Optical Illusion Decor

Tricks to make a space seem bigger

■ Fewer and larger ornaments To guarantee a decluttered look, avoid having lots of small keepsakes out on display. Instead of having lots of little vases and ornaments on the hall console, stick to a small group of larger items, such as a vase, photo frame and interesting keepsake – all of which share a similar colour tone.

■ Lighten up Using lighter colours in your decor will reflect and amplify light, making the room feel more spacious. If you want to add a splash of colour to the room, use light colours for the walls and floors and have a few colourful statement pieces of furniture.

■ Use the height Install bookcases and kitchen cabinets that run all the way up to the ceiling. You’ll create a continuous line and have the perfect storage space for those items you need but don’t use regularly. ■ Stripes for more space Just as vertical stripes on clothing may make you look taller, stripes on a rug will make a room appear longer in the direction the stripes are oriented.

■ Tricks for hiding tech Place an unsightly WiFi router or modem inside a hollowed-out book to keep it out of view.

■ Half-paint for height Paint the bottom half of walls a darker colour than the top (try white) to define your room’s shape.

■ Create an impression of spaciousness You don’t have spend money to get more space – think glass tables, ceiling to floor curtains and cleverly placed mirrors.