A small, confined room has the potential to inspire just as much as a room with high ceilings and distant walls. Studio apartments, partial basements, and closet-sized bedrooms can all be dynamic spaces with the right design tactics. If done right, feng shui has the potential to transfer positive vibes to homeowners.

To optimize the flow and vitality of small spaces, feng shui design strategy encourages these four actions.

1. Divide

It is important to divide the room into functional sections, especially in all-in-one spaces such as studio apartments. Each area should have its own purpose, even without the separation of formal floor-to-ceiling walls. Consider purchasing room dividers so sectors are easily identifiable. Or, use existing furniture to divide up the room without compromising the open layout.

For instance, put the back of a small sofa against the bottom of the bed. Try placing a media console between the footboard and couch. This way, the TV can be twisted around to face both the entertaining area and bedroom while allocating for the different spaces. According to feng shui, appointing areas for different purposes eliminates bad habits such as eating in bed or working on the floor.

2. Organize

Nothing cramps a space more than clutter. Establish organization techniques to keep things tidy; a room naturally seems more open and spacious when all essentials are in place. Incorporate hidden storage ideas such as an under-the-bed sliding bin for household supplies or electronics.

Improve closet organization by adding built-ins to keep clothes and accessories systematically arranged. These feng shui strategies provoke cleanliness and structure, two important aspects of an effective and motivational space.

3. Strategize

Use the reflection of light to make a smaller space appear bigger. Hang decorative mirrors to amplify square footage. If possible, try placing mirrors opposite windows to let the natural light bounce back and forth. Visually increase the size of small windows by installing curtain rods higher than the top of window frames. Give an open and airy feel to the space by using light-colored or sheer curtains.

Blinds are a good option for blocking unwanted sunlight out of the room without taking up valuable space outside the window frame. Feng shui encourages bright and open spaces. Use paint with light hues to mimic and mirror natural light where windows are lacking. Avoid dark colors, as they can make the space feel claustrophobic and dingy, promoting gloom and seclusion.

4. Personalize

Even if there isn’t a lot of square footage to work with, don’t skimp on incorporating personal flair into the space. To adhere to feng shui guidelines, hang family photos, add inspiring colors and showcase special ornaments around the space.

Rather than keeping a laptop out, use a desk as a display when not in use and arrange memorabilia to inspire creativity and evoke happiness. Consider applying removable decals with encouraging phrases across blank walls. These motivating accessories stimulate positivity and distract from the lack of space in the room.

Don’t let small rooms become stress-inducing living areas. Check out homes on Zillow for more examples on how to create inspiring designs in small spaces.

If you liked this article, you will also love my 6 Tips on Decorating Small Spaces.