When choosing paint shades for a small space, look for colors with an LRV of 50 or higher.
Light Reflective Value measures how much light a paint color reflects on a scale of zero to 100. This value is important when considering how a paint color will influence a room’s mood, atmosphere, and perceived size.
Paint colors with a higher LRV reflect more light, which can make a room feel brighter and more open. And when a room feels brighter and more open, it automatically feels larger.
When choosing paint colors for a small space, look for colors with an LRV of 50 or higher. White is a classic choice for tight quarters because it has a high LRV, but not all white paint is created equally. Two shades that look nearly identical can have different LRVs.
You also don’t have to stick to white to get a light, airy feel. Light pastels, soft neutrals, and even some mid-tone colors can have high LRVs.
Just be sure to check a color’s LRV before you buy it to ensure that it’ll reflect enough light to make your space feel larger.
