Whether your ceilings are low or high, or your space is small or spacious, it is important to select and choose furniture that is the appropriate size and scale.

When furnishing a space, so often the focus is on style and color.

Furniture selections are made for aesthetic reasons, as opposed to considering the critical aspect of how the furniture will actually feel in the space.

In living areas that are large and cavernous, oversize pieces will likely be successful; they are needed to help fill the room. In general, if your space is oversize, choose pieces that are heavier to help add weight to the room. Wooden decor and upholstered furniture will be more inviting than transparent surfaces such as glass. Conversely, if you have a small home, you will need to add a sense of spaciousness. Look for furniture that is smaller in scale so the space doesn’t feel overstuffed.

These dos and don’ts can help you keep size and scale in mind when decorating.

Do

Select shorter furniture if you have low ceilings. Tall pieces will close the room in and make the ceilings feel even lower.

Use light colors rather than darker tones in small areas; lighter colors open up a space.

Carefully consider the proper amount of furniture for your space. Buying an entire set often is not necessary; for many people, it is simply too much furniture.

Have a cohesive color scheme. Tying pieces together using color can help a space feel cohesive.

Select furniture and accessories that are timeless as opposed to trendy. Classic items are more long-lasting.

Don’t

Forget the power of mirrors. Mirrors, especially in darker spaces, can reflect light and brighten the room.

Be afraid to use oversize artwork. If you have tall ceilings, oversize artwork hung in twos or threes can be very attractive.

Overstuff a space. Often, rooms that don’t work well are jam-packed with furniture and decor. Remove the excess.