Does you home feel dark? Do you wish you had more light in your home. This could be because of the positioning of your home e.g. north facing, or your window size is small, limiting the amount of light that comes into your space. How do you introduce more light into you space? There are a variety of ways that you can do this. Three ways that you can do this without costing a fortune are:
- Paint - Changing the paint color in your room has a huge impact. Go for lighter color's such as white, off white, beige or other natural color tones. When choosing a paint color, choose a warmer tone. Avoid a tone that feels cold, while bringing in light, keep it warm, this will make the space feel more cozy. Also think about the finish of the paint e.g. matt, egg shell, satin, semi gloss, gloss. Satin and Semi gloss are great options as they maximize light reflection and can make the space feel more brighter and open. Satin finishes have a soft glow and can subtly enhance natural and artificial light without the glare.
- Mirrors - Mirrors are a great way to make a space feel brighter as they can easy reflect light. Positioning a mirror is a brighter space or close to a window can reflect more natural light into the darker part and give a more airy feel. You can also place it close to a lighting source - table lamp, wall sconce, etc. for the same effect. Larger mirrors will give more light than smaller one, so where ever possible go for a larger one. If the frame of the mirror has a metallic finish e.g. chrome, gold, silver, brass this will also enhance the light reflection. Think strategically when placing your mirror, as this also has the effect of making the space feel bigger and more airier. Place a mirror at the end of a hallway is another great option.
- Lighting - Lighting is very important in a room and will help to enhance the feeling in a room. Close from different sources e.g. Ambient Lighting, Task lighting and accent lighting. Ambient lighting is the main source of lighting - ceiling lights, track lighting or recessed lighting. This lighting is important for illumination so check to ensure that your bulbs are the right wattage - if this is not sufficient you will get a dull and poorly lit room. The added advantage to these light sources is that they can be dimmable, by swapping out your light switch for a dimmable one allowing for great flexibility depending on the time of the day. Task lighting on the other had provides a source of lighting in smaller spaces, e.g. desk top or bedside table. They provide specific lighting to that part of the space your are working at. Again make sure you have the right bulb in place. Many companies provide light bulbs that are dimmable without the need to switch out you light fitting e.g amazon and IKEA are get sources for this. Lastly, accent lighting will enhance a specific part of your space e.g. a light over a picture, lighting under cabinets, or wall sconces. Accent lighting should be 3 times brighter than ambient lighting for maximum effect. In the end, it is always recommended that you layer all three whenever possible, this creates interest, and greater flexibility for lighting your home.
Check out our lighting for ideas to enhance your home.