12 Weird but Genius Things That Made My Small Space Feel Bigger Instantly

It is a bit weird but it works to open up space!

Minimalist wooden desk and chair against vertical wood paneling | Photo by Diego Marín

Living in a small space doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style or comfort. In fact, tight quarters often force us to get more creative. Over the past year, I’ve tested dozens of home hacks, but only a handful actually made my space feel noticeably larger—without knocking down any walls. Whether you’re decorating a small apartment, studio, or a tight room, these weird-but-genius ideas can change everything.

1. Mounted Swing Arm Lamps Instead of Table Lamps

Ditching bulky bedside or desk lamps and installing swing arm sconces gave me back valuable surface space. Plus, they add a custom, designer feel with minimal effort.

2. Mirrors on the Closet Doors (But Not the Ones You Think)

Large arched mirror beside a bed reflecting light in a neutral modern bedroom

Instead of the dated full-length panels, I used two oversized arched mirrors—leaned and secured—on closet doors. It reflects more light and makes the room look layered, not builder-basic.

3. Low Furniture = Higher Ceilings

Soft green sofa against matching green walls in an open plan living space

Swapping my high-back couch for a low-profile version created the illusion of taller ceilings. Combine it with high curtains and boom—vertical magic.

4. Matching the Wall Color to Large Furniture Pieces

Wood paneled wall with a matching table and chair set

Painting the wall behind my sofa the same dark green tone as the upholstery made the whole setup feel cohesive and less “cut up.”

5. Floating Nightstands

Minimalist floating nightstand beside a twin bed with playful pink decor

One of the best visual declutter tricks. Floating nightstands free up floor space and create a light, airy feel. Add a sconce above and it’s chef’s kiss.

6. Curtains Hung at Ceiling Height (Even for Small Windows)

Bright yellow ceiling height curtains in a midcentury living room

This one’s a classic but worth repeating. Hanging curtain rods just below the ceiling line and letting the fabric drop all the way down creates instant grandeur.

7. Glass or Acrylic Furniture

Glass top coffee table in a modern living room with a dark gray sofa.

I swapped in a glass coffee table and never looked back. It “disappears” visually and lets other textures (like my rug) shine.

8. Two Rugs Instead of One

Layered rugs one patterned and one woven jute over light wooden flooring

Layering a small jute base with a smaller, patterned rug on top made my layout feel intentional—not cramped. Bonus: It zones the space subtly.

9. Vertical Shelving in Unexpected Corners

Tall narrow bookshelf filled with colorful books beside a closet door

That dead zone behind my door? It now has a tall skinny bookshelf. Corners are your friend.

10. All One Color… Kinda

Modern living room showcasing a clutter free design without table lamps

When I made everything in my entryway warm beige—walls, hooks, bench—it blurred the boundaries and made it feel more expansive. Keep accessories textural to avoid flatness.

11. Big Art on Small Walls

Large framed classical art above a beige sofa in a softly lit living room

Contrary to popular belief, one large piece of art makes a room feel bigger, not smaller. Just leave space around it to let it breathe.

12. Let There Be (Warm, Layered) Light

Warm ambient lighting in a living room with a sofa wall sconces and shelf

Overhead lighting is the enemy of intimacy. I added under-shelf LED strips, floor uplights, and battery-powered sconces for warmth that stretches the eye.

Conclusion

Sometimes, making a small space feel big has nothing to do with square footage—and everything to do with tricking the eye. These hacks might sound a little unconventional, but they worked like magic in my own home. The key? Layering light, streamlining shapes, and leaning into visual softness. You don’t need more room. You just need better ideas.