I’m a paint expert – avoid ‘crisp, bright whites’ when decorating a small space, there are multiple downsides

A HOME decor expert has revealed how strategically using paint colors and shades can help create the illusion of space.

Small household spaces can feel cramped, but the paint aficionado shared guidelines to follow to transform them, including the downsides.

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The Paint Shed Managing Director Michael shared tips to make rooms look bigger (stock image)[/caption]

There are easy, affordable ways to make rooms look bigger and this can be as simple as a new paint job paired with the right accessories

The Paint Shed Managing Director Michael Rolland shared a few artistic tips to maximize space both indoors and outdoors of their property.

LIGHT COLORS

“When it comes to small spaces, I’d always advise DIYers to work with light-toned colours as the paler the shade, the more likely it is to reflect light,” he said.

These reflections can create the “illusion of space” and elevate a small, dim space into an environment that feels “airy and less confined.” 

“Try to avoid crisp, bright whites as although they can add brightness to a space, they can often give a clinical and harsh feel,” he added.

He recommended keep the elements in mind when interior designing.

“Crisp, clean whites are much more likely to show damage and dirt, which can quickly detract from the desirable goal of making a tranquil, enjoyable space,” he said.

As another option, he suggested opting for earthier muted tones like light pastel greens, peaches and yellows.

Some of his favorite shades from The Paint Shed’s selection for spring and summer, would be Teresa’s Green and Tallow from Farrow and Ball’s Exterior Masonry range.”

GLOSSY PAINT

When designing your outdoor balcony, Rolland said paint with a high-gloss finish can be a great option.

“If applied correctly, it not only creates an eye-catching finish, but it can really reflect light, almost like a mirror,” he said.

He explained this type of paint is best used on metal surfaces like railings to visually enhance the size of the space, without being too overwhelming.

He recommended soft neutral shades in a formula to complement furniture and design elements in similar tones, like Zinsser’s Allcoat Exterior Gloss Solvent Based.

They can work together to “achieve a cohesive and visually expansive effect.”

MIRRORS

The paint expert revealed another great solution to visually expand a small balcony.

The design detail reflects light and can create the illusion of depth.

“We’d advise DIYers to consider adding either a rustic, larger mirror or a series of smaller mirrors on one of the balcony walls,” he said.

The item bounces natural light around the space to make it feel more spacious than it is.

Home stylist Jade Oliver also has a few tricks of her own to make small spaces feel bigger in your home.

She recommended opting for glass doors where possible, so the room can easily blend into eachother.