Here's How to Make Your Space Look Bigger (and Trick People Into Thinking It Actually Is)

Bed Bath & Beyond
Bed Bath & Beyond
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New York City dwellers like me will look up every possible hack to make our apartments look bigger. If you rent a small place in a big city, then you know having a lot of space is the ultimate luxury. That's why I've been researching ways to maximize my loft, and make it look open and clutter-free.

To make your space seem bigger, experts recommend selecting pieces, surfaces and materials that reflect light and increase the airiness in the different rooms. For example, sheer and neutral curtains will softly diffuse the light without feeling heavy. Mirrors will enhance your interior style while giving the impression of more space, and clear pieces of furniture will optimize the view beyond them. Read on for more tips (and the pieces you'll need) to trick people into thinking your place is huge.

Try Out Clear, Glass, or Lucite Furniture
amazon.com

Try Out Clear, Glass, or Lucite Furniture

Your room will look bigger with pieces you can see through because they can open up the view that lays beyond them.

This Safavieh Atka Coffee Table ($182, originally $514) will make a dramatic difference in your space, packing both practicality and a clear quality that'll trick the eyes into perceiving more space.

Benson Acrylic Cocktail Table
pier1.com

Benson Acrylic Cocktail Table

If you love gold accents, consider this Benson Acrylic Cocktail Table ($400, originally $540), which blends style and functionality well.

Hashtag Home Snatched Sled Coffee Table
wayfair.com

Hashtag Home Snatched Sled Coffee Table

This Hashtag Home Snatched Sled Coffee Table ($177) looks sturdy and spacious enough to share a meal with someone.

Curved Terrace Nightstand
westelm.com

Curved Terrace Nightstand

This Curved Terrace Nightstand ($199) will make an elegant addition to your bedroom.

Ayalisse End Table
wayfair.com

Ayalisse End Table

We love the discreet look of this Ayalisse End Table ($196).

Hang a Mirror (or 2) on the Wall
westelm.com

Hang a Mirror (or 2) on the Wall

Mirrors reflect light, so they're a great way of making your living room or bedroom feel more open. Don't be afraid to experiment with different shapes.

This Metal Framed Arched Wall Mirror ($299) will trick the eye into seeing more space.

Edgewood Store Asymmetrical Accent Wall Mounted Mirror
amazon.com

Edgewood Store Asymmetrical Accent Wall Mounted Mirror

I love the quirky shape of this Edgewood Store Asymmetrical Accent Wall Mounted Mirror ($60). Why not have fun with your mirrors?

Keep Your Floors Bare or Go For Minimal Rugs
rugsusa.com

Keep Your Floors Bare or Go For Minimal Rugs

While some people choose to ditch rugs completely to give the appearance of a bigger space, you can achieve the same effect by going for minimal and neutral rugs that can trick the eye.

This Textured Braided Off White Rug ($113, originally $246) is a great place to start.

Safavieh California Premium Shag Rug
amazon.com

Safavieh California Premium Shag Rug

This minimalist Safavieh California Premium Shag Rug ($188, originally $209) is perfect for any room. It also features a thick pile, which makes the texture even more plush.

Nuloom Edwin Soft and Plush Shag Rug
amazon.com

Nuloom Edwin Soft and Plush Shag Rug

Love a solid neutral piece that will bring your space together? Try this Nuloom Edwin Soft and Plush Shag Rug ($71 and up).

Keep the Clutter Hidden
westelm.com

Keep the Clutter Hidden

Space organizers that double as good-looking decor are the stylish answer to clearing out the clutter. Figure out ways to keep them out of view, behind doors, under your bed, or in discreet corners.

This Large Curved Basket with Handles ($56) will add texture to your space while keeping all your throw blankets in order.

Natural Bolga Nesting Basket
bloomist.com

Natural Bolga Nesting Basket

Store your favorite magazines in this Natural Bolga Nesting Basket ($68), and let part of them hang outside for an interesting look.

Open Up Your Windows (or Curtains)
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Open Up Your Windows (or Curtains)

Let the light in and add a sense of airiness with some sheer curtains. Go for lightweight, breezy fabrics that will softly diffuse the light.

This Devon Rod Pocket/Back Tab Sheer Window Curtain Panel ($20-$25) will instantly make your room feel lighter.

Madison Park Irina Rod Pocket Sheer Window Curtain Panel
bedbathandbeyond.com

Madison Park Irina Rod Pocket Sheer Window Curtain Panel

If you like a more textured option, check out this Madison Park Irina Rod Pocket Sheer Window Curtain Panel ($20-$24).

No.918 Emily Voile Rod Pocket Sheer Tab Top Window Curtain Panel
bedbathandbeyond.com

No.918 Emily Voile Rod Pocket Sheer Tab Top Window Curtain Panel

This No.918 Emily Voile Rod Pocket Sheer Tab Top Window Curtain Panel ($8-$10) will be a minimal addition to your bedroom.

Opt For Light and Neutral Materials
etsy.com

Opt For Light and Neutral Materials

Avoid heavy fabrics that tend to absorb light and add weight to any room. Instead, opt for materials like linen that keep everything feeling light and breezy.

I bet this Linen Throw Blanket ($88 and up) feels extremely soft.

Kesslyr Dean Henri Block Print Linen Throw
verishop.com

Kesslyr Dean Henri Block Print Linen Throw

I'm drawn to the shapes on this Kesslyr Dean Henri Block Print Linen Throw ($125).

Creative Women Openweave Cotton Throw
westelm.com

Creative Women Openweave Cotton Throw

This Creative Women Openweave Cotton Throw ($90) is a must for cozy Netflix nights.

Go For Low Furniture
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Go For Low Furniture

Pieces that are closer to the ground can optimize the space without making a room feel weighed down. Try to open up your space with a low sofa bed, lounge chair, or console table.

I love the earthy shade of this Clarklake Sofa Bed ($284).

Todd Chaise Sofa
castlery.com

Todd Chaise Sofa

This Todd Chaise Sofa ($1,659) is a minimalist's dream.

Criss Arm Loveseat
overstock.com

Criss Arm Loveseat

This Criss Arm Loveseat ($408) will make your space look unique.

Luka TV Stand
castlery.com

Luka TV Stand

This Luka TV Stand ($899) is not only great for movie nights, but it can also store your books and other daily items.