a Pro
Small rooms often get a bad rap. While estate agents and property gurus might tout the dream of spacious, open-plan living, I’m here to tell you that small rooms have so much to offer. In fact, I absolutely adore styling them. These little spaces can quickly transform into jewel boxes of delight – costing less, taking less time to decorate, and often packing a bigger punch than their larger counterparts.
Sadly, small rooms often get overlooked, becoming a catch-all for things that don’t have a proper home. But trust me, when you get it right, these compact areas can become the most charming, personality-filled corners of your home. Whether it’s a snug TV room, a cosy guest bedroom, a downstairs loo, or a creative nook, small rooms have the potential to surprise and delight. It’s all about making bold choices, styling smartly, and maximising every inch of space. Want to make your little room feel five times more fabulous? Keep reading…
Don’t be afraid of dark shades
Green, glorious green! It’s a pattern-packed party in this joyful cottage kitchen. Photography: Tim Young
Let’s start strong. A small room painted in a bold, saturated shade can look utterly delicious. People always worry it’ll make the space feel smaller, but it actually makes it feel dramatic, cocooning and rich with atmosphere. I’ll also make the argument that a dark colour can also make a room have more depth and in that way, feel bigger. Plus, the results can be seriously stylish. I love this approach for spaces used mainly in the evening or to retreat to – think of a TV snug, a reading nook or a quiet corner to unwind. You’re not trying to flood it with daylight, you’re creating a moody vibe. My professional tip is to colour drench it, as contrasting bright white ceilings or woodwork will pop out and jar. So go all in.
Keep the lighting ambient and adaptable
Lighting is everything. Ditch the harsh overheads and layer it up with wall lights, and lamps. Photography: Tim Young
If you do lean into the drama with darker colours, then getting the lighting spot on is essential. Forget the harsh overhead glare of the lonely pendant light, and instead, this is your cue to bring in all those soft, glowing light sources that make a room feel warm and layered. Table lamps, wall lights, and floor lamps – all of them can help highlight intentional areas and add a gentle, golden glow. Put them on dimmers if you can. It’s the secret to creating mood and making the room work all day and night.
Supersize for a luxurious feel
Small space? Go big with furniture! Sofa: Love Your Home upholstered with Wonderland Floral in Amethyst. Paint colour: Cordoba by Little Greene. Painting by Sophie Abbott. Dylan Footstool by Love your Home upholstered in Sherbert Stripe Lapis by Harlequin X Sophie Robinson
Here’s a tip that might surprise you: going bold with furniture in a small room can actually work wonders. Instead of filling the space with lots of tiny chairs and delicate tables, focus on one or two standout pieces that anchor the room. In our snug, we opted for a massive custom sofa, and it’s quickly become our favourite spot to relax together. There’s something truly indulgent about a room that embraces comfort, even in a smaller space—it maximises every inch without any wasted space. Think fewer pieces, but make them bigger and better. And don’t forget, a key accessory can also elevate the space. Consider a large chandelier overhead, or a striking piece of artwork or a statement table lamp to add that touch of drama.
Use bright colour and pattern to build contrast
Go bold with a fabulous wallpaper. Paint colour: Huntsman Green by Zoffany. Rabarber Wallpaper by Borastapeter Photography: Tim Young
Small rooms can sometimes feel a bit underwhelming, but you can easily make up for it by injecting bold colour and pattern. My go-to trick is to wrap the room in patterned wallpaper—there’s something about the movement in the pattern that draws the eye in, creating a sense of depth. Bright, contrasting pops of colour work in a similar way, helping to punctuate the space and add that extra layer of interest. These little bursts of colour bring energy and personality to the room, stopping it from feeling flat or too muted. It’s like turning up the volume just enough to make it sing.
Layering plush textures adds warmth and depth
From the wallpaper to the hanging plates and vintage art – every surface is doing its bit. Wallpaper: Ottoline Devries, freestanding bath by Burlington, painted in Blazer by Farrow & Ball. Vintage Moroccan rug by Sunday & Story.
So there you have it – five easy ways to give small rooms some serious swagger. You won’t be surprised to hear my advice is never about stripping things back or playing it safe, and never more so than in small rooms. Quite the opposite. Be bold with your colours, generous with your statement pieces, and fearless with your pattern styling. These little spaces can handle it.
They’re ready for their moment – are you?!
