5 Wall Colours to Avoid, As They Make Your Home Look Smaller

Choosing the right wall colour can visually expand your space, or shrink it. While bold or dark hues may feel modern or dramatic, some colours can make rooms appear darker, narrower, or more closed off.

Interior designers often warn against using certain shades without proper balance, especially in smaller homes or apartments. Here are five colours that may be working against your space, and how to use them more effectively if you can’t resist their charm.

Wall Colours to Avoid

Dark Brown Walls

Dark browns can offer a rich, earthy feel and are often used for a grounded, cosy effect. However, when used heavily on walls or furniture, this shade can absorb light and reduce the perceived size of a room.

If you love deep brown, pair it with soft neutral shades, off-white ceilings, or transparent decor items like glass tables to prevent the space from feeling boxed in.

Navy Blue Walls

Navy blue is timeless and stylish but also dense and shadowy. In smaller rooms or areas with limited natural light, navy can make walls feel like they’re closing in. This colour tends to reflect very little light and can overpower other design elements.

Use navy as an accent, on one wall or in décor like pillows or artwork. Offset it with white trims, mirrors, or warm wood to create contrast and light balance.

Bold, Bright Reds Walls

Bright reds are high-energy and full of personality. But when used in small spaces, they can dominate the room visually. Red tends to be intense and can make a space feel chaotic or overstimulated, especially when used on large surfaces.

Consider toned-down shades like terracotta or burnt orange. These still offer warmth and richness but are gentler on the eyes and more adaptable to small areas.

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Yellow-Orange Tones Walls

Although warm lighting can feel cosy, overly yellow or orange tones, especially when used with darker paint, can make a room feel dim and enclosed. This is often seen in older bulbs or poorly lit corners.

Matte Black Finishes Walls

Matte black can be sleek and sophisticated, but it reflects almost no light. In small rooms, this can create a heavy, closed-in feel. Larger black furniture or wall features may feel bulky and overwhelming.

Choose glossy black finishes or combine black with lighter materials like glass, cane, or metal. Avoid using black on every surface, less is more when it comes to small spaces.

Wall colours play a major role in how open or tight your home feels. While darker or bolder tones aren’t inherently bad, they require thoughtful pairing and moderation, especially in compact interiors.

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