Ways To Boost The Natural Light In Your New Home

Posted on: 31 May 2019

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Abundant natural daylight transforms the feel and comfort of a home, making it more pleasant and inviting. A few simple tricks can help to brighten a room by making the most of existing light and also allowing more in.

Create Light Coloured Walls And Surfaces

Paler walls make a room appear larger by bouncing light around, whereas dark surfaces absorb light to give an overall dimmer impression. So when choosing a paint shade, consider light greys, taupes or pastel tones over deeper tones. If you prefer more vibrancy, why not paint an accent wall or a small nook with a pop of colour? In a kitchen, light cabinetry, benchtops and splashbacks will also function as excellent reflectors.

Allow More Light In

Focus on letting in the most possible daylight. Avoid heavy window dressings, sticking with soft colours, and make sure that cabinetry or other furniture is not blocking incoming illumination from windows. Why not consider a skylight, which potentially allows in up to three times the light of a vertical window of a similar size? While a vertical window receives reflected light from the ground and other objects outside, a skylight typically receives direct light from the sky. Builders can advise on the best position of windows, taking into account the way your home is angled on the block.

Another option is to invest in glass-panelled external and internal doors, which let in sun rays from outside and reflected light from adjacent rooms. This switch to glass panelling removes a sizeable opaque area that was once blocking light. If privacy is a concern, consider frosted glass, which blurs and softens the view.

Consider The Flooring

A room's flooring is also important to its overall illumination. Polished timber or ceramic are excellent reflectors. The rough surface of carpet, though, will not bounce back much brightness at all. Of course, other factors, such as its softness and warmth, come into play also when selecting flooring material.

Choose Decor Carefully

Finally, don't forget about the effect that decor can have. Metallic or shiny finishes on light fixtures and furniture add to the reflection dynamics within the room. You can further increase this by using mirrors or glass elements. Place a mirror opposite or beside the window so it reflects and multiplies the incoming illumination to amplify the effect. Don't forget about large furniture items such as chairs and couches; pale grained timbers and soft colours will most assist your endeavour of a brighter home.