If you’ve ever thought, “I love my small home, but I wish it had more something,” you’re in good company.

Small homes can be packed with charm, but when it comes to upgrades, many homeowners think their options are limited. The good news? There are plenty of clever, high-impact upgrades that can make your small home feel bigger, function better, and even increase its value.

In fact, in a recent Kiplinger’s article from this past October, there was a lot of this good news for homeowners either building or upgrading smaller homes. In a nutshell, they outlined some fantastic ways to invest in smaller homes. And, ready for this, they found that some of those upgrades could yield up to 104% return on your investments! Some are easy DIY projects, and others may require a contractor’s help—but all of them are worth considering. (Seriously, read the article after this to get more inspiration!)

And that got me thinking… I offer my opinions on certain upgrades almost daily. I try to advise my clients on fast and easy home improvement projects that will make dramatic differences to every room size and shape. So, why not talk about some of that advice here?

These are my favorite, lesser-known upgrades that I’ve talked about with past clients, (and a few from my house houses.) Spoiler, each one could have massive potential to change to the look and feel of your small rooms too.

Living Room Upgrades That Elevate Your Space

1. Statement Ceilings: The Forgotten Fifth Wall

A small room with a basic white ceiling? That’s a missed opportunity. Adding wood beams, coffered panels, or bold wallpaper draws your eyes upward, making your living room feel taller and more dynamic.

Even a fresh coat of moody paint (think navy or charcoal) can make a plain ceiling feel grand, special, and high-end.

I love to use this kind of treatment in small rooms like powder rooms, or walk-in closets. You can really go wild with a custom look that is radically different than other rooms in your house. This makes these spaces feel special, and even whimsical.

2. Custom Built-Ins: Storage That Blends In

Built-ins aren’t just for large homes. A shallow wall of custom shelves around a doorway or TV makes use of dead space while adding serious character.

Floating shelves with inset lighting creates a similar effect without more involved renovations.

(An electrician can install outlets in uncommon spots too. Up high to the ceiling for cornice lighting, or to power things like projectors. Down low, for under cabinet lighting. In the floor, for floating furniture configurations where corded lamps can be safely plugged in, (to avoid cords across walkways.)

3. Recessed or Low-Profile Radiant Heating

If you’re dealing with clunky baseboard heaters, you know they dictate furniture placement in the worst way. (I know this well because I have them in my own house.) Sure, you can cover them with a radiator cover. Yes, that provides a console-like surface for décor, but you can’t block them with a sofa or other large pieces.

Upgrading to radiant floor heating or sleek, wall-mounted radiators will free up precious floor space. Trust me, you won’t miss those cast-iron beasts! Your home will feel cozy and modern.

Radiant floors are ah-mazing in bathrooms, but you can totally install them in any room. Best of all, if you’re upgrading to new flooring material anyway, this would be the perfect time to include radiant heating.

And, get this, radiant heat is often considered more energy efficient than forced air, especially with a programmable thermostat to control it.

Kitchen Upgrades That Add Function and Style

4. Glass or Open Cabinet Sections for an Airier Look

A full kitchen remodel isn’t always necessary. Swapping a few solid cabinet doors for glass fronts (or removing doors entirely) creates an instant sense of openness—perfect for a small kitchen that feels boxed in.

Just keep your cupboards organized and tidy. Store all the necessary, but not so pretty things, in base cabinets or pantries.

5. Toe-Kick Drawers: Hidden Storage Magic

That empty space beneath your lower cabinets? It’s prime real estate. Adding toe-kick drawers is a total game-changer for storing baking sheets, placemats, or even pet bowls.

Tip: Add some automatic in drawer LED lights to illuminate the drawer contents too!

While we’re on about toe-kick ideas, I used to have a house with a central vac system – another whole-house upgrade that I LOVED! Here’s why… In the kitchen, we had a small door in the toe-kick that I could control with my big toe. Any small debris, like crumbs, flour, dog hair, I could sweep over to the door, click it on with my toe, and it would get sucked away like magic! Worth every penny! I felt like I was living in George Jetson’s house!

6. Statement Backsplash: Go Beyond the Basics

Instead of stopping at the bottom of your wall cabinets, take your backsplash all the way up to the ceiling for a high-end look.

When I cosmetically re-did my kitchen a few years ago, I extended the back-splash tile all the way around the room- over doorways and windows, and up an entire wall. The effect is something that everyone who comes to my small kitchen gushes over. It’s a super simple, white subway tile but the expansive use of it makes a dramatic, custom look.

Try an unexpected material as a backsplash. materials like antiqued mirror, marble slabs, or metallic tiles can add a unique touch.

Bedroom Upgrades for a More Luxe Look

7. Wall-Mounted Headboard with Integrated Lighting

A bulky bed frame can overwhelm a small bedroom. Instead, go for a wall-mounted headboard with built-in sconces or LED lighting. It saves space and adds a boutique-hotel feel.

At the foot of the bed, choose a low-profile footboard. This keeps the visual flow in a small bedroom feeling open, which will in turn make the bedroom feel bigger.

8. Custom Closet Systems (Without a Full Reno)

Not ready for a full closet gut job? Modular closet systems can give you a high-end look without the hefty price tag. Even simple additions like pull-out shoe shelves or velvet-lined jewelry drawers make a noticeable difference. Also, think about using those pull-out shoe storage or jewelry drawers for other reasons. You don’t have to stick to the “intended purpose” for any storage solution, if it works, that’s what it’s intended for.

9. Pocket Doors: A Space-Saving Upgrade

If a swinging door is eating up your bedroom’s square footage, a pocket door is a smart alternative. This is especially valuable in homes where every inch counts.

How many times has the swing of a door obstructed a pathway or inhibited furniture placement in your home? A small laundry room? A tiny bathroom? Bedroom closets or main doors? I’ll bet you have at least one perfect, or close to perfect, spot where a pocket door would make a huge difference, right?

(I’ve found that pocket doors can be sort of tricky to install. This one is best left to the pros to handle. Believe me, paying someone who has installed them many times will save you tons of frustration.)

Bathroom Upgrades That Maximize Space

10. Full-Length Mirror Walls: Twice the Space, Instantly

A small bathroom can feel twice as large with a full-wall mirror behind the vanity. This trick bounces light around and visually expands the room.

You know that large mirrors can make small rooms feel bigger. A full-wall mirror install in a small bathroom won’t have you taking a second mortgage on the house. It’s considerably less expensive than installing them in larger rooms. The look is chic and cosmopolitan, and I guarantee people will be impressed. (Especially potential buyers when the time is right.)

11. Tiled Shower Niches: Built-In Storage Without the Bulk

Bulky or flimsy shower caddies? No thanks. A tiled niche keeps products neatly stored while blending seamlessly into your shower design.

Tip: Decant your shampoos, conditioners, and body washes in simple bottles that can be subtly labeled for a clean look. Little details like that will absolutely elevate the look of your shower space.

12. Floating Vanity: A Sleek, Spacious Look

A traditional vanity can feel heavy in a small bath. A wall-mounted, floating vanity creates the illusion of more floor space and gives a modern, airy look.

Whole-Home & Outdoor Upgrades for Extra Wow Factor

13. Smart Home Tech: Compact but Mighty

Small homes benefit big time from smart automation. Voice-activated lighting, compact smart thermostats, and space-saving security systems make everyday life easier while adding to your home’s aesthetic.

You probably know this already, but smart tech upgrades are also awesome ways to cut energy bills. Being able to control the lights and HVAC system remotely can cut down on unnecessary power charges when you’re not home.

And I can’t remember the last time I walked into a dark house… It’s so nice to drive up to a welcoming and bright driveway and then to come in from the garage to a cheerful lighted kitchen.

14. Interior Doors That Elevate the Look

Swapping basic white doors for frosted glass, bold colors, or paneled designs adds personality and polish to a small space.

This is a big one. I am literally planning to replace every interior door in my house because the flat core doors are just not cutting it! Sure, they were the big draw in the 1950’s, when my house was built, but there’s just something about panel doors or glass doors that have character that makes a room feel special.

Here’s the thing though, you don’t have to spend the kids’ college tuition to get it. Salvage yards, Habitat for Humanity, and online marketplaces have them. The character is already there, from 100 years ago!

15. Small-Scale Outdoor Upgrades with Big Impact

Even a tiny yard or entryway can shine with vertical gardens, sleek modern house numbers, and stylish outdoor lighting. These updates boost curb appeal without eating up space.

Remember though, less is usually more with exterior embellishments on smaller homes. Keep your landscaping simple, neat, and tidy.

It’s best not to replace your small front lawn with an over-the-top rock scape with a water feature. (Just because that works in Vegas, doesn’t mean it will fly in Boise.)

Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Returns

Upgrading your small home isn’t about adding more stuff—it’s about making smart choices that enhance the function and style of it.

Whether you DIY a few projects or call in a contractor for bigger upgrades, these ideas prove that size doesn’t limit your home’s potential. Pick one (or a few) and get ready to love your home even more.

And always do a gut-check and ask yourself, will this upgrade add value to my home? I can confidently say these ones here did for me and my clients!

Now it’s your turn. Leave me a comment below and tell me about something that you’ve upgraded in your home. Tell me why it works, or what you would do over if you had the chance to do it again. I’ll answer, promise!

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“Michael Helwig was top-notch, very professional and responsive to my needs. He allowed me time to explore ideas and try out a variety of combinations until we found the perfect fit. Michael provided detailed information and offered beautiful ideas to make my dream living room become a reality. The furniture he sourced has totally transformed my living room space. Everyone that has seen my new living room has one word, WOW! A special thank you to Michael for a wonderful experience.”

— Karen B.

“Michael was very knowledgeable and guided us, with great patience and good humor, through the process of designing our dining room and helping us find the perfect sleeper sofa. He offered really helpful advice when we asked questions - which was often - but at no time did we ever feel pushed. He helped me when I felt like I couldn’t make one more decision. When my new furniture finally arrived I realized everything down to the pillows was perfect. I couldn’t be happier!”

— Sarah H.

Michael is Principal designer and blogger at Michael Helwig Interiors in beautiful Buffalo, New York. Since 2011, he’s a space planning expert, offering online interior e-design services for folks living in small homes, or for those with awkward and tricky layouts. He’s a frequent expert contributor to many National media publications and news outlets on topics related to decorating, interior design, diy projects, and more. Michael happily shares his experience to help folks avoid expensive mistakes and decorating disappointments. You can follow him on Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook @interiorsmh.