How to Make Your Home Feel Bigger in 2026

Published on January 9, 2026 at 7:38 AM

As homes get smaller and lifestyles get busier, making the most of your space matters more than ever. The good news? You don’t need a major renovation to make your home feel larger, brighter, and more comfortable. A few smart updates can completely change how your space looks and feels.

Why Space Feels So Important

Over the years, homes have grown—and then shrunk again—based on changing lifestyles and economic factors. Today’s homes are designed to be multifunctional. Kitchens double as workspaces, living rooms host everything from movie nights to homework sessions, and open layouts help spaces feel more connected.

That’s why creating the feeling of space is just as important as actual square footage.


1. Declutter to Open Things Up

Decluttering is the fastest and most affordable way to make a home feel bigger. Too much “stuff” visually shrinks a room and makes it feel heavy.

Quick decluttering tips:

  • Try the 5-by-5 rule: five rooms, five minutes each.

  • Box up seasonal décor and off-season clothing.

  • Donate or sell items you no longer use.

  • Keep surfaces as clear as possible.

Less clutter = more breathing room.


2. Style With Purpose

The way your home is furnished and styled plays a huge role in how spacious it feels.

  • Swap bulky furniture for lighter, streamlined pieces.

  • Remove heavy drapes and let natural light in.

  • Choose soft, neutral paint colors to keep rooms feeling open and calm.

  • Limit personal items and use simple, modern artwork instead.

A clean, intentional look makes rooms feel larger and more inviting.


3. Add Smart Storage

Storage doesn’t have to take up valuable floor space. Built-in shelves, wall storage, and hidden solutions help keep clutter out of sight while improving functionality. Even underused areas like closets, attics, patios, or garages can become organized storage zones.


4. Rethink the Layout

Open layouts naturally feel larger. If possible, removing a non-essential wall or raising a ceiling slightly can dramatically change the flow of a space. Even small layout tweaks—like better furniture placement—can make rooms feel more open.


Final Thoughts

Making your home feel bigger isn’t about tearing everything down. It’s about thoughtful edits, intentional design, and creating a space that works for modern living. With a little effort, any home—big or small—can feel open, comfortable, and refreshed.