1. Start with a neutral palette. Your eye will not be drawn to anything in particular, which will open up the space visually.

2. Light it up. Dark corners can make a room feel cramped, so illuminate! Light should come from multiple sources, from every direction and from different heights.

3. Use mirrors. They reflect the space, giving the illusion of a room twice as large. Install a mirror above your wainscoting or in a windowless room.

4. Minimize window treatments. Let the light in. If you need window treatments, make sure they aren’t bulky or obstructive when opened (think Roman shades instead of heavy curtains).

5. Make it flow. Darker paint colors make walls recede, so carry the color into an adjoining room to create the illusion of one large space, not two smaller ones.

Photo by Augie Salbosa Using smart design, Cowan maximized this Waikiki condo's space to its fullest potential.

6. Furnish creatively. A low bench or two ottomans across from the sofa work just as well as a love seat, without taking up as much space. Also, consider built-in seating with storage underneath.

7. Take cover. Instead of open shelving, add doors to your storage areas. This gives the space a cleaner, larger appearance.

8. Minimize accessories. Less clutter equals more visual space. Set up small groupings or a few large, well-placed pieces to keep the space open.