How Can I Let More Light In?

 No, we’re not talking about leaving all the lights on and running up your energy bill! We’re discussing good ol’ natural light. Increasing the natural lighting in your home can be transformative for your space. A lack of natural light can quickly begin to affect your mental and physical well-being, and if you’ve ever been inside a room with no windows then you know how strange and off-putting it can feel. On the other hand, rooms with a lot of natural light feel bright, positive, and uplifting. 

So if there are any rooms in your home you wish had more natural light, there are several ways you can let more light in:

  • Paint your walls and ceilings white. While darker colors can be interesting and feel cozy, they also make your space feel more cramped. White is a fantastic color because it reflects light and it makes your space feel bright and open. Plus, you can always add pops of color when you decorate. 
  • Hang mirrors on walls that are opposite of your windows. You can use reflective surfaces to strategically bounce light around your rooms, especially smaller rooms where you don’t have a lot of space. Perhaps you have a small bathroom and want it to feel larger and brighter – simply hang a mirror on the wall opposite of your bathroom mirror, and notice the difference. 
  • Be strategic when arranging your furniture. Our top recommendation is not to block your windows with large, bulky pieces of furniture like a sofa or an armchair. Instead, leave the space in front of the window free from obstructions, or maybe place a smaller piece of furniture there if you must. 
  • Opt for light colored curtains and blinds. Darker colored window treatments will absorb all the light, preventing it from brightening up your space. 

The Benefits of Increased Natural Light In Your Home 

  • Makes the space feel larger. Even the smallest studio apartment can feel bigger with more natural light. If you struggle with feeling like you have enough space, we know you’ll be amazed at the difference more natural light can make.
  • Boosts your mood. As mentioned above, being in a space with no natural light can negatively affect your mental and physical health. One of the causes of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a lack of sunlight, and the vast majority of people feel happier and more positive when they are regularly exposed to natural light. 
  • Increases the value of your home. Homes that feel bright and spacious are extremely attractive to potential buyers. Especially, if you live somewhere with nice weather – that’s the cherry on top! 

How a Residential Architect Can Help Let the Light In

If you’ve followed our recommendations above and still want to let more natural light into your home, a local residential architect can help. They are experienced working with a wide range of different spaces and design styles, and it may be possible to transform your home without tearing down any walls. Plus,, if they are local to the area you live in, they will know the general weather conditions and optimize on how sunlight hits your home. 

For more information about cost-effective ways to create more natural lighting in your home, or if you have any other home remodeling questions, please contact our team at Seth A. Leeb Architect today or visit us at: https://leeb-architecture.com/home-remodeling-architect-nj/

This blog was originally published at https://leeb-architecture.com/how-can-i-let-more-light-in/

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