The shorter days of autumn and winter are coming soon, and that means the amount of natural light we get diminishes. Natural light is beneficial not only for your physical health but your mental health as well. In a time when Seasonal Affective Disorder is at its peak, maximizing sunlight in your home can help boost your mood and energy levels.
Use Sheer Curtains
While blackout drapes are fantastic for sleeping, consider opting for sheer curtains in rooms you want natural light in, like the kitchen or family room. They give privacy, while still allowing light to filter through.
Choose Your Blinds Wisely
Adjustable blinds allow you to control how much light is let into the room, and can be adjusted to account for privacy and other factors. If you’re planning to replace or add blinds, choose ones made out of material that reflect light rather than absorb it.
Mirror Strategically
When placed opposite windows, mirrors will bounce more natural light all around the room and make it appear brighter. Reflective objects will do something similar, so consider incorporating more mirrored or reflective decor pieces in your home. These can include items like glass coffee tables, metallic light fixtures, glossy picture frames, or mirrored wall art.
Keep Windowsills Clear
Keeping windowsills clear means there will be nothing to block any sunlight coming in. If possible, don’t arrange furniture pressed against a windowsill and keep larger decor pieces out of the area.
Experiment With Multiple Light Sources
Layering multiple sources of light not only amplifies the natural light but can also be adjusted to create a warm and cozy, or cool and inviting atmosphere. LED bulbs with a ‘daylight’ hue work best to complement natural light. Pair the bulbs with recessed lighting to evenly light a room and table lamps to send light to the floors and ceiling.
Remove Outdoor Obstacles.
Trees, shrubs and bushes, and other plant matter can prevent sunlight from entering your home. Keep windows clear of plants and trim down overgrown trees and shrubs.
Long-Term Changes
It is easy to maximize sunlight with a few simple design tips and tricks, but if you’re really dedicated to getting as much sunlight as possible into your home, try this:
- Light colored, high or semi-gloss paint – the glossier the paint the more light it reflects, and darker tones tend to absorb light more than lighter ones do.
- Light and airy fabrics – like paint, choose furniture that has fairer toned fabric and finishes.
- Flooring options – lighter-colored tile and wood is optimal for sunlight, and choose rugs the same way you would choose paint and fabric as well.
- Replace Doors – solid doors, or doors with just a small window block sunlight from coming in. Replace them with glass doors or ones with larger windows.
- Landscaping – light-colored paving stones and gravel will bounce more light inside. Consider adding mirrored or reflective decorative objects into your garden or around your lawn.
Are you looking to enter the real estate market this fall? Give us a call today! One of the experienced agents at Zoocasa will be more than happy to help you through the exciting home-buying process!
