Christine Schwalm Design

An easy way to make your space feel larger is to design using a more monochromatic color palatte.  This picture shows a skirted table in front of drapery made from the same fabric.  The table blends into the drapery seamlessly, making the space feel larger.  The shape of the table, a demilune, also contributes to a more open feel.  This idea would also work in a living room for a sofa--match it to the wall color so that the sofa fades back.  It's important to note that you don't need to stick with light colors to make this work.  The fabric in this photo is a medium tan and works really well.  You'll notice, too that the designer used several elements to give the room more height: drapery mounted right at the ceiling, pinch pleat drapery (no fussy tieback), and a dramatic floral.