How to Use Space in Decorating

How you use space in decorating can make all the difference. Interior space is defined by walls, floors, ceilings, doors, windows, and any other architectural features. When decorating an interior you design in space, very much like an artist composing a painting on canvas.

Paying attention to the space you have can enable you to create an interior that is pleasing to you, while also making your life less stressful. The best use of space is to consider the aesthetics while also paying attention to functional considerations. Here is how to break down the process into 3 easy steps.

Evaluate:

Evaluate your space to find out what you are working with.

• Measure the length and width of your room. You can visually alter your space.
• How high is the ceiling?
• What is the shape of the room?

Define:

Define this space. How will you use it?
• Will you break it up into interconnected areas, or is the space going to function as one whole?
• Does the ceiling need to feel lower or higher?
• Do you want to make the room appear smaller or bigger?

Alter:

Alter your space according to how you plan to use it.
• You can visually alter your space using forms, lines, textures, color, pattern and light.
• Use small scale furniture or furniture which seems small because of its shape or pattern to make a tiny room look bigger.
• Mirrors can create an illusion of greater space as can built in furniture that is mounted above the floor.
• Dark colors can visually help shrink a space, just as lighter colors can open it up.