Bigger isn’t always better. In fact, nowadays, more and more people are opting for smaller spaces that offer better convenience, comfort and luxury rather than purchasing or renting bigger homes that don’t offer nearly as many perks and benefits.

This is especially true in urban landscapes, like Dubai, where younger city dwellers would rather have the style, functionality and amenities of an apartment that’s located in a well-connected, built-up area where they can easily access everything they need within reach of their home.

That being said, it can be tricky to fit out and design for a small space. If not done well, you could end up with a cluttered home that leaves you feeling claustrophobic. But when done right, it’ll leave you wondering why anyone would ever live in a gigantic house in the first place.

Without further ado, take a look at this list of our favourite design ideas, tips and tricks that’ll maximise your small space.

1. Weave in reflective materials  

Reflective materials, such as white lacquered walls and glossy tiles, are the perfect way to maximise the amount of light entering the room. The high-shine materials are will generate the same effect as a mirror, bouncing light around the room and making for an airier, lighter space.

2. Try out pocket doors

Sliding pocket doors are the perfect solution for those who live in smaller spaces that lack the wall space for a full swing door. They slide right into the wall when not being used, taking up much less space than a conventional swinging door.

Consider incorporating pocket doors with glass windows that allow for shared light to flow throughout the space while also creating separation between two different spaces for maximum effect.

3. Opt for a smaller dining table

Having a small dining table might sound and even look strange at first, but trust us, small round tables aren’t only for breakfast nooks – especially in a tiny space. We suggest ditching the giant dining table in favour of some extra space by downsizing to a small, round dining table instead.

We suggest opting for a bespoke table specially made to your specifications and space. This is can be done by hiring a joinery professional to create your perfect piece.

4. Express yourself throughout your home

Limited space means you won’t be able to display all your favourite items and extra décor. There is a solution to this, however – beautify everything. From the fridge and other bulky appliances to the cupboards and walls, every surface is a design opportunity that can be dressed up in removable wallpaper.

5. Hide your TV set and other electronics

If your living room is also your family room, dining room and more, then here’s a neat trick to help you easily switch between different situations. Purchase a credenza or have a bespoke piece made that can hide your TV and other electronics – including that PS5 or Xbox.

6. Choose adaptable furniture

In a small space, you need your furniture to work for you. This means that you’ll need to put a lot of thought into which pieces you purchase, as they’ll need to do double duty. Try to choose pieces that can serve multiple purposes in a single space. For example, find a table that can function as both a desk and a dining table, or a deep sofa that can double as a guest bed.

7. Scale your home accordingly

Not every small, open-plan space will be optimally designed, but that doesn’t mean you need to give up on making it functional. There are always ways to work around the shortfalls. For instance, if your kitchen doesn’t island or anything to separate it from blending into the living room, consider using a tall wooden table that provides extra counter space for cooking, as well as functions as a two-top dining table and divider between rooms.

8. Neutral tones work wonders 

Incorporate neutral tones in your small home to create the illusion of more space. Calm, even-toned rooms fool the eye into thinking the space is more spacious than they really are. Be sure to add a variety of textures to keep the space from falling flat.

9. Customise your storage solution

A fit out specialist can help you tailor bespoke built-ins, storage nooks and furniture to utilise every sliver of space in your home for more storage. By incorporating customised storage as part of the walls, you won’t lose nearly as much valuable square footage, while extra storage under a bench will come in very handy.

10. Make use of all available surface space 

Every available surface area in your small home should be utilised for maximum functionality and aesthetics. Consider extending the windowsill or adding floating shelves in key areas to create extra storage space for décor, lighting and other essentials when there’s no room for an extra table.

11. Purchase bigger furnishings 

Yes, you read that right. The key here is to use bigger but fewer furnishings around your home. This means that you should fit out your small space with only a few large-scale pieces, as opposed to a smorgasbord pint-size furniture, to provide a grander feel.

Top tip: Don’t push up all your furniture against the wall to maximise space. Instead, create space behind the furniture to make the room look wider than it is.

12. Start thinking vertically 

The space between the tops of furniture is perfectly good space that is going to waste. And in a home where every square foot counts, you can’t afford to not think vertically. Instead, take bookcases and cabinets all the way to the top or hang and mount décor elements to make the room feel higher.

13. Incorporate a partial glass wall 

Make your tiny home feel more spacious by tearing down walls and swapping them for partial, glass ones to open up views and connect adjacent spaces for a more light, airy feel.

14. Good lighting is key 

As always, good lighting is the secret to making any space look bigger than it actually is. This is especially important in smaller, cramped rooms, like a bathroom with a tiny window.

How can Contractors.Direct help?

If you want to enhance your tiny space with any of the above design ideas, then you’ll need the help of a professional interior designer and fit out contractor who possesses the necessary skills and experience to deliver your dream house.

Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place.

Contractors.Direct offers a curated database of thoroughly vetted, quality contractors, interior designers and interior architects who can bring your vision to life, on time and on budget. Get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to connect you with the right people for the job.