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When it comes to small spaces, every design decision counts, and lighting is no exception. From enhancing functionality to setting the mood, the right lighting can transform even the tiniest room into a stylish, spacious-feeling haven.
We caught up with Ali Johnson, co-founder of London-based interiors firm Otta Design, to explore how clever lighting choices can deliver big design impact in compact spaces. Here’s what she had to say.
Credit: Jonathan Bond Photography | Shop Upton bathroom light
Especially in small rooms, every fitting has to earn its place – so lighting must be purpose-driven from the beginning,” Ali explains. That means thinking beyond aesthetics: “Understanding the multiple uses a room will have, at different times of the day, by each person living there determines what types of lighting are essential – task, ambient, accent, or a mix and how they should be layered.
– Otta Design
Relying on a lone ceiling pendant? That’s a common trap. “Only using a single pendant creates harsh shadows and uneven lighting and can make the room feel flat and gloomy – especially in corners, which will make the room feel smaller than it actually is.”
Instead, Ali recommends a layered approach: mix ambient lighting to fill the space, task lighting for practical needs, and accent lighting to highlight texture and form.
Credit: Jonathan Bond Photography | Otta Design – Townhouse Overlooking Kew Green | Shop Kitchen lighting
There’s a misconception that bold fixtures overpower small spaces. Not so, says Ali: “A statement light can absolutely work in a small space – if chosen and placed thoughtfully.”
Her rule? “Think bold, not bulky.” She adds, “A statement light works well if it is proportionate to the space so that it can draw attention without overwhelming the room… In tight spaces, a sculptural pendant or wall lights can double as art.”
In rooms with high ceilings, she suggests using hanging statement pieces to “draw the eye upward and make the room feel larger.”
So how does Otta Design approach layering light without cluttering?
“For ambient or general lighting, we use discreet plastered-in downlights, highlighting the corners and edges of the room to make it feel larger.” If ceilings are low, a flush pendant keeps things airy.
Task lighting is essential too: “We free up floor and table space by adding wall-mounted lights. We love a swing-arm lamp either side of a bed or in a reading nook – they’re adjustable and save space whilst offering flexibility.”
To build atmosphere and depth, Ali layers in accent lighting. “We use surface mounted spotlights or recessed angled downlights to highlight textures such as the curtain fabric; picture lights to highlight artwork; discreet joinery lighting to enhance architectural details; and table lamps to add a soft glow.”
Her final trick? “Positioning lighting at different heights – ceiling, eye level, and low creates depth by adding dimension and focus and feels more intentional.”
Credit: Jonathan Bond Photography | Otta Design – Clapham Common Family Home | Shop bathroom lighting
Striking the right balance between practical and decorative lighting is key. “It’s about making sure the space works well and looks intentional without one overpowering the other.”
Ali recommends choosing simple, discreet fittings for functional lighting that “fade into the background” and adding decorative lighting with purpose: “A statement pendant over a dining table, a wall light with an interesting form that lights a hallway, or a sculptural floor lamp that provides soft reading light and acts as a visual anchor without taking up much space.”
Not afraid to go against the grain, Ali challenges one popular small space “rule”: always use light colours.
“While light colours do reflect more light and can make a space feel bigger, dark or bold colours in small spaces can add drama, depth, and cosiness, especially when paired with the right lighting.” She uses contrast, texture, and layered light to keep small rooms feeling dynamic rather than flat or closed in.
Credit: Jonathan Bond Photography | Otta Design – Clapham Common Edwardian Terrace
When it comes to go-to fittings, Ali and Alex love the warmth and softness of reeded glass. “It creates a warm, ambient glow that’s easier on the eyes than clear glass and works well in both classic and contemporary interiors.”
Their top picks?
Pixley Contemporary Bathroom Wall Light with skinny glass: “Our go-to bathroom light.”
Hay Pendant with skinny glass: Recently used by Alex in her kitchen. “Discreet enough to not block the view into the garden, but characterful enough to be a focal point too.”
They’ve even collaborated on bespoke pendant designs with hopes for more in the future.
Credit: Jonathan Bond Photography | Battersea Family Home – Otta Design
To wrap up, we asked Otta Design for a few lighting quick picks:
Warm white or cool white
Statement piece or discreet lighting
Symmetry or asymmetry
Pendants or wall lights
Vintage charm or modern minimalism
If your home is short on square footage but big on personality, lighting might just be your secret weapon. From clever wall-mounted lamps that free up precious space to eye-catching pendants that double as sculptural art, the right lighting can elevate your snug spot into a standout feature. Even the most compact interiors can be transformed into extraordinary spaces.
As Ali Johnson puts it, “Balance is everything.” So go ahead… layer those lights, break a few rules, and let your tiny space shine bright.
Credit: Jonathan Bond Photography | Battersea Family Home – Otta Design
