From favorite paint colors to specialized design advice, Benjamin Moore’s color and design experts have the answers to a common homeowner question: How do I make a small room look bigger and brighter?
Lighter paint colors like off-whites, light neutrals, pales, and pastels give the illusion of larger, brighter rooms. Here, we dive deeper into this topic with 5 specific painting techniques to make rooms look bigger, brighter, and more beautiful.
What Colors Make a Room Look Bigger?
“Airy blues and crisp white hues are ideal for small spaces,” says Molly Lynch, a Benjamin Moore color expert. “Blues recede, which can give the illusion of opening up a space,” she explains. A light shade of blue, like Smoke 2122-40, shown here on the ceiling, is ideal for dimmer spaces. How do you make a room without windows look brighter? “To brighten up a room that doesn't get a lot of natural light, consider a clean white paint with warm, sunny undertones like Swiss Coffee OC-45, Acadia White OC-38, and White Chocolate OC-127.”
Use Accent Wall Colors to Make a Room Look Bigger
“For smaller spaces, I always recommend using a bright color to create a focal point, says Hannah Yeo, Benjamin Moore color and design expert. “I then use lighter hues for the rest of the space. I also recommend minimal décor when it comes to smaller spaces.” Here, a red accent wall in Tomato Tango CSP-1145 instantly draws the eye’s attention and creates the illusion of depth. “In this kitchen, the off-white wall color and cabinets make the narrow space look wider and brighter,” Hannah adds.
Lighten Up Alcoves, Nooks and Windows
If you have windows tucked into dormers or alcoves, the right paint color can help brighten and heighten spaces, from furnished attics to cozy corners. “Consider a pale paint color for this type of space,” suggests Andrea Magno, Benjamin Moore color and design expert. “Paler colors work well because natural light will reflect from the surface, providing the impression of light.”
Opting for paint colors like Silken Pine 2144-50, Summer Shower 2135-60, and Raleigh Peach CW-205, pictured here, helps a room take on a lighter, airier look.
Opt for Soft, Yellow-Painted Walls
“Yellow is highly reflective, so it is great for spaces that lack natural light,” explains Sharon Grech, Benjamin Moore color and design expert and regular on Canada’s Cityline. Basem*nts, laundry rooms, or any windowless space can benefit from yellow paint colors, but be sure to follow these two top tips:
“Yellow is a happy, warm, & luminous color that lifts the spirits,” adds Sharon, “It lets the sun shine in, wherever it’s used.”
Selecting Sheen for Smaller Spaces
The right sheen can add light and depth to your room. Using a semi- or high-gloss can help enhance your space. Higher sheens are more reflective, giving the illusion of more light. Learn more about choosing a paint finish for your space. LEARN ABOUT SHEENS
Low Ceiling? Look on the Bright Side!
“With a low ceiling, the trick is to draw the eye up to create a sense of openness with an engaging, light color,” says Arianna Cesa, Benjamin Moore color and design expert. “It creates the illusion that the ceiling is higher.” In this dining room, Crystalline AF-485, paired with Pure White OC-64, presents a winning example.Adding wainscoting? Consider building it three-quarters up the wall, instead of the traditional halfway mark. This approach will add height and levity to any room.
Helpful Tip
To add height to any room, color expert Arianna recommends, “Try using soft pales on the upper part of the wall, and off-white paint colors on the lower part of the wall.” Great pairings for an airier, roomier look in any space include:
- Slip AF-605 paired with Atrium White OC-145
- Lookout Point 1646 paired with White Heron OC-57
- Soleil AF-330 paired with Mountain Peak White OC-121
Visualize Paint Colors Before You Buy
‘Trying on’ color at home in different lighting conditions is essential, whatever size your space is. Order paint color samples in our online store or from your local Benjamin Moore retailer. To test out paint colors immediately, use the video and photo visualizers found on our free Benjamin Moore Color Portfolio® app.
