Color can be used in your home to affect the perception of space. Most people are taught that cool colors recede and “open up” a space, and warm colors advance to make a room feel smaller. However, it is actually the saturation and value levels that are most important.
The furnishings and décor of a room can also affect the spatial perception. Objects that contrast with wall color seem to fill up the space. If the objects in a room are more similar to the wall color there will be a sense of more spaciousness.
Saturated, brighter colors make a wall appear nearer, giving the feeling of more effectively filling the space. These colors can work well in large rooms or any room you want to feel “cozy.”