CREATING SPACE IN YOUR BEDROOM WITH COLOUR AND SHAPE

Light colours create space, and obviously, light. If you have a small room, or one that doesn’t receive much natural light, painting it a lighter color will instantly create a sense of space.

Painting the ceiling of a room darker will lower it, and shorten a tall, lanky space. This look is strengthened further by extending the ceiling color down the wall to a picture rail or Scotia. This can be useful in disproportionately small rooms with tall ceilings, to balance the space. It can also create a cozy feeling of warmth.

Coupling the dark ceiling, continued onto the wall with a dark floor will visually lower the ceiling

and bring them closer together. But be careful, as this choice can create a slightly claustrophobic feeling if not done thoughtfully.

If you have a small but fat room, a cool color on the end wall and warm, dark colors on the side walls will make the room appear narrower and deeper. This can be balanced by using the dark color on the bedspread or wall hangings on the dark walls in the lighter walls hues.

The opposite can be achieved by painting the end wall a dark shade and the side walls lighter. This dark colour will advance as you enter the room, making it appear shorted.

Dark colors on the lower part of the wall will draw the eye down, giving it the appearance of a wider room.

Shape can also be changed with wall patterning effects.

A vertical pattern will create height, drawing the eye up, ideally towards a light or white colored ceiling.

Horizontal patterns, especially coupled with a light colored back wall will make the room look long and spacious.

Don’t underestimate the effects of flooring either. The direction of a linear floor can have a big effect on the shape of a room. Carpet and tiles, especially those laid on the diagonal can increase the appearance of your floor space. Whereas dark flooring with a light colored rug will decrease floor space appearance.

Often overlooked by amateurs is the base of your color. For instance, white is not just white. Very light sunny rooms would need a white with a grey base, to reduce any possible glare, whereas a darker room would need a warmer base.

Don’t forget the effect furnishings can have on your space. Use accents or a shade of your chosen color in cushions, bedspreads, artwork or whatever takes your fancy to add balance and continuity to your room.

Creating a whole new space with a few simple color changes is easy if you know the tricks. Buy some test pots and start making the most of your bedroom space, no matter how big or small it is.