As UK homes adapt to smaller footprints and more multifunctional living, homeowners are increasingly struggling to make the most of the space they already have. New research commissioned by Tapi Carpets & Floors1 reveals that more than a quarter of homeowners feel short on inspiration when it comes to decorating their homes, with 28% wanting design inspiration for their living room and a quarter (25%) seeking practical storage solutions for their bedroom because the space feels too small.
Inspired by the rise of micro-spaces and flexible living , the survey set out to understand which areas of the home people find most difficult to decorate and why. In addition, with the increase in new-build homes across the UK, concerns have grown that these properties often provide less storage space than older housing. The survey findings show that while space constraints are a major challenge, uncertainty around layout, lighting and design choices are leaving many rooms unfinished, underused or lacking personality.
To address this, Johanna Constantinou, Interior Trends Expert at Tapi Carpets & Floors, has shared expert advice, responding directly to the survey results and offering practical ideas to help homeowners rethink their most-used rooms.
Living rooms need direction, before decoration
The survey highlights that many homeowners feel lost when decorating their living room, with over a quarter (27%) saying they lack inspiration. Johanna explains that the key is defining the purpose of the space first.
“Start by thinking about how the room is used. If it’s for watching TV, socialising, or working from home, consider creating distinct zones,” she advises. One practical tip is to place a rug under your seating area to visually anchor the space, even in open-plan layouts. Rugs should touch the front feet of your sofa, as this will help to anchor the furniture and visually create zoning. Furniture should be positioned slightly away from walls, where possible, to improve flow and make the room feel larger.
For lighting, Johanna suggests layering multiple sources, such as floor lamps behind sofas, wall-mounted sconces, or table lamps in corners, to create warmth and depth. With Google searches for ‘lighting for home’ increasing by 50% over the past three months and 60% of homeowners seeking improved lighting in rooms with limited natural light, she also suggests placing mirrors opposite windows to reflect sunlight into darker areas. Always consider the hue of the light source too. Rooms where you aim to achieve a cosy feeling tend to suit warmer lighting sources, but areas of the home which visibility is key such as an office, may suit whiter lights.
“Small touches like coordinating cushions with your carpet or adding a statement floor runner along a hallway leading into the living room, can help tie the zones together and make the room feel cohesive,” Johanna adds.
Bedrooms need smart storage and vertical layouts
In bedrooms, the survey results show that a quarter of homeowners (24%) feel the room is too small and need practical storage solutions. Johanna says tackling clutter is the first step.
“Utilise under-bed storage boxes or choose a bed with built-in drawers, such as ottoman-style bedframes to free up floor space. Floating bedside shelves instead of bedside tables can also create more room and make the area feel lighter.” she explains.
She also recommends thinking vertically: tall wardrobes with sliding doors make use of vertical space without crowding the room, while hooks or wall-mounted racks behind doors can provide storage for accessories, robes, or bags.
In terms of styling, Johanna advises keeping the palette simple and consistent. Matching your flooring with your furniture tones creates visual continuity, making the room feel larger. She also suggests placing a mirror on one wall to reflect light and give the illusion of more space. “Even small details, like adding a soft runner along the side of the bed, can make the bedroom feel more intentional and welcoming,” she adds.
Design confidence comes from achievable ideas
The survey also highlights a generational divide: while 31% of over-65s report no decorating difficulties, only 6% of 18–24-year-olds feel confident using every area of their home. Johanna says inspiration is a key driver in closing that confidence gap. “Younger homeowners often feel daunted by layout or storage challenges, but with achievable ideas and step-by-step solutions, it’s possible to transform every part of the home without major renovations.”
“Small changes, like rethinking layout, improving lighting or choosing finishes that work harder for the space, can completely shift how a room feels,” says Johanna.
More expert tips, layout ideas and inspiration for real homes can be found on the Tapi Ideas Hub, helping homeowners feel more confident transforming the spaces they use the most.
