A small living room does not have to appear confining.

It also doesn't have to be boring.

If your living space is limited, there are a number of creative design tricks you can adopt to make the most of your limited space.

Use these tips to turn your small living room design in Malaysia into a space that feels larger and cosier. 

1. Allow Natural Light to Illuminate The Space

Don't block any natural light sources you have because they can help make a place feel bigger and breezier.

Remove the dark drapes that block the majority of the window, and avoid placing a huge piece of furniture such as a wardrobe near the window. 

If you want to use curtains, suspend the horizontal rod as high as possible and keep the curtain panels outside the window frame to make the room appear taller and the windows appear larger.

2. Use Appropriately Proportioned Furniture

A plethora of small seating and storage furniture can make your living room interior design feel crowded and confining.

Don't be hesitant to use large items in a small space, but be aware of the difference between adequately large and too large.

Be wary of sectional sofas that extend too far into the space or an armoire that comes too close to touching the ceiling.

When something appears to be too large for a place, the space appears to be smaller.

It's not often the furniture that's the problem, but rather the style.

A slender couch with low arms will appear slimmer than a mushy, overstuffed sofa.

3. Use Your Walls

When you're tight on space, you'll want to maximise the vertical space on your walls as much as possible.

Hang books and plants on high shelves to draw the eye up and make the ceilings look higher.

If you want to add a large statement item, make a huge statement piece out of artwork or a strategically positioned mirror.

Albel Residency

4. Invest in Furnishings that Catch the Eye

If you're shopping for new furniture for your small living room in Malaysia, keep in mind that anything with legs will allow the eye to see the floor extending beneath that piece of furniture, tricking it into believing the floor (and hence the area) is larger than it is.

Ghost furniture (also known as clear acrylic tables and chairs) can be your greatest friend in a small space since it creates the appearance of extra room by not taking up any visible space.

5. Use Reflective Surfaces

On a wall, hang a giant framed mirror or lean an enormous framed mirror against it.

You'll get the same room-enlarging effect as a mirrored wall but in a more stylish manner.

Space and light will be reflected, giving the impression of increased openness.

For a similar effect, place a bevelled plate mirror on top of a coffee table or side table, or buy a mirrored chest of drawers.

6. Raise the Bar on Storage

Don't waste any vertical space. Picture frames should be hung, tall furniture should be used, and suitable shelving should be considered.

A beautiful painting or wall hanging will draw the eye upward, making a room appear larger than it is.

Semi-D Kota Kemuning

7. Invest in multi-purpose furniture 

When it comes to small living room designs in Malaysia, multi-functional furniture is essential.

For instance, use a coffee table that also serves as a storage bin, allowing you to quickly clear out any clutter.

You could also get a sofa with storage beneath the seat.

All in All

Clever small living room ideas can transform a cramped and crowded area into something pleasant and relaxing, while also ensuring that there is no wasted space in a small living space.

These tips will inspire a design for even the smallest living room, converting it into a cosy, relaxing space.