How to Make a Small Apartment Feel Larger: 5 Ways

If you have a small apartment, it's worth thinking about how to make it visually more spacious right at the stage of wall finishing — and then you won't have to try to expand the space using only furniture and accessories.

Light tones

The most obvious method that always works 100%. But there are a few nuances. First, to visually expand the room, choose main furniture and accessories in tone — and then add a few accent items to prevent the space from looking 'flat'.

Second, in a monochromatic interior, it's very important to play with textures: for example, paint one part of the wall and decorate another part with decorative panels or textured finishes.

Design by Olga Boytsova

Accent wall

Highlight one wall not only with texture but also in color. This technique helps divert attention from the small area, making the space deeper and more interesting. You can decorate one wall with printed wallpaper or paint it in a contrasting shade.

Design by Anna Rims

Even more effective are finishes with a silk effect — such options exist, for example, from the Italian manufacturer Loggia in the Montenapoleone Vanesia, Velluto Florentino and other collections. Let's take a closer look at them.

Montenapoleone

EffectSilk Fabric

Damask

Type of FinishWear-resistant

In a silver base

ApplicationTwo layers with a kelma

Colored according to the catalog

Montenapoleone Fabric Effect Finish, Loggia

EffectSilk

Noble, worn

Type of FinishDelicate

With silver or golden shimmer

ApplicationTwo layers with a brush

Colored according to the catalog

Vanesia Fabric Effect Finish, Loggia

EffectFlorentine Silk

Velvety

Type of FinishDelicate

With silver or golden shimmer

ApplicationTwo layers

With a kelma or spatula. Colored according to the catalog

Velluto Florentino Fabric Effect Finish, Loggia

Such finishes are an excellent option if you want to achieve a luxurious look for your interior while saving money. In addition to being much cheaper than fabric wallpapers, their application is also significantly less expensive.

One important feature: some silk stuccos like Montenapoleone contain real fibrous fiber, meaning it’s not just a fabric imitation but actual silk on the walls. Fibrous fiber in the material composition not only gives it a luxurious appearance but also helps prevent micro-cracks in walls, which is very important for new constructions.

And most importantly — the decorative finish can even be applied by yourself. To do it correctly, simply attend a free masterclass — Loggia regularly organizes such events.

Glossy or semi-matte surfaces

Just like mirrors, a favorite trick of designers for small apartments. Glossy walls and facades reflect light, making any interior brighter and the room appear more spacious.

The key is not to overdo it: too much gloss can make the space uncomfortable. Therefore, glossy surfaces, glass and mirrors work best when combined with other, more 'warm' textures — matte finishes, natural fabrics, ceramics. Another option is to choose semi-matte finishing, such as semi-matte paint.

Design by Andrey Barinov

Doors in the Wall Tone

Hidden doors also help visually expand the area — since no wall surface is broken, the room immediately looks more spacious. This solution can be implemented using wallpaper, paint, or any other materials — it depends on your creativity.

Design by Alena Chekalina
Design by Dasha Ukhlinova

Wallpaper with Perspective or Large Art

Compact furniture and small decor don’t always help make a room visually larger — often the effect is opposite. Especially when it comes to wall decoration: don’t be afraid of large, vibrant prints, big paintings and posters.

And all the above-mentioned techniques can look great together: see how designer Nika Vortyntseva combines textured surfaces, rich tones, wall art and a hidden door!

Design by Nika Vortyntseva

On the cover: Anna Rims’ Design Project