Interiors
Creating a lighter and bigger space in your box room in five easy ways
By Matthew Currington, Technical Director,
Many British homes have a box room, but the downside of course is in the very name, it’s tiny and quite like living in a box…But, thankfully there are some clever ways to make the space feel bigger, lighter and less boxy.
Make use of the mirror effect
Many people may be hesitant to place a large mirror in a small box room, especially when wall space feels limited. However, mirrors have the amazing ability to create the illusion of additional space.
Most box rooms have at least one window, and the key to enhancing the room's perceived size is to position large mirror panels on a wall opposite or adjacent to the window.
This placement maximises the light and brightens the room, reflects the outside space and makes the room feel more open. If you prefer a more decorative option, a large, framed mirror will work well, though it will protrude slightly from the wall, taking up a bit more space.
Optimise vertical space
Box rooms tend to be one of two things, a study or the youngest’s bedroom. In both situations, using vertical space is the best way to make the space feel more dynamic and less cramped.
In a study, maximise vertical wall space by installing floating shelves for files, books, and stationery, and line them with fairy or strip lighting to brighten the room and reduce shadows, which can make it feel smaller.
Avoid bulky desk or floor lamps that steal valuable space; instead, use wall sconces to provide ample lighting without needing large lamp bases and shades. This approach keeps the room uncluttered while ensuring it's well-lit and functional.
Skip the central overhead light, as it’s out of style, and instead opt for cosy ambient lighting from multiple sources like wall sconces or fairy/strip lights. If the room is for a young child, consider a mezzanine bed to free up floor space, allowing for hanging storage and drawers underneath.
Try minimalism
In a small box room, lighting should be both functional and unobtrusive. Wall-mounted uplighters and downlighters are excellent choices for creating the illusion of height and expanding the feel of the room. Uplighters direct light upwards, making the ceiling appear higher, while downlighters can highlight specific areas, adding depth and interest to the space.
When selecting lighting fixtures, opt for minimalist designs that don’t dominate the room. Small slimline pendant lights, recessed spotlights, or flush-mounted ceiling lights can illuminate the space without adding visual clutter but providing bright light when it is needed. Keeping the lighting fixtures simple and sleek helps maintain a clean, open look while maximising the room's perceived size.
Avoid dark coloured walls
It’s best to steer clear of dark-coloured walls, as they can make the space feel even smaller and more enclosed. Dark tones absorb light, which can create a shadowy, confined atmosphere, reducing the room’s perceived size. Instead, opt for lighter, neutral colours like soft whites, pastels, or light greys. These shades reflect more natural and artificial light, helping to brighten the room and create a sense of openness.
If you want to add a touch of bold colour or personality, consider using darker tones as accents in smaller areas, such as painting half the wall or adding accessories, bedding, or artwork including these tones, while keeping the main walls light to maintain an airy feel. This way, you add character without compromising the room's spaciousness.
The Lighting Superstore
Decorate with cosy lighting
Lighting can be used in creative and unexpected ways to make this boxy space feel cosy yet open. Place soft LED strip lighting or under-bed lights beneath a raised bed for subtle illumination that keeps the room gently lit at night. It creates a warm, welcoming glow perfect for winding down without the need for space taking fixtures.
String fairy lights around the window frame and weave them into long, flowing curtains to brighten the window area and lift heavy fabrics, making them feel lighter and less imposing. By adding soft lighting to the curtains, the room instantly feels open and airy.
For an added touch, consider lining the top of any half-wall panelling with strip lighting. This softly illuminates the entire room, drawing the eye upward and making the ceiling feel higher, which can help create the illusion of more space.
Matthew Currington, Technical Director
