How to Get a Feeling of Openness in Rooms

Paint the walls a light color. Lighter colors make a room seem more spacious and give the illusion that the ceiling is farther away than it is. Use neutral colors or pastels in the lightest hue possible. Dark colors give the room a cozy, intimate feeling because they seem to pull the walls and ceiling down.

Choose a monochromatic color palette in the flooring and furniture. Go with a neutral to light light color, then accent with darker colors and textures. Select small but colorful accents like throw pillows, lamp shades, window treatments and plants.

Bring lots of light into a small room to make it seem more open. Hang sheer curtains and tie them back during the day to maximize the natural light and make the window seem bigger. Add other light sources to the room, such as a tall floor lamp.

Select a few large pieces of furniture rather than lots of small pieces. Low furniture will make the room seem more open, as will furniture with clean lines and simple patterns. Avoid overstuffed, ornate or dark furniture. Place large furniture items up against the walls to keep the center space open. Consider glass end tables and coffee tables -- because the see-through effect will keep the room open, yet still provide you with necessary surface space.

Hang a large mirror on one wall, preferably across from the window or door. Increase the appearance of space as the mirror reflects the natural light already filling the room. When hanging artwork, display a single large piece rather than several smaller ones, because they will make the wall seem cluttered and filled up.