5 Ways to Make a Small Home Decor Space Look Bigger in Classic Contemporary Design
Have you ever walked into a small room and felt instantly overwhelmed by clutter, dark corners, or furniture that just doesn’t fit? Designing small spaces can be tricky, but with the right approach, they can feel open, airy, and stylish. Classic contemporary design—known for its clean lines, neutral tones, and functional elegance—offers the perfect way to make a small home look more spacious and luxurious.
Here are five practical and stylish ways to enhance your space while maintaining a classic contemporary aesthetic.
1. Embrace a Light and Neutral Colour Palette
Light, neutral tones create an airy ambiance by reflecting natural light. Opt for shades like white, cream, beige, or soft grey on walls, furniture, and decor. These colours help eliminate visual clutter and make a room feel larger.
In classic contemporary design, a monochromatic or tonal colour scheme works particularly well in small spaces. Consider layering different shades of the same colour to add depth without overwhelming the room. For example, a soft cream-coloured sofa can be paired with off-white cushions and a slightly darker beige rug to create visual harmony without breaking the sense of openness.
To prevent the space from feeling too flat, incorporate different textures like soft linens, matte finishes, brushed metals, or polished surfaces. These subtle contrasts add sophistication while keeping the overall aesthetic light and inviting. Avoid heavy, dark furniture that can make a small room feel even smaller, and opt for sleek, contemporary pieces that seamlessly blend with your chosen colour scheme.
Pro Tip: If you love bold colours, introduce them through accessories like cushions, vases, or artwork instead of large furniture pieces or walls. This ensures flexibility in updating your space without sacrificing the illusion of openness.
2. Maximise Natural Light with Reflective Elements
Natural light is your best friend when designing small spaces. It opens up a room, making it feel brighter and more expansive. To enhance natural light, use window treatments that allow maximum sunlight to flow through.
Instead of heavy drapes, opt for sheer curtains or light-filtering blinds that maintain privacy while allowing sunlight to enter the room. If you prefer a more structured look, Roman shades in light, neutral fabrics can provide the same effect while adding a touch of elegance.
Another game-changer? Mirrors. Large mirrors strategically placed across from windows can double the natural light in a space while creating the illusion of depth. Instead of a traditional mirror, consider mirrored furniture pieces or decorative wall panels with reflective surfaces to add both function and style.
For an extra layer of reflection, introduce glossy finishes in furniture or decor. Glass tabletops, high-gloss cabinetry, and metallic accents can all subtly bounce light around the room, making it feel larger and more open.
Pro Tip: Position a floor-length mirror behind a key furniture piece, such as a console table or sofa, to amplify depth and create a more open feel.
3. Invest in multifunctional and streamlined furniture.
Classic contemporary design is all about function and form. In small spaces, every piece of furniture should serve a purpose beyond aesthetics. Opt for pieces that maximise storage, offer flexibility, and contribute to an uncluttered look.
Examples of great multi-functional furniture include:
- Ottomans with hidden storage for blankets, books, or extra seating
- Extendable dining tables that can accommodate guests when needed
- Wall-mounted desks or foldable surfaces for work-from-home setups
- Sofas with built-in storage for an easy way to keep things organised
When selecting furniture, go for sleek designs with open legs instead of heavy, boxy pieces. A floating TV console or a wall-mounted bookshelf creates an airy aesthetic while maintaining practicality.
Pro Tip: Invest in custom-built furniture that perfectly fits your space. Built-in storage solutions, such as floor-to-ceiling shelves or under-bed storage, can significantly enhance space efficiency without compromising style.
4. Incorporate Vertical Space for Added Depth
When floor space is limited, look up! Utilising vertical space is a smart way to add storage, improve functionality, and create a sense of height in a small room.
How to Use Vertical Space Effectively:
1. Install floating shelves to display books, decorative objects, and essentials without taking up floor space.
2. Use tall, slim cabinets instead of wide, bulky dressers to free up floor space.
3. Hang pendant lights or wall sconces instead of floor lamps to save space and create visual height.
4. Place artwork or mirrors higher up on walls to draw the eye upward and make the ceiling feel taller.
A great way to enhance the classic contemporary aesthetic while using vertical space is to introduce architectural details like vertical panelling, elongated mirrors, or tall statement artwork. These elements naturally guide the eye upward, making a space feel much more expansive than it actually is.
Pro Tip: If possible, choose floor-to-ceiling curtains instead of shorter ones. This design trick elongates the walls and adds an elegant, airy feel to the room.
5. Keep Decor Minimal Yet Intentional
A console table styled with a glass vase, framed monochromatic art, and other neutral toned accessories. Notice how minimalism enhances spaciousness and sophistication.
A clutter-free environment makes a small space feel bigger, not busier. Stick to a less is more approach by carefully selecting a few statement pieces that complement your space.
The key to making small spaces feel luxurious is choosing decor with purpose. Instead of overcrowding shelves with multiple small objects, opt for a few larger, high-quality statement pieces that add personality without overwhelming the space.
This can be achieved by:
- Considering monochromatic art that blends with your colour palette to create cohesion.
- Adding sculptural vases, textured cushions, or a signature chair that aligns with the classic contemporary style.
- Introducing indoor plants like tall snake plants or fiddle leaf figs to add vibrancy and a natural sense of openness.
By thoughtfully curating decor, you maintain a refined and spacious look rather than an overcrowded feel.
Pro Tip: Use hidden storage baskets and furniture with built-in compartments to keep necessary items accessible but out of sight, reducing visual clutter.
Final Thoughts
Designing a small home with classic contemporary style doesn’t mean sacrificing elegance. With neutral colors, reflective elements, multi-functional furniture, vertical storage, and intentional decor, your space can feel open and sophisticated.
What’s your biggest challenge when decorating a small space? Drop a comment below — I’d love to hear your thoughts!