14 sep How to choose colors and materials in small spaces?
After collecting 301 images on Pinterest and Instagram, choosing the right colors and materials can become overwhelming. Many of these images are designed to sell a feeling, making you think, "This is what I want!" However, in reality, your space might be half the size, lacking natural light, and the cost of materials could exceed your budget by three times. So, what should you do?
1. Select two inspiration images for each function: Pick only two images for the kitchen, two for the bedroom, and two for the bathroom. Analyze the recurring materials, shapes, and colors.
2. In small spaces, keeping a consistent color palette helps make the rooms feel larger
So, if you notice light colors, natural materials, and a mix of square and round shapes in your images, that’s your starting point. But if you have selected pictures with dark moody colours and organic shapes, that is your starting point.
(And if you’ve chosen images that feature a multitude of colors, and just love color, go for it!)
Example 1:
Suppose you want to refresh your bedroom and have selected two pictures and a grey color scheme.
If it feels too cold, add warmer tones and textures.
If you feel it needs a touch of glam, you can incorporate copper, gold, brass or richer tones.
If you’re unsure about colors and materials, start with the most common options from your inspiration. This will help you create the space. If it feels too cold, add warmer tones and textures. If you find it reminiscent of the ’70s and boring, introduce richer colors and elements like copper, gold, or bronze for a more vibrant look.
3. Start with the foundational colors and materials you’ve identified and gradually add color, texture, and deeper tones. Don’t worry—paint can transform a room quickly, and accessories can change the vibe in just half an hour.
4. Do you find your mood changing daily? That’s completely understandable! Introduce with a different color on each side, curtains in different hues, and adjust the atmosphere with effective lighting.
5. Also, if you’re not completely happy with the result, don’t think everything has gone wrong. Sometimes, adjusting the amount of a specific color can make all the difference. It could be that the amount is what’s bothering you. Or maybe it’s the lack of texture in the materials, which can make the space feel flat and uninteresting. On the other hand, if there’s too much texture or if you’ve created a space that feels like a snow cabin with dark wood everywhere, don’t worry. Just add or remove a little until it feels right.
In small living spaces, it’s crucial to prioritize ventilation. If adequate airflow isn’t possible, choose materials that are resistant to dampness.
Same, same but different
Example 2: Adding a sofa in a deep blue tone and rich wood structure gives a different vibe than a light wood color, and adding yellow instead of red plus a black graphic coffee sign gives the room a younger feel.
Which choices make the room feel bigger?
Which choices make the room feel bigger? Use transparent furniture, such as chairs that are (semi)transparent with small legs, sofas with small feet, and furniture that is attached to the wall or ceiling. Also, maintain a consistent color palette throughout the space.
Be specific...!
For example, if you like white and black tiles and want to add a touch of pink in the hallway, and you also need hooks for jackets, here are two different possible outcomes:
Do you want the space to feel arty or disco-inspired? You like it shiny or matte? Be as specific as possible about the mood you’re trying to create before searching for paint, plants, or accessories.
Imagine telling your partner: “Hey, I really like green tiles for the bathroom.”
What you have in mind is something like this:
But your partner might picture something like this:
Or even this:
These are totally different vibes!
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