Small spaces can be challenging to design however the right paint colours can dramatically transform even the most modest of rooms, making them feel more spacious, airy, and inviting.
Whether you’re dealing with a cosy bedroom, a compact living room, or a tiny bathroom, understanding how colour influences perception is essential. Here’s some tips and tricks to choosing the best NEO paint palette for small spaces, along with ideas on maximising the sense of space in your home.
1. Embrace Neutral Tones
Why It Works: Light colours are the go-to for small spaces because they reflect more light, which helps to make a room feel more open and larger. Neutrals, such as soft whites, light greys, and pale beiges, are particularly effective. These hues create a clean, airy backdrop that expands the perceived space.
NEO Pro Tip: Try painting walls, trim, and ceilings in the same light colour to blur the lines between different surfaces. This creates a seamless look that reduces visual clutter and enhances the sense of space.
2. Opt for Cool Colours
Why It Works: Cool colours, such as blues and greens tend to recede, meaning they create the illusion of more space by pushing the walls outward. These colours also have a calming effect, making them perfect for small bedrooms or bathrooms.
NEO Pro Tip: Consider a soft, pale blue or green for walls and pair it with crisp white trim to create a refreshing, expansive feel. Cool tones can also be paired with light wood accents or metallics to add depth without overwhelming the space.
3. Monochromatic Colour Schemes
Why It Works: A monochromatic colour scheme involves using different shades and tints of the same colour throughout the room. This technique creates a harmonious, unified look that avoids visual breaks—making a room feel larger.
NEO Pro Tip: Use varied textures within the same colour family to add interest and dimension. For example, pair a matt wall with glossy accents or a plush rug with smooth, satin finishes. This adds layers to the room without compromising the sense of space.
4. Accent Walls with a Twist
Why It Works: While bold colours shrink a space if overused, a strategically placed accent wall can enhance the sense of depth in a small room. Choose a wall that naturally draws the eye, such as the wall behind the bed or behind the sofa.
NEO Pro Tip: Select a colour that’s slightly darker than the rest of the room but still within the same colour family. This subtle contrast adds dimension without overwhelming the space. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a soft pattern or wallpaper for the accent wall to add texture and interest.
5. Consider Low-Contrast Schemes
Why It Works: High contrast between walls, furniture, and décor can create visual boundaries that make a room feel more confined. Instead, opt for low-contrast colour schemes, where the differences between colours are minimal. This approach maintains an open look that stretches the space.
NEO Pro Tip: Match your furniture and décor with the wall colour. For example, if you have light grey walls, choose upholstery in a slightly darker grey or soft taupe. This subtle blending reduces visual stops, making the room feel more expansive.
6. Use Vertical and Horizontal Stripes
Why It Works: Stripes are a classic design trick for altering perceptions of space. Vertical stripes can make a room feel taller, while horizontal stripes can make it feel wider.
NEO Pro Tip: Keep the stripes subtle by choosing colours within the same family or in neutral tones. Thin stripes are more sophisticated and less overwhelming in small spaces than wide, bold stripes.
7. Remember the Ceiling
Why It Works: The ceiling (often referred to as the ‘fifth wall’) plays a crucial role in the perception of space. Painting the ceiling a lighter colour than the walls can make the ceiling appear higher, which in turn makes the room feel larger.
NEO Pro Tip: If you have low ceilings, consider painting them a pale colour with a slight sheen to reflect light. For an added touch, extend the wall colour a few inches onto the ceiling to elongate the walls.
Final Thoughts
When designing small spaces, every choice counts. The right paint colour will work wonders, transforming a cramped room into an open, airy retreat. Remember, lighter and cooler tones, low-contrast schemes, and thoughtful use of accent walls and stripes can all contribute to a more spacious feel. Don’t shy away from experimenting within these guidelines to find the perfect hue that enhances both your space and personal style.