When it comes to interior design, small spaces present one of the biggest opportunities.
With clever design, the right lighting, and thoughtful layout choices, even the most compact room can feel open, airy, and full of character.
At Dragonville Interiors, we’ve been designing fitted kitchens, bedrooms and other dream spaces across Durham and the North East for over 40 years, and we’ve learned a thing or two about how to make every inch count.
Here are six proven ways to make a small room feel bigger, brighter, and beautifully designed.
1. Light Is Everything
Lighting can completely change how a space feels.
Natural light should always be maximised… think pale window treatments and reflective surfaces that help bounce light around.
When daylight fades, well-placed LED strips, under-cabinet lighting, or integrated feature lighting can keep the room feeling spacious and warm.
At Dragonville Interiors, our design team can help you plan a lighting layout that complements your furniture and your space, not just illuminate it.
2. Keep Colours Simple and Cohesive
Light, neutral tones make a room feel calm and open, but that doesn’t mean avoiding colour.
Soft greys, warm whites, or pastel shades can visually expand the space while still adding depth and personality.
To tie everything together, choose a consistent colour palette across furniture, walls, and flooring… it helps the eye flow naturally through the room without interruption.
3. Use Fitted Furniture for Maximum Efficiency
Free-standing furniture can make a small space feel cluttered.
Bespoke fitted furniture, on the other hand, uses every inch efficiently, no gaps, no wasted corners. Whether it’s a kitchen, a bedroom, or a study, our in-house team designs, builds, and installs made-to-measure furniture right here in Durham, ensuring the perfect fit for your home.
This not only adds valuable storage but also keeps the space feeling balanced.
4. Think Vertical
If you’re running short on floor space, look up.
Tall cabinetry, floating shelves, or overhead storage can make a big impact without crowding the room. In bedrooms, full-height wardrobes create a sleek, unified look, while in kitchens, extending cabinets to the ceiling draws the eye upward, making the room appear taller.
5. Add Mirrors and Gloss Finishes
Mirrors and reflective surfaces are classic space-enhancers for a reason… they create the illusion of depth.
Gloss finishes on cabinet doors, polished handles, and glass splashbacks all help light bounce around the room, giving it a larger and more luxurious feel.
6. Keep It Clutter-Free
Even the best design can feel cramped if clutter takes over.
That’s why thoughtful storage design is key… integrated drawers, pull-out units, and hidden compartments help keep everything tidy and out of sight.
A clear, well-organised space always feels more open and relaxing.
Conclusion
Small rooms don’t have to feel limiting.
With clever design and expert craftsmanship, you can transform compact spaces into comfortable, stylish, and practical parts of your home.
At Dragonville Interiors, our bespoke fitted furniture is designed and built in-house, ensuring every detail is perfectly tailored to you and your space.
Ready to see how we can help you make your small room feel bigger?
Visit our showroom in Durham or explore more inspiration online: www.dragonvilleinteriors.co.uk
