Want to make a small room feel bigger? Discover how smart storage and built-in furniture can transform your space
The right interior design can double the function and style
Small spaces are often neglected because it's hard to see their potential – only the restrictions. However, many clever solutions can maximise space to make a small room feel bigger.
Take, for instance, this incredible small room transformation, shared with us by the team at Bespoke Carpentry London, who have turned a cluttered, compact room into a streamlined space that now looks twice the size despite filling it with wall-to-wall storage units, built-in furniture and a seating area.
Not only does the room feel bigger, it now doubles up as a calming work area by day and a charming guest bedroom by night – it's incredibly impressive. It proves that even when you think you are limited on space, you are never limited in possibilities.
Inspirational small room makeover
The success of this room transformation is thanks to bespoke wall units that maximise every inch of space. The new design not only appears to double the size, but it also doubles the functionality.
"We transformed a compact, awkward layout into a highly efficient one to restore a sense of calm," says Tonie Pepperstreet, senior designer at Bespoke Carpentry London. "By integrating full-height shelving and custom cupboards and a built-in desk, we successfully eliminated clutter and reclaimed wanted corner space."
To make even further use of the space, the highly functional layout adapts to accommodate guests when it isn't being used as a home office. "The multi-functional design features a cosy reading nook with an armchair that converts into a comfortable guest bed."
Before: feeling chaotic
The space was lacking cohesion, which made it feel smaller than it actually is. While the bookcases and desk made it feel like a home office, the scattered approach to placement felt chaotic, which didn't align with the principles of a calming space.
The homeowner, Helena, contacted the team seeking advice on redesigning her lacklustre space to give it more purpose and make it feel more multi-functional.
"Helena needed a comfortable, cosy home office for working long hours, but a layout that could accommodate a fold-out single chair bed for overnight guests and plenty of extra storage," Tonie explains.
"To maximise every inch, we built custom cabinetry and shelving that seamlessly wraps around the seating area, utilising the awkward corner to create a dedicated reading nook and corner library. We used the recessed alcove space to create a distinct, distraction-free workspace without overcrowding the room.”
After: calm and considered
Helena must be delighted with the outcome, because we certainly were. What initially struck me was how a small room feels bigger, even with more furniture and 'areas' now included in the limited space. It just proves that with the right design ideas, more space is always on offer.
The stylish Shaker-style cabinetry combines library-style open shelves, wrap-around corner shelving, concealed storage cupboards, and a frame for a sofa bed to nestle neatly into.
"Helena chose a depth of 50 cm for the cabinetry and desk, giving her plenty of storage space for the items she wanted to hide away," Tonie explains, before offering the following advice for determining a cabinet size that suits your needs: "A great way to determine your ideal depth is to place the items you want to store against the wall and measure outward. This gives you a clear idea of the spacing required for your base cabinets and the shelving units above."
To add a wow factor, the backboard of the open shelving units features on-trend tongue-and-groove panelling. "This detail breaks up the flat vertical planes of the wall, providing excellent visual texture and a cosy, tailored backdrop for books and ornaments," says Tonie.
Framing the 288 cm tall wall units is an elegant 'Ogee crown moulding'. "This classic architectural profile flares outward at the top header, serving as a decorative transition piece that ties the furniture beautifully to the room’s high ceiling," Tonie explains.
The soft sage green finish of this storage wall is also a beautiful touch. The uplifting shade gives the furniture intentional colour while still feeling light, bright and not encroaching on the limited space.
Helena chose the soothing shade of ‘ Whirly Bird N0.309' by Farrow & Ball, which is an excellent choice for the space. It retains a sense of calm while adding depth and personality, ensuring that, when used as a guest bedroom, the space feels charming and welcoming – not too office-like.
While the colour is a Farrow & Ball version of a sage green, having just been named Dulux Colour of the Year 2027, it feels incredibly on-trend and relevant, making the room feel even more considered.
This soothing shade of green is ideal for painting furniture when you want to avoid stark white, but still want something soft and easy to coordinate with accent colours.
Feeling inspired to transform a room in your home? To give you an clear idea of the project timings we can confirm the carpentry construction and hand-painting took place right in Helen’s home over an 8-9 day period. Total project costings: £8052.
