A few minor changes to the interior of a house or flat can easily create the illusion of space in smaller properties.

"Creating a sense of space doesn’t have to be difficult, require an interior design degree or be inordinately expensive," says Tracy French, provincial manager of MortgageSA.

Instead a couple of simple measures should do the trick: like for example using bright and lightly coloured walls — which will not only lift up the whole room but also give the impression of height. Dark colours, says French, absorb light and shrink already small areas.

Simple colours

However, when bringing colour to your home, beware of not creating too much 'busyness'. As a rule of thumb instead keep the scheme simple and monochromatic.

Continuity and flow also comes from choosing and matching pieces with similar appeal. The effect is soothing while nothing jumps out at the viewer.

"Use as much natural light as possible," says French, with natural light penetrating an interior space up to seven metres.

Another way of maximising the effect of light is to take advantage of mirrors, as they create depth by replicating light and also by creating the illusion of a doubled room.

Use of mirrors

To make the most of this, don’t only use hanging mirrors but also mirrored surfaces such as counters and coffee tables, French says. "To generate volume at night, scatter a few lamps throughout the room," she adds. For this, you can also use a mix of lights such as downlighters or standing and desk lamps which will brighten up the room and bounce different waves of light off different surfaces.

The optimum use of furniture is also a good way to create space.

"Throw out anything that is not absolutely necessary, which includes bulky and dark furniture, even if it did belong to your grandmother," says French. "You may find removing even one item creates far more space."

Streamlined furniture

Instead try to invest in simple, streamlined furniture, including pieces that have legs and are not boxy. Not only will you have created space but also the functionality of the room improves as well.

On the same note, choose furniture that serves more than one function, such as a couch that turns into a bed. Storage boxes can be used as counter space or form part of a coffee table. And be careful not to use pieces that take up too much height, as this crowds a room.

Placing furniture along the walls will automatically create more space in the centre of the room. Clear the walkways and keep the floor clear; if you can see from one room to another, it immediately opens up the entire space.

"Focus on living within a corner, leaving the furthest areas from the door open and uncluttered," she says.

Window dressings

Also try using large carpets, which are good to define the space as they create an impression of generousness and continuity. But beware: make sure they're not heavily patterned as plain textures will work best.

Finally, keep the window dressings simple.

"Blinds and curtains should be hung from midway between the ceiling and the top of the window to make sure that these are not too voluminous for the space they are in," French says.