Secrets of Small-Space Decorating

Expanding the vertical space of a room gives the illusion that it's much bigger than its actual square footage. You can:

Open up attic space. If you live where you can push up the ceiling, your small room will look larger with vaulted space and light-giving transom windows or skylights.

Hang a sparkling chandelier or ceiling fan. Either will draw the eye up to the vertical volume of a room.

Use one tall piece of furniture. As with a chandelier, it draws the eye up.

Pictured: The living room in this ranch home gained height and light when a vaulted ceiling was created from attic area.