Having ceilings that are 8-foot high doesn’t mean you have to give up on style or roominess. By using a few smart design strategies, you can design a home that has an open, welcoming, and incredibly stylish atmosphere.
Design an Open Layout
Consider an open layout to maximize room and flow. Removing a non-structural wall transformed the area in my studio, making it feel twice as big.
Go Minimalist
A minimalistic design can keep a space from feeling cramped. I’ve found that keeping decor simple and uncluttered allows each element to stand out beautifully.
Choose Vertical Garden Decorations
Introducing vertical garden features can bring a fresh, lively vibe while guiding the eye upwards. A vertical plant wall in my living room adds greenery and height without taking up floor space.
Use Clear Furniture
Clear furniture, like glass tables, can reduce visual clutter and make a room feel more open. In my dining area, a glass table helps keep a sense of flow and space.
Add Vertical Wall Detailing
Vertical wall detailing or wood trim can draw your attention upward, creating the appearance of height. In my home, I’ve used vertical shiplap in the entry to get this effect.
Select Bright Color Palettes
Choosing bright and neutral hues for your walls and ceiling can help make a room feel light and spacious, visually enlarging your space. I’ve found in my own apartment in Boston that delicate whites and beiges work wonders to visually expand a room.
Add Texture with Ceiling Designs
Think about adding subtle texture to the ceiling, such as tongue-and-groove or shiplap, to improve visual interest without overwhelming the space. This detail has added charm and warmth to otherwise plain ceilings in my home.
Use Short Furniture
Choose short furniture to keep the focus on height and openness. I’ve found that by choosing lower sofas and chairs, rooms feel more roomy and balanced.
Maximize Sunlight
Ensure your space is filled with sunlight by keeping windows unobstructed and using sheer drapes. In my own space, this strategy has helped make every room feel brighter and more inviting.
Place Mirrors Carefully
Mirrors can reflect light and create the illusion of depth, so place mirrors carefully to improve room dimensions. I’ve used a large mirror in my hallway to visually double its size.
Paint the Ceiling the Same Color as the Walls
Painting your ceiling the same color as your walls can make a continuous line, making the room appear bigger. This is one of my favorite strategies for keeping a consistent and expansive feeling.
Install Decorative Moulding
Despite what people think, decorative moulding can truly improve the height of an 8-foot ceiling when done well. I suggest choosing a moderate size and painting it to match the walls for a seamless appearance.
Hang Drapes High and Wide
Installing your drape rods closer to the ceiling and making them wider than your window frame can help make your ceilings seem taller. I am impressed with how this simple trick can add sophistication and height to any space.