7 Ways to Make a Small Space Feel Bigger | EASY Space Saving Design Hacks

[@lifewithklc]

Side note: if you live in Cali I would not advise over the bed decor unless it’s EXTREMELY light weight. Earthquake safety over decor😊

[@KivaBrent]

True! Such a good point. I didn’t think about this, so thank you, Kim!!!

[@annamariethompson116]

👍 agree

[@smiles5029]

I agree. but I just do not like shelves over the bed where ever you live. It is just not safe. Things shift, and fall over all the time; think about those loud thunderstorms.. sometimes it shakes the house/windows. I would just stay away from this design all together.

[@sawamichelle]

Here in the eastcoast, earthquakes are rare., But after experiencing one, I say nowhere is safe for any objects above anyone's head.

[@TheRonskins]

Yes! I lived 8 years in San Jose and when we first moved there from Connecticut, my husband (who had lived in California before) told me not to put any decor above the bed as it could come crashing down upon us while we're sleeping should we experience an earthquake. I've decorated a few small rooms in my lifetime and there are other walls one can choose to place shelves, if needed.

[@carolmoyes2449]

I love that you consider 12’x12’ is a small room. In most houses in the UK that would be considered the master bedroom. A small bedroom here would 9’x9’. 😀

[@PeachyNanaUK]

So true!

[@PeachyNanaUK]

Our master bedroom is 12 x 10. A squeeze with our super king but just about doable.

[@sarahrosen4985]

Yes! And then we need to add a closet inside that space.

[@PeachyNanaUK]

@@sarahrosen4985 yep!

[@miramari732]

I love that too ^^. We have 10'x8' master bedroom and that's upgrade from 6,5'x8' we had in previous apartment ^^. And that's pretty standard in Poland flats... This or sleeping on a couch in living room. I guess euro standards are little bit different ^^

[@GGiblet]

"If someone's going to judge you, well then they can just get out" -Kiva Brent 🙌👏👏👏 such a fabulous quote! Love your videos

[@KivaBrent]

Thank you so so much!!!

[@whateversclever7087]

Yes! Loved that so much! Ummm all jerks get out lol!

[@mwoods4608]

Omg I loved the little computer image, but you should have kept it going throughout the video! I want to see how it looked on the other side of the room!

[@michaelahallfilms5450]

My thoughts exactly! I was like sure she’s saying it but I have no realistic idea where she is saying to put it

[@LSERA13]

Kiva, this is the single best video I've watched on bedroom function and decor EVER. No cap. And, I've watched a lot. I feel like I watched something for free that I should have paid for. Thank you for the practical and doable advice!

[@KivaBrent]

Oh wow, thank you so much 😊. That makes me so happy!

[@luciagonzalez4899]

Why did you stop the graphic?? I wanted to see what you were saying about the bed placement>

[@Stephanie-rn7ry]

Yeah I had trouble visualizing after and lost interest in what she was saying.

[@Halbmond]

She showed it again at 15:30 but that was a weirdly long time in between

[@RachelRiner]

Super advice! Question… could you make a video on kids bedrooms and practical storage? I’d love to hear/see your thoughts if you can imagine or pick the brains of people you know you have kids… and have taste too 😅

[@sunnyday6400]

Thanks to you I improved my English! :-) I'm not a native speaker, but I wanted to go on listening to your content, although you speak pretty fast. Well, now, I understand everything. Your content is too interesting for letting it go! Thank you for all your work!

[@lenorejackson2203]

Gurl IKEA just got their new Design Ambassador ......They better not sleep on you!

[@margiecaron5760]

WOW! Just found your channel today and I am blown away. KB you are so well spoken and professional and I have no doubt you will be highly successful in your career. It is refreshing to hear such professional advise for people on a budget who cant afford to purchase high end furniture and decor. I cant wait to see more videos

[@JonathonV]

Hi, Kiva! Thanks for the video! Regarding bed placement, I noticed that when I turned my bed perpendicular to the window, it made the room look so much more put-together! Previously my headboard was partially blocking my window and I didn’t realise how that made it look amateurish until I twisted the bed around! So that’s another thing to consider! Also, I definitely agree with all the commenters about overhead shelves. Not only are they issues in earthquake zones, but if you’re on the tallish side, unless you place them awkwardly high above your bed or pull your bed forward (hard to do in a small space), they’re a constant head-bump hazard. With regard to sconces, they look really great but the problem is the depth. They can eat into your free space, and if the arms turn, you might accidentally hit your head on them. It’s also rare that you can get just the right depth and angle for reading. You can get semi-flush ones but they’re not as stylish. My sconce experience hasn’t been positive so far. All that said, I love the advice that you indirectly referred to a few times, which is the idea that contrast makes a room look smaller. That’s so true! I’ve seen all-light and all-dark rooms that don’t feel small but when you have a lot of contrast the brain can’t blend it so you’re seeing every line and the room looks smaller. Also, amen to using vertical space! 😀 Thanks again, Kiva! 👋🏻

[@FridaBeautyBird]

My style is nothing like the clean, modern look you're into, but I can't stop watching your videos anyway. Your design tips are pretty universal between styles and I love how you show that different pieces can go with multiple styles. All that to say that I've subscribed! Excited to see what you post next!

[@Reanmii_official]

KB, please make one for a 10x10 bedroom. Also, is it true that removing closet doors & putting a curtain gives the impression that the room is bigger??? Thank you for sharing your amazing talent with all of us!!

[@Monicalala]

I would never replace a solid closet door with a curtain, but that is just me.

[@mffmoniz2948]

Get a wardrobe with a mirror door. Or add a light mirror. That makes the room look bigger. A curtain? Is it a window? It doesn't really protect from dust. Not a good idea for wardrobes. No door and no curtain? I don't know about you, but my wardrobe isn't tidy all the time.

[@sandyfrank2652]

where do you shop for your clothes? Your style even reflects in your wardrobe and I like your outfits

[@GodIsOurProtector-s2n]

Please do a video like this for a small living room. This was great!

[@goodwolf866]

This please!!!

[@lessiedavis9015]

Yes please small living room

[@naylak5718]

Ditto

[@chellakaygraves]

I love the fact that you get the space versus function. You've got a great eye for detail and making neutral seem so very sophisticated for small spaces...

[@iynnabaker8656]

I feel like I should be paying you for this video. This is amazing. The timing couldn't have been better. Thanks so much

[@KivaBrent]

😭 I’m so glad that this is helpful! Thank you for watching 💕.

[@randyw4984]

right! me too I love her!! way cool

[@pangmoua3189]

🙋🏻‍♀️ yes!! Me too!! 😂 I subscribed after my first video KB!!!

[@skbwolverine]

Absolutely perfect timing, indeed. I'm starting to get tge Spring cleaning/redecorate itch. 😩😂

[@IAMADRIANEB]

KB got me re decorating my whole house...

[@goldenorquidea]

This woman is a genius! I love the way she explains things so well and still allows one sense of individual taste.

[@binesunshine1]

I discovered your channel a few weeks back and I have watched every video on your channel now! Absolutely obsessed with your style.

[@KivaBrent]

Thank you so much! That means more to me than you know!

[@karenladd808]

Same! It’s only been a few weeks but now I can’t get enough of Kiva’s decor & personal style

[@ajdullat4946]

Me too 🥰

[@paulatoussaint9484]

this is one of the first kiva videos I watched. Ive learned so much from her. i love her advice

[@patsypryor9850]

I am with Carol below, I live in a tiny home and it certainly does not have that kind of space! also my bedside stand serves a purpose and it has drawers that are packed and used. I can't have them just for looks!

[@Hummingbow]

My daughter is moving into an apartment with some friends and her room is TINY. This was such a great and informative video. Thank you Kiva!!💕

[@paulamartin562]

I followed your bedroom floor pan and moved my centered bed to the far wall like you suggested. I have so much more space! Getting a new dresser and maybe a vanity. Thanks New a!!

[@KivaBrent]

Yay! I’m so happy to hear that!

[@rhondaharcum2369]

I JUST SAW YOU ON THE TAMRON HALL SHOW!!!! Your home is BEAUTIFUL! Keep up the good work.

[@KivaBrent]

Ahhh!!! Thank you so much, Rhonda!!!

[@tammy5862]

I love what you are wearing today....and your eyewear!

[@KivaBrent]

Thank you so much!

[@paulettemorgan9959]

I come here for her outfits too .

[@lisaburmood5540]

I love the look of shelves above the bed. When anchored correctly, they won't fall.

[@lovelynurse23]

Youuuuuuu are AMAZING! Your easy going, informational and “teaching vibe” is EVERYTHING! Thank you for existing Sister!!! ❤️🌹

[@KivaBrent]

Wow, thank you so so much April!! 💕💕

[@jke387]

Hahahaa, in some places, 12X12 is huge! It's not uncommon to find 7X7 rooms in Chicago. IKEA has real cool storage beds that start as twin daybeds, but pull out to a bigger bed, without taking up storage space. They even have shelving headboards that take up minimal space. I love storage benches, too. And if your room is really that small, find other places in the house to add storage. I have the tall dresser, and love the space it saves! Buying secondhand, be careful though- I'd sprinkle diatomaceous earth on it, and if possible, let it sit somewhere before bringing it in. There's storage door mirrors, which are really cool. Actually, there's multiple door storage options. I love this fold/flip desks or furniture in general. Murphy and loft beds aren't for everyone, but they're great for space saving, as well. Hooks are great. Vertical things with hooks. Rods: some rooms are so small and no closet, people have to hang rods above their bed for clothing. Some people don't even have the option for chair space. If I'm gonna take up space with something I can sit on, I'd rather it be an ottoman.

[@wrenkellyx]

I wish I could choose how the layout of my room is 😩 I have a baseboard heater on one wall, the door and closet on the opposite wall, leaving ONE wall to have the bed against in the middle. Sigh lol

[@reenougle]

Great tips. As an American living in Europe I can tell you decorating can be a challenge!Bedrooms are much smaller and it is extremely rare to find a closet. Many people have to have armoires or build an IKEA type system. But there is one door less in the bedroom so there is more wall space. I have always looked to under bed storage as a solution and IKEA is my spiritual home.

[@karinanicole4933]

OMG GIRL ! I LOVE YOU !!!! I DEFF NEEDED THIS GUIDEEEEEEE ! LOL IM SO EXCITED. IVE BEEN LIVING IN THIS RENTAL FOR AMOST 3 YEARS AND IT NEVER FELT LIKE HOME - WITH YOUR VIDEO AND ADVICE, THATS ABOUT TO CHANGEEEEE ! SO GLAD I CAME ACROSS YOU. GOD BLESS BABES .

[@karinanicole4933]

What colors you recommend for the bed frame? I love whites & so I would decor and dress the bed using whites & beige. But would a black and wood brown throw off the colors?

[@zenquarium]

Another tip for nightstands and maximizing space...narrow ladder shelves and baskets....can have lamps dehumidifiers decor ect...

[@globetrotterjian3953]

One of the most useful tips and videos! instead of those renovation in small space videos, I found investing and illustrating your points using software is the best for beginner

[@SpencerLevey]

Love the visual presentation, really makes things easier to visualise

[@cece2930]

Love this video, perfect timing given the fact that I am super downsizing from a house after 20+ years. I have been overwhelmed with storage & style issues. I now have renewed faith in making our small apartment into a functional/beautiful living space. Thanks for your motivation & expertise 💖

[@beantownzfinest1247]

Omg this was right on time! My daughter’s room is this exact same layout🥰. She’s so excited to redecorate using your tips! You are a ROCK STAR⭐️! Can you PLEASE do one for a small open concept living, dining & kitchen? That’s the one decorating video I can’t seems to find🤦🏾‍♀️...

[@HosCreates]

Drapes hanging from the ceiling to divide it , bookshelves or room divider screens to shield the bed from view for privacy . Or make your bed double as a sofa or get a sofa bed.

[@paigeturner1124]

Yes! I have an apartment and can’t fit a lot of the gorgeous furniture you find. Thank you, Kiva!

[@KivaBrent]

I hope this helps! 💕

[@pcbrightlights3733]

KB, a 12x12 bedroom is not small! 🥲💋

[@livenubian-homedecordiylif8384]

I live in New York and my house is super small! And I am currently furnishing my home on my channel so you timing is perfect!!

[@KivaBrent]

I was thinking so much of New Yorkers as I made this video!

[@paigeturner1124]

Me too! I’m in Brooklyn - space is an issue!! 😀

[@godiseverything1482]

@@KivaBrent Hi Keva What size Sofa would you recommend for a 12×12 Living room? Please respond Thank you 😊

[@CJSails]

Haha! I love watching your videos. When you asked about the nightstand I got the biggest laugh. My Nightstand literally has nothing but junk in it. One Drawer is a refrigerator compartment and the other just regular where I keep non-refrigerator snacks.

[@jonnaborosky8836]

I'm getting ready to move into a much smaller house and am feeling stuck about how to decide what to keep, what to get rid of and how to fit what I keep. I'm getting good ideas here! Thank you! I still feel overwhelmed, but things you mentioned help me sort it out a bit (shelving on the wall, dresser on a closet...) Thank you very much!

[@julieemerine8435]

I’m so glad i have your channel to watch! You get right to the detail. 🙏

[@blaqfish]

Thank you for sharing this...I live in a apartment and it seems as if my options are limited. This gives me hope and direction ⬆️

[@carolynlong4999]

Wow I’m blown away and hardly comment on any video but I believe you mentioned in another video that you are self taught? Well you my friend are a breath of fresh air which I much needed. I will be signing up for your consultations.

[@dobbiejoyner8110]

Lol... found a quarter the other day ..picked it up and sanitized my hands real good 🤣🤣🤣

[@CoLivingSingle]

the tip about varying shapes is true! Everything in my living room and bedroom is a rectangle and I need circles to balance things out! Helpful tips, overall :)

[@kishapereice]

“Raise your hand if your nightstand always has junk in it 🤚🏾🤚🏾🤚🏾🤚🏾” 🤣🤣

[@sharoncontini3284]

🖐️

[@FunniMsBunni]

🙋‍♀️

[@rantingwithbigfifty4333]

✋🏽👏🏽✋🏽

[@skbwolverine]

🤚🏾

[@solidstate9451]

I don't have a night stand.

[@mapleleaf0]

One other way to go with a rug in a small space is to match the color to the floor. This is sort of like wearing shoes the same color as your skin rather than matching your outfit. The skin colored shoes elongate your legs. The rug that is relatively the same color as your floor blends in, adding texture, but doesn't chop up the space.

[@coffeecupconversations]

Thank you for your expertise! I have been doing some things right, just by picking up on tricks from other home decor videos, but your video had many tips I had never heard or had explained that well until now.

[@amykrueger-smith5461]

Thank u so much for ur videos. Ur the 1st designer that has actually taken into account the real issues alot of us have. I am building a 550sq foot tiny 🏠. I use a wheelchair 4 mobility. My room will only he 10x10. I already downsized to a double. But had planned on putting the bed un the middle. Also light bedding with black rugs n & shelfs overhead. U have totally changed what my room will look like. I wanted ti know if u do consultanting? I would def. B interested. The rest if the house is small but am buying new for most of it. The help would mean the world to me. I look forward to ur videos n cant wait fir the next 1s. Thank y fir designing fir the majority of tge people. Nit just those with a 3,000 sq foot house. U made my day today

[@sdeaglefeather]

I will definitely use your service when I move into my tiny space.

[@valf156115]

Your videos are soooo excellent! This is just extremely useful

[@KivaBrent]

Thank you so much!!

[@gigireddick3239]

Excellent video with great design education. Thanks for teaching us!!

[@kaalad3666]

Hi! Can you do a video on designing a closet for a smallish bedroom. Or just what to think of when designing a closet in general. I plan to get one custom made for my room but idk how to make sure I get the most out of the design

[@choosetoshine2610]

Great job, Kiva! Fabulous!!!

[@KivaBrent]

Thanks so much Paula! 💕

[@LAL0216]

Hey KB: love your channel! Watching you from Utah, sadly, but I am from the 'Burgh. Always interested in maximizing my super small home out here. Thank you for what you do! Wishing you all the best.

[@qveenissac]

Also pro tip for really small spaces--if u like RH but everything is too oversized try RH Baby & Child or RH Teen. The stuff is basically smaller versions of similar styles and it's a bit cheaper and when you can get it on sale, even better. I did this for my small apt and no one is gonna know!

[@casa_refined]

Thanks for the tips! I have never thought of bed placement. Happy Friday! 🔥

[@KivaBrent]

Happy Friday! Bed placement means everything to a space!

[@RockyMountainGardener]

Haha I think that a 12x12 is a good size but still tons of great tips! You have the best interior design videos on KZbin!

[@jpagina]

Thanks for the suggestions! I am dreading moving because I don't seem to have a decorating sense. Moreover, I have to get permission to hang anything. Thanks again.

[@rebeccarendle3706]

Just found your channel. Love it! Now binge watching😊.

[@vacuumblink2300]

Please tell me where you got your glasses. I’m so in love with them:

[@goodwolf866]

Where were you the first 20 years of my adult life? 😂 Love your real life design!

[@paulettemorgan9959]

She probably was still in diapers 😁

[@Bookfigures1]

@@paulettemorgan9959 🤫🤫🤫🤣🤣🤣

[@carlettagoodrich-mann1377]

Such good advice. Storage is necessary. Thanks for the tips . Please do something g on lighting .

[@mverasc]

I just moved from a large 1 br apt to a studio, and I’m driving myself crazy choosing furniture. This video is so helpful, thanks you!!

[@donniestrybos1894]

Sheri here! Kiva, this was a fantastic video and just what I needed to plan my guest bedroom spaces. It will even help in Master bedroom planning. Wish you were here to help me get it all started. I have analysis paralysis when it comes to doing any design work!😀

[@sabrinagregg4719]

You gave me some great tips on how to utilize my small master bedroom space. I never knew which wall to place my dresser on. Thanks to you I have a better idea of how to place my furniture.

[@shailyy3202]

Hey thnx for sharing your valuable knowledge with us 💖.. The layout came out to b pretty good ..though I missed greenery 🌴🌻🌿🌾🌼🤩 Stay Blessed Stay Happy 😘🤗🥰😍

[@sharonroberts4950]

Loved this video. The tips are spot on and so practical. Using the software to illustrate was so helpful.

[@KivaBrent]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks so much Sharon! 💕💕

[@butternutsquash6984]

12x12 is the biggest original room in my home. And the ceiling is a mere 7.5'. Being short, I don't mind but how about tips for tiny spaces like this for folks living in older homes.

[@MsSphinx91]

Kiva, I feel like we're on the same page 😅 I did exactly this layout and strategy for my bedroom. Only thing is I didn't add wall shelves because I'm nervous about hanging them. I also opted not to use a dresser and instead just organized my closet really well with Container Store products. But everything else is my layout down to the sconces and the chair lol

[@marjoriejudge5348]

haven't seen 9 ft walls unless the home is pre WWII or home is custom w/ cathedral ceilings - not the norm in the mid west - very helpful video

[@LaurenAnne6]

I will be getting that software asap!! I've been taking screen shots and adding them to a power point presentation where every side is a room. This software seems way better than that, though power point is probably a good option for folks who don't want to figure out a new software tool.

[@mukhethwamulaudzi8476]

I love the video. May you please do one on how to style a modern study/beauty room next. !! ☺️

[@KivaBrent]

That sounds so fun!!!

[@insertnamehere9154]

Loved the finally look. I got rid of my headboard and footboard and it not more spacious, it looks better; especially with beautiful white bedding/pillows.

[@mffmoniz2948]

Regarding the mirror, instead of a mirror above the dresser, get a wardrobe with a mirror on the outside door. It'll be bigger, you can see yourself full size. That frees the top of the dresser for decoration and other useful things. Vertical space is so easy to forget about. I have a tall dresser and I can fit so much stuff in it. It's amazing.

[@rosabaez9693]

You have lots of great ideas that make complete sense. I like the overhead shelves and basically all your ideas. Just found you on utube and glad l did.

[@nancyberg6260]

Oh. My. God. How useful. And useful is beautiful to live with. First time viewer. Will not be the last. Thank you.

[@beatrizyoda]

Love your "Jackson Pollock" on the back. Congrats

[@scissorspaperpaul]

This is the best video! I can’t wait to implement these strategies when moving from my 4 bedroom house to a 2 bedroom apartment!!!

[@lisajames8653]

Great ideas! I’m making changes from your suggestions. Thank you!❤️

[@KivaBrent]

Thanks so much for watching, Lisa!! 💕

[@darlenejohnson9534]

So good!! Thank you!! Could I put the head of a bed right up to a window? Moving back to Japan soon (small apt) and am considering this. Bedrooms are often rectangular there.

[@HosCreates]

I've done it. Just make sure the bed is not higher than the window so it doesn't block the light like this pin.it/6vwvca2

[@qveenissac]

Buying my armoire was the best investment I ever made for a small apt. It takes up more vertical space than horizontal/floor space and it's legit like adding a closet to your room. Plus mine has a drawer, and the main interior can be shelves, hanging rod or both PLUS you can use the top for decorate items or unique boxes for addtl storage.

[@kagitsune]

I would have liked to see more examples of the bed placement in your drafting software. Maybe for a future update video?

[@PopleBackyardFarm]

I have lots of small spaces this is amazing that you shared this going to have to go rethink some spaces.

[@grumpier30]

I just found your channel and watched a lot of your videos. Your videos contradict themselves. One video you said the floating shelves have to go. This video you show the shelves over the bed for additional space. Another video you said to get rid of the dresser mirror or put it some where else in the house. This video says to get a dresser with a mirror.

[@joseph8546]

Amazing! This video was so helpful, you've saved me thousands no doubt

[@innerriot]

I really love your videos and the software tip was so helpful as I was looking for something like this! I'll be moving into a larger space in October and am super excited to design the new flat. it won't be huge so I still have to deal with some space issues even if it's not as "bad" as right now. Even though I think I've made the most of my current flat it's definitely a little crowded and I'm looking forward to have a place that I can design pretty much from scratch and make a little more airy :)

[@rosalindaaguilar287]

I Loooveeee The Shelves Over The Bed!!!

[@allysonarias8540]

Absolutely loved this! Thank you! Any tips on low ceiling fixtures?

[@barbcarranza3492]

I really love the shelves above the bed! What I don’t understand is putting practical items out of reach above your bed seems to make them inaccessible, right?

[@mandySIMS6319]

I can't wait to measure my bedroom, the drawn up bedroom looks bigger than mine 😂 My tiny bedroom (I don't call it small) for me and my fiance is difficult to work with. We ain't small peeps, he is 6'5. So this video is amazing, loving the ideas. Thank you ❤️

[@hayles91185]

Hi! Can you share the CAD software you are using in the vid? loving your work and style 😚

[@KivaBrent]

It’s homestyler.com!

[@nolajones366]

Love the shelves above bed idea

[@glenndamcmillian458]

Hi I wanted to know can you do these things for a studio I would love to send a pic of my studio and hear your thoughts. Thank you

[@CLOJAMES-L78]

I really enjoy watching your videos. Thanks for tips. Can you share where you purchase your jewelry? Thanks

[@tracyj2886]

Awesome job! Great info!!! Love your energy!

[@lindajokensinger8690]

I don't have a dresser at all and it works for me. I live in a double-wide trailer so my rooms are small and I only have one closet but it's a walk-in. I hang everything I can ( double rod ) and have a piece of furniture with cubicles where I put baskets for things that can't hang, like socks, bras, underwear.

[@anaem4934]

I am sorry, I LOVE lamps. A side lamp is a must for me.

[@michellewalker1033]

How do you feel about throw rugs by the bed, instead of a large room sized rug?

[@msjkramey]

What I did in one apartment was I hung a second rack off of my first one with a few things from the hardware store. I got a thick dowel rod, screwed some loops into it, got two equal lengths of chain, and attached it with screw quick links. Since it was a chain, I could easily adjust the height just by changing my connection point. It was super cheap and convenient, even if it wasn't the most aethetic thing