How to Make a Room Look Bigger with Furniture

Not all of us have the luxury of wide-open spaces, but that doesn’t mean your home can’t feel spacious. With a few thoughtful furniture choices, even the smallest room can appear larger, brighter, and more open. At Tabula Rasa Furniture, we believe good design starts with intention — and making the most of your space is all about smart, stylish decisions.

Here’s how to make a room look bigger using furniture that’s both functional and beautiful.

1. Choose Furniture with Legs

One of the easiest ways to visually open up a room is by choosing raised furniture. Sofas, armchairs, and sideboards with visible legs allow light to flow underneath, creating a sense of airiness. The more floor you can see, the bigger your room will feel.

Our minimalist solid wood pieces at Tabula Rasa are designed with open, clean lines — perfect for this purpose.

2. Opt for Light or Natural Wood Tones

Dark furniture can make a small room feel heavy and closed in. Light-colored or natural wood tones reflect light and help brighten the space. Ash, birch, and light oak are great choices that complement a wide range of interiors without overpowering the room.

Pair your furniture with neutral walls and minimal décor for an effortless, spacious vibe.

3. Keep It Low Profile

Tall, bulky furniture takes up a lot of visual space. Instead, go for low-profile furniture that sits closer to the ground — it makes ceilings feel higher and rooms appear larger. Think low coffee tables, platform beds, or short-backed chairs that give your eye more breathing room.

4. Use Multi-Functional Pieces

In smaller rooms, every piece should work hard. Look for furniture that does double duty, like a bench with storage, a coffee table with shelves, or nesting side tables that can be tucked away when not in use.

Multi-purpose furniture helps reduce clutter and maximizes function — which naturally makes your room feel more open.

5. Glass, Mirrors, and Reflective Surfaces

While not traditional wood furniture, using glass-top tables or mirrored accents can enhance the feeling of space. Glass tables almost disappear visually, while mirrors reflect light and make a room feel twice its size. Even furniture with glossy finishes can bounce light around and give the illusion of a bigger room.

6. Mind the Scale

Oversized furniture may look cozy, but it can dominate a small room. Always measure your space and choose furniture that's in proportion to the room. A well-sized loveseat or a compact dining set often works better than trying to squeeze in full-scale pieces.

Final Thoughts

Making a room look bigger doesn’t require a renovation — just thoughtful furniture selection and smart layout. By choosing pieces with open legs, light wood tones, multi-functional features, and clean lines, you can completely transform how your space feels.

Explore Tabula Rasa’s handcrafted furniture designed to make the most of every square foot — without compromising on quality or style.
Shop now and start designing your space with purpose.