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For many, a small home, apartment, mobile home, or condo is home. While an intimate feeling is nice, there is such a thing as “too intimate.” A room with too many things in it can start to close in on you so that you feel you’re always climbing over things to get where you are going.

Luckily, there are tons of solutions for opening up smaller spaces. You can make your tiny room appear twice as big by simply following the tips below.

Create a Balance of Large and Small
A common misperception many have is that small accents and accessories should be used in small rooms. Although some tiny decorating pieces aren’t a problem, if you use too many, it will just add to the small, cluttered look. The best approach to use here is to create a balance of large and small. This will eliminate that messy, cluttered look, all while helping to create interest in the décor.

Light Up the Room!
Does your small room look dark and dreary? Light it up! Any heavy curtains or other window coverings that block the light should be removed. Venetian blinds or another style of window covering allow you to open up the window completely, so you always have the option of letting sunshine spill in and brightening the mood. Place lamps strategically around the room. Also, you’ll want the maximum amount of light in the evenings, so use lamp shades that are light in color. If you like the look of curtains, choose something sheer.

Remember—Less Is More
Large, oversized furniture and large paintings are perfect for smaller rooms. Although you want large pieces like a tv stand or entertainment center, you do want less of them. For instance, a large sofa and recliner will give you seating space, while not overcrowding the room. For the walls, choose a single large portrait or painting, rather than groups of smaller pictures. Then you’ll end up with a room that, although small, feels airy and spacious.

Make Good Use of What Space You Have to Work With
You’ll often see mission bookshelves, lamps, and other items placed in the middle of the wall. Try using your corner space instead. By freeing up more area in the middle of the room, you’ll make it appear larger. Unless the layout just doesn’t work, use the corners. Plants will work great in a corner as well.

Mirrors Double the Size of a Room
This is a trade secret that’s been known for decades: mirrors can visually help create a larger looking space. You might place mirrored tiles across an entire wall or use one large mirror on a wall instead to create a focal point. The reflection of your small room in that mirror will make the space look double the size!

Don’t Forget Color
If you’re looking to make your tiny space look bigger, don’t forget color. While white is great, you might also consider using bright greens, blues, and peaches. When you keep the shades light, color will work to add interest and depth to the space. Of course, you can always create an accent wall, painting a single wall a bright vibrant shade to either blend or contrast with the colors in your furnishings and accents.

When it comes to a small space, it’s always important to remember that less is always more. So do away with those collections of small knick-knacks and use singe items instead in your décor. It’s amazing how a room can open up right before your eyes when you mix and match a few small pieces with several large ones.