A common problem for a home is the lack of light. This could be because your home is next to large buildings or because there are blocks of flats all very close together. It could be just the direction your home is facing or that the windows are very small. The issue is that light simply isn't enough.
In an era when many people are choosing to live in towns, living space per person is shrinking. As a result, our quality of life has reduced and, along with it, a reduction of light in our lives. This can have an enormous effect on our mood. So, without breaking the bank, we've got some tricks that will help you make the most of natural and artificial light in your dark home.
Gloss Over It
Before moving into a new home where natural light is in short supply, make sure you choose furniture with glossy shiny surfaces. If however, you realized the issue after the event, make sure you make the most of the glossy surfaces you already own and keep this in mind when buying new furniture.
Size is Everything
Apart from shiny surfaces, before buying furniture, another thing to think about is size. Big heavy furniture in a dark room will only create more shadow. When choosing a sofa or a bed, make sure there is a gap between the base and the floor so as to create a lighter feel.
Curtains Up
Thick or double net curtains will really prevent a lot of light reaching your living space, even when they are drawn. Always choose ultra light fabrics or lace so as to let in as much natural light as possible without compromising on privacy.
Move It
It's not only curtains that are a problem for allowing light into a room. Furniture in front of windows or tree branches just outside will also unnecessarily block out the light. If you can, move the furniture so as not to obstruct the light and allow the sun to shine in and reflect off your shiny floor! As for the trees, some pruning probably wouldn't go amiss - ecologists permitting!
Mirror Mirror………
Position mirrors opposite windows so as to make the most of the light; the bigger the mirror the brighter the light. Also consider placing a lamp in front of the mirror to maximize the light's potential. If a mirror isn't possible, then a piece of furniture with a shiny surface will do the job. Also, opt for mirrors or glass surfaces behind sinks instead of tiles which will help to reflect light throughout the room.
Make Light of It
Make the most of lighting in your room. Do not opt for just one source of light however bright. Choose lots of different types of lighting such as table lamps, floor lamps and wall lamps. This will allow you to light the area that needs brightening the most at any one time and make for an attractive scene ideal for every occasion.
Dancing on the Ceiling
The ceiling is another factor that can contribute to a well lit room. Use reflective materials and these, along with spotlights, will create a bright space. Another trick is to paint the ceiling a slightly lighter shade than the walls creating the illusion of a larger lighter space.
Keep it Light
Opt for a colour scheme of light shades so as to reflect light rather than darker shades which will absorb the light. In order to create a contrast, choose earthy tones or neutral dark shades in small doses. If you have wooden floors make sure you opt for a polished finish in light shades. Of course, the perfect way to maximize light would be to paint everything white - furniture and floors included. But we know this can be impractical and not necessarily aesthetically pleasing!
Knock Knock
Glass doors are another way to create more light in your home. The only issue is they may not be as airtight as other more conventional materials.
Keep it Clean
Dust on furniture will obstruct the reflection of light so whip out the feather duster and set to it! Concentrate on windows, work surfaces, mirrors and do not forget bulbs so as to allow light to flow in all its glory!
Go Green
Plants are always a pleasure in a home but even more so in a dark home. A plant will lend a touch of nature to your space lifting the mood and creating a lighter brighter ambience. Just be sure to choose plants that thrive in darker spaces such as spider plants, peace lilies and devil's ivy.
We hope these tips will lift the light in your home as well as your mood!
