Creating the illusion of a larger space in a small room is a common challenge for many homeowners and designers. Fortunately, the right flooring choices can improve the perceived size of a room. Read on as we uncover 7 secrets to transforming a cramped space into something with a spacious and inviting feel.

1. Incorporate Reflective Finishes

Using wood flooring with reflective finishes is a smart way to create a sense of space in your small room. Glossy or semi-glossy finishes with high sheen levels make an illuminating effect that bounces light around the room. This clever play of light adds brightness and depth to the space, making it feel more open and welcoming.

2. Optimise Flooring Direction

The direction you install your wood flooring can have a big impact on the perceived size of your room. To create an open and expansive feel, lay the planks parallel to the longest wall. This elongates the space and gives a sense of length. Alternatively, diagonal installation can visually expand the room, providing a unique and visually appealing touch.

3. Use Chevron and Herringbone Designs

Chevron and herringbone patterns can work wonders in making your small room look more spacious and stylish. The similarity lies in their zigzag arrangement, which draws the eye along the planks, making the room feel larger.

For a more traditional aesthetic, we recommend the herringbone pattern, whereas chevron works better in modern spaces. By incorporating these eye-catching designs, you'll achieve a sense of openness that improves the overall appeal of your small space.

4. Balance the Colour Between Floors and Walls

Achieving the right balance of colour between your wood flooring and walls is a great way to make your room feel bigger.

Consider using complementary colour schemes that seamlessly blend the two elements together, avoiding sharp contrasts that can visually separate the space. For example, choosing light grey flooring and painting the walls in a corresponding shade of grey can create a cohesive and expansive look.

4. Embrace Wider Planks for a More Expansive Feel

Wide plank wood flooring can be a game-changer, unlike narrow boards that can create a busier appearance, wider planks have the power to visually enlarge the space. With fewer seams between planks, the room gains a sense of continuity, drawing the eyes outward and giving the walls a farther appearance.

5. Consistency is Key

Consider how the wider area will complement your small space. By using the same wood flooring throughout the entire space, you create a seamless flow that eliminates visual boundaries between areas. This unified approach tricks the eye into perceiving a larger, cohesive space. Whether it's the living room, dining area, or hallway, maintaining consistent wood flooring enhances the room's spacious feel.

6. Experiment with Light and Dark

Lght-coloured floors reflect more light, making the room feel brighter and more open. This helps create an illusion of spaciousness, especially when combined with ample natural and artificial lighting. Light floors also can visually expand the boundaries of the room, making it feel more airy and inviting.

Dark-coloured flooring can also have its advantages, despite light colours typically being the recommended option. Dark floors can create a sense of depth and provide a strong contrast to lighter elements in the space, such as furniture. However, it's important to note that dark floors can visually absorb light and make a room feel smaller if not balanced properly.

When deciding between the two, consider how much natural light is in the space. If the room receives good natural lighting, light-coloured flooring can help enhance the brightness and openness. On the other hand, in rooms with limited natural light, dark flooring may create a cosy and intimate atmosphere.

Our team of experts is ready to help you find the perfect flooring solution to transform your small room. Contact us today and let's discuss how we can bring your vision to life.