How Do I Make a Small Space Look Bigger?
Design tips from The Design Center in Orofino, Idaho
Living in a small home or cabin doesn’t mean you have to feel cramped. With a few smart design strategies, you can transform tight spaces into open, airy, and stylish rooms that feel much bigger than they really are.
At The Design Center in Orofino, Idaho, we help homeowners across Clearwater County and the surrounding areas make the most of every square foot. Here are our favorite expert tips to help you make your small space feel spacious.
1. Choose Light Colors
Light, neutral colors like soft whites, pale grays, and warm beiges reflect more light, making your space feel open and airy. Try painting your walls and ceilings the same light tone to eliminate harsh visual breaks and create a seamless look.
Local tip: Natural light is a big asset in homes around Orofino—maximize it with light wall colors and reflective surfaces.
2. Use Mirrors Strategically
Mirrors bounce light and create the illusion of depth. Place a large mirror across from a window or on a focal wall to visually expand the space. A mirrored backsplash in the kitchen or bathroom can also add sparkle without adding clutter.
3. Go Vertical
When floor space is limited, think up—not out. Use tall bookshelves, stacked cabinetry, or vertical shiplap to draw the eye upward and make the room feel taller. This is especially useful in Orofino homes with cozy layouts or cabin-style ceilings.
4. Keep Furniture Slim & Functional
Opt for furniture with clean lines and exposed legs, which create a sense of openness. Multi-functional pieces—like a storage ottoman or a bed with drawers—help keep clutter out of sight while saving space.
5. Stick to a Simple Color Palette
Too many competing colors or patterns can overwhelm a small space. Choose one or two complementary tones and repeat them throughout the room to create a cohesive, calming effect.
Pro tip: At The Design Center, we can help you select the perfect paint, flooring, and cabinetry finishes to maintain a unified palette from room to room.
6. Use Glass & Lucite
Glass coffee tables, lucite chairs, or open shelving units are visually lightweight and allow the eye to “travel through” them. They give function without taking up visual space—perfect for smaller living rooms and home offices.
7. Declutter & Go Custom
A small space needs thoughtful organization. Custom cabinetry and built-ins tailored to your needs can hide the mess, provide better storage, and give your home a polished look.
We specialize in custom design solutions for homes in Orofino, Pierce, Weippe, and beyond—no matter how big or small the space.
8. Let the Light In
Avoid heavy drapes and dark blinds that block sunlight. Instead, opt for sheer curtains or top-down-bottom-up shades that give you privacy without sacrificing natural light.
Create a Spacious Feel—No Matter the Square Footage
At The Design Center in Orofino, we believe every home—big or small—deserves smart, stylish design. Whether you're working with a cozy mountain cabin, a studio apartment, or a compact family home, our team can help you choose materials, finishes, and layouts that make your space feel open, bright, and beautifully livable.
Ready to make your small space feel bigger?
Stop by our showroom in Orofino, or call us to schedule a design consultation. We proudly serve homeowners across the Clearwater Valley and beyond.
Sincerely~ The Design Center of Orofino Idaho
