How to Make a Room Look Bigger Using Lighting

Making a small room appear larger is a common design challenge, but did you know that the right lighting can be a game-changer? At BHS, we understand the transformative power of lighting in home décor. By strategically using light, you can create an illusion of space, making even the cosiest of rooms feel more expansive. In this blog, we’ll explore expert tips on how to use lighting to make any room look bigger.

Maximise Natural Light

Natural light is one of the most effective ways to make a room appear larger. Rooms flooded with sunlight feel airy and open. To maximise natural light, use light, sheer curtains or blinds that can be pulled back fully during the day. If privacy is a concern, consider frosted window films that allow light in while keeping prying eyes out.

For rooms with limited natural light, consider placing small accent mirrors or mirrored accessories opposite windows. Mirrors reflect natural light throughout the space, enhancing the brightness and creating an illusion of depth.

Layer Your Lighting

A single overhead light can make a room feel flat and cramped. To add dimension, consider layering your lighting. This involves using multiple light sources at different heights and positions throughout the room.

Start with ambient lighting as the foundation. This can be achieved through ceiling lights, chandeliers, or recessed lighting. Next, add task lighting for specific areas like reading nooks or workspaces—think table lamps or floor lamps. Finally, incorporate accent lighting to highlight architectural features, artwork, or plants. Wall sconces or LED strips work well for this purpose.

At BHS, we offer a wide range of lighting options to help you achieve the perfect layered look, from elegant chandeliers to modern floor lamps.

Use Light Colours and Reflective Surfaces

The colours you choose for your lighting fixtures and lampshades can also impact how big a room feels. Light-coloured shades and fixtures reflect more light, brightening the room and enhancing the sense of space. Opt for white, cream, or pastel shades that complement your room's colour palette.

In addition, consider using reflective surfaces in your lighting design. Metallic fixtures, glass, and mirrored surfaces can bounce light around the room, amplifying the brightness and making the space feel larger.

For example, a polished chrome chandelier or a lamp with a mirrored base styled on a reflective surface can serve as both a light source and a statement piece, reflecting light beautifully and opening up the space.

Highlight Vertical Spaces

Drawing attention to the height of a room can make it feel more spacious. Vertical lighting techniques, such as uplighting, can create the illusion of higher ceilings and a grander space.

Wall-mounted up lights or tall floor lamps that direct light upwards are perfect for this. They cast light on the ceiling, lifting the gaze and making the room feel taller. Another great option is to use pendant lights or chandeliers with adjustable heights. By hanging them a bit lower, you can create a visual contrast that emphasises the room's height.

Avoid Harsh Shadows

Harsh shadows can make a room feel smaller by creating stark contrasts and breaking up the space. To avoid this, ensure that your lighting is evenly distributed throughout the room.

Use diffused lighting sources, such as lamps with frosted glass shades or LED panels with built-in diffusers, to spread light softly and evenly. Position lights strategically so that they fill in any dark corners, eliminating shadows and making the room feel more open.

Is Your Room Feeling More Spacious Already?

Lighting is a powerful tool in interior design, and when used correctly, it can significantly impact how spacious a room feels. By maximising natural light, layering your lighting, and choosing the right fixtures, you can create a bright, open, and inviting space, no matter the size of the room.

Explore our extensive collection at BHS to find the perfect lighting solutions that will make your home feel larger and more welcoming and check out more BHS blog posts here to fuel your home inspo! Alternatively, you can head over to our socials @BHS_UK for more gorgeous imagery, influencer collaborations, and the occasional giveaway.