Are you dealing with a space so small that you just cannot seem to get the decoration right? Are you moving to a new space where the rooms are smaller than what you currently have? Are you downsizing - from a large house to a condominium?

Decorating a small space can be a challenge...for the best of us. :-) However, there are some simple tricks to make the decorating process a tad easier. Your room CAN appear larger than it is. And don't forget the added benefit that comes with that - a space you can live in and love.

1. Paint colour can have a huge impact on the feel of a room - both for how small or large the room appears, and the mood in the room. For your small space to appear larger, it is wise to choose a light shade.

2. Make sure your furniture is not too large for the room - literally. That is, make sure you can actually enter the room and move around comfortably once in there. You may laugh...I have seen it happen.

3. Keep your fabric pattern and print choices to a minimum. Using a few solid colours in all of the room will give the space a more natural, peaceful flow. Keep the contrasts to a minimum.

4. Window coverings should not be in high contrast to the walls. If your window is the focal point of the room, you may want to choose a fabric with only a slight contrast to the walls. This will allow the window to remain the focal point without having the affect of making the room appear smaller. If you have privacy and a fabulous view at all times, using no curtains at all may be best.

5. Do not clutter the room. Limit the number of accessories you display. Do not fill your tables with knick-knacks. Leave empty spaces on bookshelves - they don't need to be completely full. Your company should be able to leave your house without having sore, overworked eyes :-)

6. Modern and contemporary furniture will work best. Any furniture with clean and simple lines will appear less busy to the eye. Victorian or highly ornate furniture with its detailing and curved lines, will act as an accessory itself - attracting too much attention.

7. Painting the walls a similar colour to some of the major pieces in the room will make the room appear that there is less furniture than there really is. Basically, maintaining a monochromatic colour scheme will open up the space.

8. Mirrors can be a great help in making a space appear larger. Placing one above a fireplace tricks your eye into seeing more than you actually see. If placed opposite a spectacular window view, you bring the outdoors indoors.

9. Contrary to what some might think, a few large pieces of furniture will work better than many smaller pieces. It is all about having less for your eye to see and process...ah, the psychology of interior decorating.

10. If you are still stuck, here are a few suggestions (and because I am at the number 10 tip, you get 3 tips in one).

a) Check out my Interior Designer/Decorator website for more information on small spaces. b) Find a good book on the subject. I have, on my site, provided you with some great books on small spaces. c) Even easier, but a bit more costly, find a good Interior Decorator/Designer to help you out and get that fabulous small space you want in a timely manner.

Oh, yes, I almost forgot, sit back, relax and enjoy your new small space!

Copyright 2006, Inspired Interiors by Shelly Whitney

AUthor - Shelly Whitney is an Interior Designer and Decorator with "funked-up flare" and a penchant for decorating on a budget. She employs "I can afford it" tips and tricks in most of her articles and projects. Visit her website, www.InspiredInteriors.ca for more hoem decorating tips, tricks, product reviews and unique projects.