Color Play: How to Use Paint to Make Small Spaces Big

By Lauren Busser, The House Designers contributing writer

Choosing a paint color can be overwhelming, especially for a small space. Small rooms can be confining and claustrophobic, but with careful control of elements and color play, paint can go a long way to fooling the eye and making a space comfortable for all. The thought of choosing a color from the bottom of a paint chip seems terrifying in these spaces, but there is no need to be afraid of dark colors.

While it is true that white and icy blue colors can go very far in fooling the eye, it is not the only option. Light colors can open up a space, painting a room a really dark color can make the walls recede, giving the illusion that they are further back than it really is. Meanwhile, medium tones can take focus off the size of the room entirely. The walls are just there, and no illusion is cast.

The trick with colors is to remember that lights come forward and darks recede, balancing the different hues is essential in designing your own space, which is why the accents are so important in dark spaces.

The truth is, that any color can work in any space if used correctly. The trick to painting with dark colors is all in the accents. Tricks like painting the trim and ceiling a lighter hue of the same family, will open up the room. Painting three walls in a dark color and one in the slightly lighter color will also have the same effect.

Take a look at some of our small house floor plans. The pictures can give you more color ideas.

There is no need to fear what you perceive to be the perfect color for your space. With a little know how and some creative decorating, any room can be stylish without feeling confined.