Is your home long and narrow? This layout style can be very common in urban and older neighborhoods as well as townhouses and condos. But it comes with its own unique interior design challenges that you must overcome in order to create a great home you'll love for years. So, what should you do to maximize your narrow rooms? Here are five key tips.
1. Avoid Boxes. Narrow rooms can easily end up looking like boring rectangular boxes if you're not careful. Avoid this problem by placing furniture in more unusual layouts, such as angles and circles, from the viewpoints of those entering and exiting. While you may place some furnishings up against the walls, make use of interior space to break up the square feeling.
2. Use Slim Furnishings. Large, overstuffed, or oversized furniture can make the narrow walls feel even more closed in. Make use of slim styles of furniture in everything from sofas and armchairs to tables and cabinetry. Reduce the footprint of furniture by opting for narrow, small legs and floating shelves, cabinets, or tables that don't appear to reach the floor at all. You'll make rooms more functional and more attractive.
3. Add Lighting. Natural lighting is the best way to make walls feel farther apart and a room grander. If possible, include natural lighting from sliding glass doors, windows, and skylights. If you can open up the ceiling by raising it, this will also add natural light. If boosting sunlight isn't an option, such as for a rented town home, bring in better lighting options using sconces, hanging pendant lamps, and floor lighting.
4. Keep It Simple. Don't overfill a narrow room. While you don't want the space to feel empty, putting too many pieces in it will cause the room to seem claustrophobic. If the room must pull double duty — like in a small home's main living room — try to utilize multi-functional furniture instead of more furniture. For a good rule of thumb in any existing room, take a look at your furnishings and consider removing about 1/4 of what is there.
5. Use Vertical Space. As with any small room, good use of vertical space is key. Narrow rooms often feature tall walls, so use this wall space well. Add floating shelves and taller cabinets or racks for storage. In narrow bedrooms, place children's beds above the play area or opt for beds with storage drawers underneath. Hang pots and pans from the kitchen ceiling. And use artwork to draw the eye upward rather than horizontally.
No matter how many of these design hacks you put into practice, your narrow home will look and feel larger. Want more ideas? Seek the help of experienced townhouse interior designer services.
