During summer, there is nothing better than the sun shining through your windows and warmth filling your house. Depending on which way the sun rises in your property, some houses might not gain a lot of natural light throughout the day, making it feel dull. Maximising daylight creates an inviting ambience and can make a room seem bigger. Also, daylight increases our productivity and provides mental stimulation.
There are many clever tricks on hand to help make the most out of your natural daylight. Sylvia James, interior designer at HomeHow.co.uk explains how strategic designs can help to maximise the smallest amount of light in any house.
1. Minimal light fixtures
Bulky light fixtures tend to steal the show and draw attention to themselves, rather than making use of natural light reflecting through windows. While you might be tempted to install ceiling fans and other gadgets to increase the amount of light in your home, doing so could compromise the natural aesthetics of your space. Instead, opt for minimal fixtures that won’t become the room’s focal point. This approach to lighting helps create a warm, intimate ambience.
2. Add more mirrors
Mirrors are a great way to reflect indirect sunlight and increase the effect of natural light in your home whilst adding some extra style and class. Mirrors can be installed in all sorts of locations around the home including the hallway, lounge, bedroom and bathroom. Adding mirrors of different shapes and sizes can provide the illusion of a bigger room, in smaller spaces opt for square mirrors and in bigger rooms long length mirrors.
3. Angle your furniture
It’s easier to see when light is reflected from an object. This reflection brightens up the whole space just like natural lighting does. Channel the sunlight by angling your lighting towards a window or doorway. Try angling your bedside tables, lamps, and pendant lights toward a window or doorway to catch indirect light from the outside or simply use them as a spotlight for showcasing your favourite pieces.
4. Avoid blinds
Although having no window treatment might seem like a hindrance on your privacy, a dark room will benefit. An open window will allow light to fill up the entire room with no restrictions. If you want a option of window trims, lightweight curtains are a good alternative as light can reflect through the material.
5. Invest in recessed lighting
Recessed lighting is most likely installed across a room. The several lightbulbs mean there is no one central location and it saves room on your floor space. Recessed lighting is an investment but once it’s installed it can help to brighten up a room without overshadowing any natural light.
6. White window trims
Dark window trims make an entire room look dim and doesn’t allow any natural light to bounce off the colour. A wide white window trim will create the illusion of a larger window, allowing natural light to shine through.
7. Choose lighter browns
In interior design, brown is a popular choice, whether it’s floors, furniture or trimmings. When incorporating wood in your home, opt for light and warm tones as opposed to darker espresso colour palettes. If a room has dark features, light won’t be able to reflect and the room can feel empty.