How to Decorate Small Home

Decorating a small home can be a daunting task, but the rewards are immeasurable. The challenge lies in maximizing the limited space available while still creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. However, with thoughtful planning and creative solutions, even the tiniest of homes can be transformed into functional and stylish living spaces.

When it comes to decorating a small home, it is important to first assess the space and understand its limitations and potential. By carefully considering the layout, dimensions, and architectural features of your home, you can determine how to make the most of every inch. This involves strategic furniture selection, clever storage solutions, and creative space planning.

Color plays a crucial role in creating an illusion of space in small homes. Choosing the right color palette can make all the difference in opening up a cramped room and making it feel more expansive. Lighter colors such as whites, pastels, and neutrals tend to reflect natural light and create a sense of airiness. On the other hand, bold accents or darker shades used sparingly can add depth and visual interest without overwhelming the space.

In this article, we will explore various strategies for decorating a small home that maximize its potential while maintaining functionality and style. From choosing multifunctional furniture to utilizing vertical spaces for storage and decoration, we will provide practical tips and tricks to help you create an open and inviting living environment.

By embracing natural light, adding mirrors for reflection, organizing clutter effectively, employing window treatments strategically, and using optical illusions creatively, you can transform your small home into a personalized oasis that celebrates your unique charm and creativity.

Assessing the Space

When it comes to decorating a small home, one of the first steps is to assess the space and understand its limitations and potential. This step is crucial in order to make informed decisions about color palette, furniture selection, and overall design choices. By understanding the unique characteristics of a small home, you can maximize its potential and create a space that feels both functional and inviting.

Measuring and Planning

The first task in assessing the space of a small home is to measure each room accurately. This will give you a clear idea of the dimensions you are working with and help you plan accordingly. Pay attention to any irregularities such as slanted walls or nooks, as these can present opportunities for creative storage or unique design features.

Once you have measured the rooms, create a floor plan that includes all existing elements such as windows, doors, and built-in fixtures. This will allow you to visualize how furniture and decor will fit within the space. Consider traffic flow and ensure that there is enough room to move comfortably around each piece of furniture.

Evaluating Natural Light

Another important aspect to consider when assessing a small home is natural light. Take note of where windows are located in relation to each room and how much sunlight they receive throughout the day. Natural light has the ability to make a small space feel more open and airy, so it’s important to take advantage of it when possible.

Consider choosing lighter window treatments that allow sunlight to filter through while still providing privacy. Sheer curtains or blinds can be excellent options for letting light in while preserving aesthetics. Additionally, evaluate if there are any obstructions outside of your windows that could block natural light from entering your home.

Identifying Potential Storage Areas

One challenge in decorating a small home is finding adequate storage solutions. Assess the space and identify potential areas where additional storage can be incorporated. Look for unused corners, wall spaces, or vertical areas that can be utilized for shelves, hooks, or cabinets.

Consider investing in furniture pieces that offer hidden storage compartments so you can maximize functionality without sacrificing style. Wall-mounted shelves and floating cabinets are also great options for adding storage while keeping the floor space free. By identifying potential storage areas and utilizing them effectively, you can keep your small home organized and clutter-free.

Assessing the space of a small home is an essential step in creating a well-designed living environment. By measuring and planning, evaluating natural light, and identifying potential storage areas, you can make informed decisions about color palette, furniture selection, and overall design choices. Understanding the limitations and potential of your small home will allow you to create a space that is both functional and visually appealing.

Choosing the Right Color Palette

Decorating a small home can be a challenging task, but with the right strategies, it can also be incredibly rewarding. One important aspect to consider when decorating a small space is choosing the right color palette. Colors have the power to create an illusion of space and transform the atmosphere of a room. By carefully selecting colors, you can make your small home feel more open and spacious.

When choosing a color palette for a small home, it’s essential to opt for light and neutral shades. Light colors such as whites, creams, pastels, and soft grays tend to reflect more light, making the space feel brighter and larger. These hues also help create an airy and open ambiance. Additionally, using similar tones throughout different areas of the house creates a sense of flow and continuity.

To add visual interest without overwhelming the space, consider incorporating pops of color through accessories or accent walls. This can help bring personality and character to your small home without compromising its spaciousness. Remember to choose colors that complement each other and avoid using too many contrasting shades, as this can make the room feel disjointed and cluttered.

In addition to choosing light colors, utilizing monochromatic or analogous color schemes can also enhance the illusion of space in a small home. Monochromatic schemes involve using different shades and tints of one particular color family, while analogous schemes combine hues that are adjacent on the color wheel. Both approaches help create harmony and cohesion in a limited area.

Choosing the right color palette is just one step towards creating an illusion of space in a small home. Combined with other strategies like maximizing storage solutions, utilizing vertical spaces effectively, and arranging furniture thoughtfully, you can transform your small living area into an open and inviting sanctuary. Remember that decorating a small home requires creativity and innovation – embrace these challenges as opportunities to showcase your unique charm.

Maximizing Storage



Maximizing storage is a crucial aspect of decorating a small home. With limited space, it’s important to utilize every inch efficiently and find clever solutions to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible. This section will provide various tips and tricks for maximizing storage in a small home.

Declutter and Prioritize

Before implementing any storage solution, it’s essential to declutter and prioritize your belongings. Assess each item and determine its necessity or sentimental value. Get rid of anything that you don’t use or love. This will help you create a more streamlined and organized living space.

Utilize Vertical Space

Vertical storage is a great way to make the most of limited floor space. Install wall-mounted shelves, racks, or floating shelves to store books, decorative items, or even kitchen essentials. Use vertical storage options in closets as well, such as hanging shoe organizers or cascading hangers for clothes.

Optimize Underused Areas

Make use of underused areas in your small home for additional storage solutions. For example, the area underneath the bed can be utilized by using under-bed storage containers or drawers. In the kitchen, consider using the sides of cabinets for hanging pot racks or installing magnetic strips on the inside of cabinet doors to store knives or spice jars.

Consider Dual-Purpose Furniture

When selecting furniture for your small home, opt for pieces that serve multiple purposes. Look for coffee tables with built-in storage compartments or ottomans that can double as extra seating with hidden storage inside. This way, you are maximizing functionality without sacrificing precious space.

Make Use of Wall Space

Incorporate wall-mounted hooks, pegboards, or baskets to hang frequently used items like coats, bags, keys, or hats near your entryway. This will prevent clutter from piling up on surfaces and provide easy access to these items without taking up valuable floor space.

Use Storage Boxes and Bins

Invest in storage boxes or bins that can be neatly stacked or labeled to keep your belongings organized. These can be used in closets, under the bed, or on shelves to maximize storage potential. Additionally, transparent bins allow for easy visibility of contents, making it easier to find what you need.

By implementing these clever storage solutions in your small home, you can effectively utilize every inch of space available while keeping your living area well-organized and clutter-free. Remember to be creative and think outside the box when it comes to maximizing storage options. With careful planning and strategic choices, your small home can become a functional and stylish sanctuary.

Furniture Selection

When it comes to decorating a small home, selecting the right furniture is essential. The size and scale of furniture can greatly impact the functionality and aesthetics of a small space. Optimal choices for small-scale living involve finding pieces that are multi-functional, compact, and visually light.

Firstly, considering multi-functional furniture is key in maximizing the limited space available. Look for items that serve multiple purposes or have hidden storage compartments. For example, a sofa bed can act as both seating during the day and a comfortable bed at night for guests. Coffee tables with built-in shelving or ottomans with storage inside are also great options to provide extra storage without sacrificing floor space.

Next, choosing furniture with compact dimensions is important to avoid overwhelming the room. Opt for smaller scale sofas, chairs, and dining tables that don’t take up too much visual or physical space. Look for slim profiles and clean lines to create a sense of openness in the room. Additionally, consider furniture with exposed legs as they give the illusion of more floor space.

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Lastly, opt for visually light furniture pieces to make the room feel open and airy. Light-colored upholstery can help reflect natural light and brighten up a small space. Furniture made from materials such as acrylic or glass can also add a sense of transparency and help create an illusion of more space.

Creative Space Planning

Arranging furniture in a small home can be a strategic task that requires thoughtful planning. With limited space, it is important to create a layout that maximizes functionality while maintaining an open and airy feel. This section will explore some creative space planning techniques to help you make the most of your small home.

Measure and Map Out Your Space

The first step in creative space planning is to measure your small home and create a scale floor plan. This will allow you to visualize the available space and determine how best to arrange your furniture. Take note of any architectural features such as windows, doors, or built-in shelves that may impact the placement of your furniture.

Prioritize Essential Furniture

Take into consideration the essential furniture pieces that you cannot do without in each room. These pieces may include a bed, dining table, or sofa, for example. Start by placing these items in the most practical locations, taking into consideration factors such as natural light, traffic flow, and focal points.

Embrace Multifunctional Furniture

In a small home, every inch counts. Consider investing in multifunctional furniture pieces that serve multiple purposes. For example, an ottoman with hidden storage can act as both extra seating and a place to store blankets or books. A dining table with foldable sides can save space when not in use but easily expand when needed for entertaining.

Create Zones

To prevent a small home from feeling cramped and cluttered, create distinct zones within each room based on their functions. Use rugs or different flooring materials to visually define each area. For example, in a studio apartment, use furniture placement to separate the living area from the sleeping area.

Consider Scale and Proportion

When selecting furniture for a small home, consider the scale and proportion of each piece. Oversized furniture can overwhelm a small space, while small-scale furniture may get lost and appear insignificant. Aim for a balanced mix of sizes that fit well within the available space.

Utilize Vertical Space

Make use of vertical space to maximize storage and keep the floor area free from clutter. Install wall-mounted shelves or floating shelves to display books or decorative items. Hang wall organizers or hooks to keep frequently used items within reach.

By creatively planning your small home’s layout, you can create an open and airy feel that maximizes both functionality and style. Remember to keep proportions in mind, prioritize essential furniture pieces, and utilize vertical space to make the most of your limited square footage. With careful consideration and strategic furniture arrangement, you can turn your small home into a cozy oasis that feels spacious and inviting.

Embracing Natural Light

One of the most effective ways to make a small home feel more spacious is by maximizing natural light. Natural light not only brightens up a space, but it also creates a sense of openness and airiness. Here are some tips for embracing natural light and expanding the perception of space in your small home:

  1. Keep window treatments minimal: Avoid heavy curtains or blinds that block out sunlight. Instead, opt for sheer curtains or light-colored blinds that allow natural light to filter through while still providing privacy when needed. This will help to maximize the amount of sunlight that enters your home.
  2. Use mirrors strategically: Mirrors are known for their ability to reflect light and create an illusion of space. Place mirrors opposite windows or in areas where they can reflect natural light into different parts of the room. This will help to make your small home feel brighter and more spacious.
  3. Rearrange furniture near windows: When arranging furniture in a small home, try to position seating areas near windows to benefit from the natural light streaming in. By doing so, you not only maximize the amount of natural light reaching your space, but you also create cozy nooks where you can enjoy reading or simply bask in the sunlight.
  4. Consider skylights or solar tubes: If your small home lacks ample windows, consider installing skylights or solar tubes to bring in more natural light from above. These additions can be particularly beneficial in rooms with limited wall space or where privacy is a concern.
  5. Optimize lighting fixtures: While natural light should be prioritized, it’s important to have adequate artificial lighting as well. Choose lighting fixtures that mimic daylight as closely as possible, such as LED bulbs with a color temperature around 5000-6500 kelvin. This will help maintain a consistent brightness and enhance the perception of space even during nighttime or cloudy days.

By embracing natural light and using it to your advantage, you can create a more spacious and inviting atmosphere in your small home. Whether it’s optimizing window treatments or strategically placing mirrors, these tips will help you make the most of the natural light available and enhance the overall perception of space.

Adding Mirrors and Reflections

Mirrors can be a powerful tool in decorating a small home, as they have the ability to create an illusion of space and make a room appear larger than it actually is. By strategically placing mirrors and incorporating reflective surfaces into your design, you can instantly open up your living space and enhance its overall aesthetic. Here are some tips on how to effectively use mirrors to make a small home feel more spacious:

  1. Wall-Mounted Mirrors: Hang large wall-mounted mirrors in key areas of your home such as the living room or dining area. Placing them opposite windows or sources of natural light will allow them to reflect the light and create the illusion of additional windows, making the room brighter and more airy.
  2. Decorative Mirrors: Incorporate decorative mirrors into your small home’s decor scheme by choosing unique shapes, frames, or patterns that add visual interest to the space. These mirrors can act as both functional pieces and decorative accents, serving as focal points while expanding the perception of space.
  3. Mirrored Furniture: Consider incorporating mirrored furniture pieces such as coffee tables or dressers into your small home. The reflective surfaces not only add a touch of elegance but also give the impression of more depth by bouncing light around the room.
  4. Mirror Gallery Walls: Create a gallery wall using an arrangement of different-sized mirrors. This not only adds personality to your space but also creates visual interest while reflecting light throughout the room.
  5. Place Mirrors Strategically: Reflecting views from outside or adjacent rooms can help give the illusion of an extended space beyond what is physically there. Positioning mirrors across from other mirrors can create an even greater sense of depth in narrow hallways or tight corridors.

Remember, when using mirrors to make a small home appear larger, it’s important not to overdo it. Use them sparingly and strategically, focusing on areas that will have the most impact. Mirrors are a versatile and affordable tool that can transform your small home into a more spacious and inviting environment.

Vertical Solutions

When it comes to decorating a small home, every inch of space matters. One effective strategy for maximizing storage and adding decorative elements is to utilize wall and vertical spaces. By thinking vertically, homeowners can make the most out of their small space while creating a visually appealing environment. In this section, we will explore various ways to utilize wall and vertical spaces for storage and decoration.

Wall-mounted Shelves

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to maximize storage in a small home is by installing wall-mounted shelves. These shelves not only provide additional storage space but also serve as decorative elements. Install floating shelves in empty corners or along bare walls to display books, plants, pictures frames, or other cherished mementos. By going vertical with the storage solution, you free up valuable floor space while adding an interesting design element to your home.

Hanging Storage Solutions

Another way to make use of vertical spaces is through hanging storage solutions. Consider adding hanging racks or hooks on the walls of entryways or bedrooms to store coats, hats, scarves, keys, or bags. Additionally, hanging baskets or organizers can be attached to walls in kitchens or bathroom areas for storing towels, cleaning supplies, utensils or toiletries. These hanging solutions keep items within reach while keeping the floor clutter-free.

Vertical Gardens

For those who appreciate greenery but lack outdoor space for gardening, vertical gardens are an excellent option. Transforming a blank wall into a thriving garden not only adds beauty but also purifies the air and creates a sense of tranquility within a small living area. There are several options available including hanging planter boxes attached to walls or creating a living wall with modular planting systems that allow plants to grow vertically on specially designed frames.

Multifunctional Furniture and Decor

Multifunctional furniture and decor play a crucial role in maximizing space and functionality in small homes. When working with limited square footage, it is essential to choose pieces that serve multiple purposes to make the most of the available space. By incorporating multifunctional furniture and decor into the design of a small home, homeowners can create a functional and stylish living environment.

One popular example of multifunctional furniture is a sofa with built-in storage compartments or pull-out beds. These types of sofas not only provide seating but also offer additional storage space for items such as blankets, pillows, or magazines. In addition, they can also double as a guest bed when needed, making them an excellent choice for small apartments or studio units.

Another versatile piece of furniture is the ottoman with hidden storage. Ottomans are known for their ability to serve as both footrests and additional seating options. However, by choosing an ottoman with built-in storage, homeowners can also utilize the inside space to store items like books, remote controls, or even extra throw blankets.

Aside from furniture, incorporating multifunctional decor items can also help save valuable space. For example, wall-mounted shelves that function as both storage and display areas can add depth and personality to a small home while keeping belongings organized. Another option is using decorative baskets or bins that can serve as both storage containers for various items and decorative accents in the room.

ExamplesDescription
Sofa with built-in storageA sofa that provides seating and extra storage space
Ottoman with hidden storageAn ottoman that serves as both footrests and additional storage
Wall-mounted shelvesShelves that function as both storage and display areas
Decorative baskets or binsBaskets or bins that serve as both storage containers and decorative accents
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Utilizing Wall Space

One of the most effective ways to decorate a small home is by utilizing wall space. Walls offer prime real estate for adding personality and style without taking up valuable floor space. By hanging shelves, art, and photos strategically, you can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your small home while keeping it clutter-free.

When it comes to hanging shelves in a small home, it’s important to choose options that are both functional and visually pleasing. Floating shelves are a popular choice as they create an illusion of more space while providing storage for books, decorative accents, or even plants. Additionally, selecting shelves with unique designs or interesting shapes can add visual interest to your walls.

Artwork and photos also play a crucial role in decorating a small home. They have the power to transform bare walls into focal points and infuse the space with personality. When hanging artwork or photos in a small home, consider using a gallery wall arrangement. This technique involves grouping multiple pieces together to create an eye-catching display. Mix different sizes of frames or artwork to add depth and dimension to your walls.

To keep your small home visually balanced, make sure not to overwhelm your walls with too many decorations. Instead, aim for a cohesive look by choosing items that complement each other in terms of style, color scheme, or theme. This will help create a harmonious atmosphere without overwhelming the limited space available.

BenefitsTips
Hanging shelves provide additional storage without taking up floor space.Choose floating shelves or shelves with unique designs.
Artwork and photos can add personality and style to small homes.Create a gallery wall arrangement for a visually appealing display.
Maintain balance by selecting items that complement each other in terms of style and color scheme.Avoid overcrowding the walls with too many decorations.

Organizing Knick-Knacks and Clutter

In a small home, it’s essential to make the most of every inch of space while keeping clutter at bay. This is especially true when it comes to organizing knick-knacks and decorative accents. By streamlining these items, you can create a clean and visually appealing environment that maximizes the perceived space.

One effective way to organize knick-knacks and clutter in a small home is to utilize storage solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Consider incorporating decorative baskets or boxes that can be placed on shelves or under furniture to store smaller items like trinkets, accessories, or even remote controls. These containers not only keep clutter hidden but also serve as stylish accents themselves.

Additionally, prioritizing the display of meaningful items can help streamline the overall look of your small home. Select a few key pieces that hold sentimental value or add a personal touch to your space, and place them strategically on shelves or tabletops. This approach allows you to maintain a decluttered feel while still showcasing items that are important to you.

To further streamline decorative accents in a small home, consider implementing minimalistic design principles. Keep surfaces clear of unnecessary objects by utilizing wall-mounted storage options such as floating shelves or hanging baskets. This not only frees up valuable counter space but also adds visual interest without overwhelming the room.

Window Treatments

Window treatments are an important aspect of decorating a small home as they not only enhance privacy but also add to the overall aesthetics of the space. In a small home, it is crucial to choose window treatments that maximize the available space and preserve the sense of openness. This section will discuss various window treatment options that can achieve both functionality and style in a small home.

When it comes to choosing window treatments for a small home, it is important to opt for styles that do not overwhelm the space. Light and airy options such as sheer curtains or Roman shades can work well in smaller rooms as they allow natural light to flow through while still providing privacy when needed. These types of window treatments help create an illusion of larger windows and make the room appear more spacious.

Another consideration when selecting window treatments for a small home is to choose materials and colors that complement the overall color scheme and decor. Neutral-colored curtains or shades can blend seamlessly into the background, giving the impression of more space. Additionally, using floor-to-ceiling curtains can create vertical lines that draw the eye upward, making the room feel taller.

In terms of preserving space, utilizing window treatments that have a minimal footprint is essential. Opting for roller blinds or cellular shades instead of bulky curtains can save valuable wall space and allow furniture to be placed closer to windows without obstruction. Additionally, installing curtain rods high above the windows can make ceilings appear higher and give an illusion of grandeur in a small home.

Overall, selecting appropriate window treatments plays a significant role in enhancing privacy, adding aesthetic appeal, and preserving space in a small home. By choosing light materials, neutral colors, and minimalistic designs, homeowners can create an illusion of spaciousness while still enjoying natural light and privacy.

Window Treatment OptionsBenefits
Sheer curtainsAllow natural light, create an illusion of larger windows
Roman shadesAiry option, provide privacy without overwhelming the space
Roller blinds or cellular shadesMinimal footprint, save wall space
Floor-to-ceiling curtainsCreate vertical lines, make the room feel taller

Creating Illusions of Space

Creating the illusion of space is a crucial aspect of decorating a small home. By employing optical illusions and decorative tricks, you can make your small space feel larger and more open. There are several strategies that can help achieve this effect.

One effective technique is to use mirrors strategically throughout your small home. Mirrors have the ability to reflect light and create the illusion of depth, making a space appear larger than it actually is. Placing larger mirrors on walls opposite windows will maximize the amount of natural light they reflect, instantly brightening up your space. Additionally, you can also hang mirrors near doorways or in narrow hallways to visually expand these areas.

Another trick to open up a small home is to use lighter colors on the walls, ceilings, and floors. Light colors have the ability to reflect more light, giving the appearance of a more spacious room. Choose neutral shades such as whites, creams, or pastels for a calming and airy feel. Avoid dark or bold colors on large surfaces as they tend to make a space feel smaller.

In addition to using mirrors and lighter colors, strategic placement of furniture can also contribute to creating an illusion of space in your small home. Avoid placing furniture directly against walls as it can make the room feel cramped and closed off. Instead, try floating furniture away from walls with enough space behind them so that it appears there is ample room to move around. This technique helps create visual depth and makes the overall space feel bigger.

By incorporating these optical illusions and decorative tricks into your small home decor, you can open up your space and create a more expansive atmosphere. Embracing these techniques will not only help you maximize the potential of your small home but also enhance its overall charm and creativity.

Conclusion

Decorating a small home can be challenging, but it is also an opportunity to unleash your creativity and showcase the unique charm of your space. Throughout this article, we have explored various strategies to make the most of limited square footage, from choosing the right color palette to maximizing storage and incorporating multifunctional furniture. By embracing these techniques, you can transform your small home into a cozy and stylish haven.

One of the key takeaways from this article is the importance of understanding the limitations and potential of a small home. By assessing the space and its unique characteristics, you can make informed decisions about color choices, furniture selection, and creative space planning. Additionally, utilizing vertical solutions such as wall shelves and hanging decorations allows you to maximize storage without cluttering your living areas.

Another crucial aspect of decorating a small home is creating illusions of space through lighting and mirrors. Embracing natural light by keeping windows unobstructed and using light-colored window treatments helps expand the perception of space. Furthermore, strategically placing mirrors throughout your home can reflect light and give the illusion of larger dimensions.

In conclusion, decorating a small home requires thoughtful consideration and strategic choices. However, with careful planning, it is possible to celebrate the unique charm of your space while maximizing functionality and style. Remember that every inch counts in a small home, so embrace creativity in finding storage solutions while maintaining a clutter-free environment. By implementing the techniques discussed in this article, you can transform your small living space into an inviting sanctuary that showcases your personal style.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make my small house look good?

Making a small house look good involves utilizing clever design techniques and focusing on maximizing the available space. One effective way is to declutter and remove any unnecessary items that can make the space feel crowded or cramped. Opt for furniture pieces that are proportionate to the size of the room, such as choosing a smaller sofa or compact dining table.

Utilizing light colors for walls and furniture can also create a more spacious feel. Additionally, incorporating mirrors strategically throughout the house can create an illusion of more space by reflecting light and making rooms appear larger.

How can I design my small house?

Designing a small house requires careful consideration of both functionality and aesthetics. Start by creating a layout that optimizes every inch of available space, considering how different areas can function together harmoniously. Maximizing storage options is crucial in a small house, so utilize built-in shelves, multifunctional furniture like ottomans with hidden storage compartments, and vertical space for storing items.

When choosing furniture, opt for pieces that serve multiple purposes, such as sofa beds or extendable dining tables, offering versatility while saving space. Lastly, focus on creating a cohesive visual aesthetic throughout the house with consistent color schemes and complementary decor.

How to decorate a small living room simple?

Decorating a small living room in a simple yet stylish manner can be achieved through some key strategies. Firstly, choose furniture pieces that are appropriately sized for the room and avoid overcrowding it with too many large items. Creating functional zones within the living room can be beneficial; using rugs or different textures to separate seating areas from other sections helps define spaces without needing physical barriers like walls or dividers.

It’s also important to keep surfaces clutter-free to maintain an open feeling in the room – consider optimizing storage solutions like floating shelves or hidden compartments in coffee tables to store frequently used items out of sight but within easy reach. Lastly, focus on incorporating natural light by keeping windows unobstructed and using sheer curtains instead of heavy drapes to allow maximum sunlight to brighten the space.



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