Flooring Ideas for Small Spaces: Tricks to Make Rooms Look Bigger

October 3, 2025

If you have a small room in your home, you’ve probably wondered how to make it feel larger without knocking down walls. The good news is that the right flooring can completely transform the look and feel of your space. At Baldwin Family Flooring, we help homeowners in Franklin and Middle Tennessee choose flooring that not only looks beautiful but also creates the illusion of more space.



Here are some flooring tips and tricks to help your small rooms feel bigger and brighter.

1. Go with Lighter Colors

Light floors reflect more natural and artificial light, making a room appear more open. Shades like light oak, maple, beige, or even whitewashed styles are great options. Pair them with light-colored walls for an airy, seamless look.


2. Use Wide Planks

Narrow planks can make a space feel busy and cramped. Wide planks create the opposite effect by drawing the eye across the room, making it appear more expansive. Whether you choose hardwood, vinyl, or laminate, wide planks are an excellent choice for small spaces.


3. Lay Flooring Diagonally

Instead of installing flooring parallel to the walls, try a diagonal pattern. This tricks the eye into seeing more dimension and depth, instantly making the room feel larger. It’s a stylish option that works especially well in small bedrooms or living rooms.


4. Choose Glossy or Polished Finishes

Flooring with a polished or semi-gloss finish reflects more light, which can brighten up tight spaces. This works particularly well with tile, luxury vinyl, or hardwood flooring. Just remember that glossier finishes may show scratches more easily, so they’re best in low-traffic rooms.


5. Create Continuity Between Rooms

If you have adjoining small rooms, use the same type and color of flooring throughout. Consistent flooring creates a smooth visual flow, making multiple small rooms feel like one larger space.


6. Consider Vertical or Horizontal Lines

The direction you lay your flooring makes a big difference:

  • Vertical lines draw the eye into the room, making it look longer.
  • Horizontal lines make a space look wider.

Choose the layout based on what dimension you want to emphasize.


7. Don’t Forget Rugs

Strategically placed area rugs can also help create a sense of openness. Use rugs in lighter colors or with subtle patterns to anchor furniture without overwhelming the room.


Final Thoughts

You don’t have to remodel to make a small space feel bigger. The right flooring can instantly open up a room and add both style and function.


At Baldwin Family Flooring, we specialize in helping homeowners find flooring that fits their space, lifestyle, and budget. From wide plank hardwood to durable vinyl and everything in between, we’ll help you choose the best option to make your rooms feel bigger and brighter.



Ready to update your small space? Contact Baldwin Family Flooring today for a free consultation in Franklin, TN.

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