How to maximise natural light in your home
One of the highest priorities for new home builders is making sure the home will have plenty of natural light coming into each room. No one wants to live in a home that is always dark and filled with shadows. An important part of designing your dream home is to figure out exactly how you can maximise natural light. There are certainly techniques to achieving a bright home and it’s not always as simple as just putting in a window somewhere. Don’t wait for the sunny season and make the most of having a well-lit home by making these decisions early on.
Before heading straight on to how to maximise natural light in your home, here are some of its benefits:
Fends off seasonal depression
Some people call it the ‘winter blues’ and it’s when people feel symptoms of fatigue, depression, hopelessness, and social withdrawal when there’s less sunlight at certain times of the year.
Boosts Vitamin D
Our skin absorbs vitamin D when we are exposed to sunlight. This is an important nutrient that prevents and reduces the risk of numerous health issues like bone loss, heart diseases, weight gain, and various cancers.
Save on energy bills
When your home has great natural light, you wouldn’t need to turn on so many lights especially during the day thus making you save on energy bills and it’s good for the environment.
Reduce health risks of fluorescent lighting
Generally, fluorescent lighting is considered to be safe but some people are sensitive to it and may elicit an elevated stress response.
Now that we have taken into consideration the benefits of natural light, here are ways to maximise it in your homes:
Use light colours
Light colours reflect sunlight the best and with light coloured walls, it will light up a room really well. White is always a classic choice but if you love colour, go for pastels or neutrals. Heavy shades such as black, orange, and red, absorb light the most and darken the room. These colours will limit the amount the light is able to spread throughout the room.
Make use of mirrors
Well-placed mirrors not only make a room seem bigger but it also helps lighten up a dark room. Propping up a mirror opposite where light hits can create a reflection in the room. Floor and full length mirrors have been in trend as of late and can be doubled as your robe doors, however if you prefer a more subtle effect, small photo frames and mirrors can do the trick and help draw in light.
Tame the outdoors
To have great natural lighting, they first need to reach your home. If you have large trees and bushes near your windows, make sure they are maintained well so they don’t block out the sunlight completely. If anything, it’ll provide you a better view when you look out the window when everything is in good condition.
Swap your door
Like windows, doors can also help maximise natural light by choosing one with window panels or switching to sliding glass doors. This works well for doors that lead to your backyard, garden, or balcony to prevent privacy issues so that you will be more comfortable living in your home.
Polish your windows
If this helps to remind you to clean your windows more frequently, dirty and murky windows can block out a fair amount of sunlight from entering your home. Making a habit out of cleaning and dusting them regularly will prevent build up in your windows. Also, use lightweight and sheer curtains instead and avoid heavy and dark curtains and window treatments.
Furniture placement
Making sure your room layout and where you place your furniture can help light up a room. Avoid placing anything in front of a window as it can obstruct the light from coming in. Light coloured furniture and those that have metal finishes can help create an illusion of a more spacious and well-lit room as well.
And there you have it – how to maximise natural light in your home. During your next build, work with our incredible team to pull it all together. Here at Lofty, we have been recognised for our outstanding work and have received a number of industry awards making us credible in helping you create your dream home. It all starts with a conversation. Get in touch with us today.