Many people feel uncertain when faced with a small space. It can seem more difficult to transform than a generously sized room, yet it really just takes thoughtful planning. In fact, some of the most memorable interiors are the smallest; when done well, they feel intimate, curated, and perfectly attuned to both their owner and the home itself.
Kourtney Kardashian’s inviting gray snug room, designed by Jeff Andrews, is a perfect example – a small living room that’s elegant, welcoming, and entirely bespoke to its surroundings.
Smaller rooms are an invitation to be braver than you might elsewhere in the house. They’re the perfect place to experiment – a richer palette, a bolder print, a statement finish that might feel overwhelming in a larger space but feels thrilling in a more intimate one. I often lean into stronger colors or more intricate patterns on the walls, giving the room a distinct personality all its own.
It’s a chance to reveal a more extroverted side of your style – and a reminder that you should never scale down furniture to the point of timidity. Confident proportions bring balance, making even the tiniest room feel intentional and luxurious.
‘People often assume they should buy small-scale living room furniture for a cozy room, but that actually makes a space feel smaller,' says Sheena Murphy, partner at Nune. 'Don’t be afraid to fill the room – get a rug that sits fully under all your furniture, and don’t buy a love seat if you can actually fit a three-seater sofa in the room. Not only will buying larger-scale furniture look better, but it will also make your experience of this cozy space much more comfortable: a win-win!’
Interior designer Lonika Chande agrees: 'It is worth noting that a pair of armchairs can often take up more space than a small sofa. Certainly, a smaller armless sofa, paired with a little side table to place a drink, and a floor lamp instead of a table lamp, can be a much better use of space in a small, cozy living room.’
Texture in interior design plays a crucial role, too. As seen in interiors like the one above – where natural stone-inspired walls, sleek black cabinetry, tactile fabrics, and organic accessories work in harmony – contrast and layering prevent a small space from feeling flat. Plush throws, fur accents, woven rugs, and sculptural décor bring dimension, while polished finishes like mirrored glass or brass introduce a quiet luxury that bounces light and keeps the room from feeling heavy.
Shop the look
If you’re looking to infuse your small space with rich, plush textures, I’ve curated a selection of my favorite home decor pieces to help elevate your room in style.
Add texture, depth, and color to any space with this luxurious pillow. Its dimensional weave creates an elegant pleated effect, while the subtle sheen brings cool sophistication to your bed or seating area.
