Smart Color and Design Tips from the Pros at Michael’s Painting
Have a small bedroom, hallway, or living room that feels a little too cramped? Believe it or not, a fresh coat of paint can work wonders when it comes to opening up tight spaces and making your home feel more spacious and airy.
At Michael’s Painting, we help homeowners across Middle Tennessee transform small spaces every day—with nothing more than a smart paint plan and a professional touch. Here’s how you can do the same.
1. Choose Light, Reflective Colors
Light colors reflect more natural light, which helps make any room feel larger and more open. Some top choices include:
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Soft whites and creams
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Pale grays
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Light blues
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Cool beiges
Pro tip: Cooler tones often recede visually, helping walls feel farther away, while warmer tones tend to feel cozier and more enclosed.
2. Use One Color for Walls and Trim
Painting the trim, molding, and even the ceiling the same (or a similar) color as the walls reduces contrast and visual breaks—making the space feel continuous rather than chopped up.
3. Create Vertical or Horizontal Illusions
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Vertical stripes or accent walls with tall patterns can draw the eye upward, adding a sense of height.
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Horizontal lines can make a narrow room feel wider.
For a subtle effect, try tone-on-tone stripes using the same color in matte and semi-gloss finishes.
4. Go Glossy in the Right Places
A slightly higher sheen (like satin or semi-gloss) on the walls or ceiling can bounce light around the room. Just be careful—too much shine can highlight imperfections, so it’s best for smooth surfaces.
5. Stick to a Minimal Color Palette
Using too many contrasting colors can visually clutter a small space. Stick to two or three cohesive tones and carry them throughout the room. Neutral base colors with a soft accent wall or trim can add just enough interest without closing in the room.
6. Don’t Be Afraid of White Ceilings
While accent ceilings are trendy, in smaller spaces, a clean white ceiling often does the best job of making the room feel tall and open. Pair with white or light-colored crown molding for an elegant finish.
Local Experience You Can Count On
At Michael’s Painting, we know how to work with the architecture and lighting of homes throughout Murfreesboro, Columbia, Spring Hill, and beyond. Whether you’re updating a studio apartment or refreshing a small guest room, we’ll help you choose colors and finishes that expand your space without breaking your budget.
Want to Make Your Home Feel Bigger?
Let us help you create a brighter, more open space with color!