What wall paint color to use to make a room seem bigger?
The colors you choose to paint your walls can have a significant impact on how big or small a room appears. Certain colors can create an illusion of spaciousness and depth, while others can make a room feel cramped and closed-in. By choosing the right colors, you can make even the smallest room feel more open and airy. Let's explore some of the wall colors that can make a room look bigger.
Light colors
Light colors are the go-to for making a room look bigger. These colors reflect light, which makes the room feel more open and spacious. White is a classic choice, but it can be stark and cold, so you might want to choose a warmer tone like Benjamin Moore's White Dove or Simply White. These colors have a warm undertone that adds some depth to the walls without making them look too sterile.
Other light colors that can make a room look bigger include pale shades of blue, green, or pink. Benjamin Moore's Gray Cashmere, Palladian Blue, and First Light are all excellent choices for creating a sense of openness in a room.
Neutrals
Neutral colors are versatile and can work with many different design styles. They also have a calming effect, which can make a room feel more spacious. Light shades of beige, gray, or taupe can create a warm and inviting atmosphere while still making the room appear larger. Benjamin Moore's Edgecomb Gray, Revere Pewter, and Classic Gray are great options for a neutral color scheme that can make a room look bigger.
Monochromatic
A monochromatic color scheme uses different shades of the same color to create a harmonious look. This can make a room appear larger because there are no contrasting colors to break up the space visually. The different shades of the same color create depth and interest without overwhelming the room. Benjamin Moore's Gray Owl, Stonington Gray, and Nimbus Gray are excellent choices for a monochromatic color scheme that can make a room look bigger.
Cool Colors
Cool colors like blue and green have a calming effect and can make a room feel more open and spacious. These colors are also versatile and can work with many different design styles. Benjamin Moore's Sea Salt, Harbor Gray, and Iceberg are great options for creating a cool color scheme that can make a room look bigger.
Accent Walls
While accent walls can be a great way to add visual interest to a room, they can also make a room appear smaller. If you want to create an accent wall, choose a light or neutral color that complements the other walls in the room. Benjamin Moore's Simply White or Gray Cashmere are excellent choices for an accent wall that can make a room look bigger.
Avoid Dark Colors
While dark colors can be dramatic and moody, they can also make a room feel cramped and closed-in. Dark colors absorb light, which can make a room feel smaller. If you want to use a dark color, consider using it as an accent rather than painting the entire room. Benjamin Moore's Black Pepper or Graphite are great choices for a bold accent wall that won't make the room feel smaller.
Paint the ceiling
Painting the ceiling the same color as the walls can create a seamless look that makes a room feel more spacious. This works particularly well with light or neutral colors. If you want to create a sense of height, consider painting the ceiling a slightly lighter shade than the walls. Benjamin Moore's White Dove or Simply White are great options.
Great Reads References:
"The Psychology of Color for Interior Design," by Freshome: https://freshome.com/inspiration/color-psychology-interior-design/
"The Best Colors to Make a Small Room Look Bigger," by The Spruce: https://www.thespruce.com/colors-to-make-a-small-room-look-bigger-4067296
"The Best Paint Colors for Small Rooms and Small Spaces from Benjamin Moore," by Architectural Digest: https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/best-paint-colors-for-small-rooms-and-small-spaces-from-benjamin-moore
"5 Paint Colors That Make a Small Room Look Bigger," by Real Simple: https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/decorating/paint-colors-small-room
"How to Make a Room Look Bigger with Paint Colors," by Better Homes & Gardens: https://www.bhg.com/decorating/color/paint/how-to-make-a-room-look-bigger-with-paint-colors/
"Painting Ceilings Like a Pro," by Sherwin-Williams: https://www.sherwin-williams.com/homeowners/inspiration/project-center/interiors/painting-ceilings-like-a-pro