Natural light is something we all crave and even more so in winter when there is so much darkness. Scandinavians get even more of their fair share of winter darkness often with 6 hours or less of daylight in winter. But this doesn’t get them down because they’ve come up with some great decor ideas that will help get more natural light into your home.
So when Tuffx glass got in touch to partner with me, I thought it would be great to share some tips on increasing natural light at home. Whether you’ve got some especially dark rooms or want to increase the natural light throughout your home, these ideas will help. I don’t know anyone who wouldn’t want more natural light in their home especially if you have some dark rooms. So I’m sharing some tips that the Scandinavian’s use, as they do it best.
7 ways to get more natural light into your home
1. Go for light, neutral decor
It’s no coincidence that Scandi’s often have white walls in their homes. White is the best colour to reflect light and gives a bright, airy feeling to any space but especially a dark room. If you’re not feeling it for white then pick another light neutral tone like pale grey or sand. And try and stick to neutrals for your furniture and furnishings too. If they can’t be replaced, used things like throws and cushion covers in light neutral tones to lighten the room.
2. Lighten the floors
Don’t stop at the walls and furniture, but go for light coloured floors that will do wonders to lighten a room – that is exactly the reason why most Scandinavian homes have light floors. Laying new floors is of course an option but if it’s not in your budget, there are other things you can do. Dark stained hardwood floors can be sanded and stained in a pale stain or you can add rugs in white/cream colours.
3. Use mirrors
Mirrors bounce light around rooms especially when hung strategically. Place mirrors opposite or adjacent to windows to maximise the light. If you have especially dark rooms, the bigger the mirror you can go for the better. And mirrors aren’t just for living spaces but can brighten kitchens, home offices, narrow hallways and more.
4. Clean your windows
This might sound obvious but so many people don’t clean their windows regularly. With clean windows you allow the maximum light to filter through the glass.
5. Consider a roof light
If you have the budget then consider adding a feature roof light in your home. Roof lights are fantastic for brightening any space. They let in double the amount of light compared to windows and they look great as a feature too.
6. Try undressed windows
So many Scandinavians leave their windows (especially living room ones) undressed because undressed windows let in the most amount of light. This may not be possible for you but if it is, it’s something that really works. And if not completely undressed, can you opt for sheer fabric curtains that let light pass through?
7. Use doors with glass
You can get all kinds of glass doors from doors made completely of glass or ones where you have a glass panel or two. Glass doors are great for letting light through especially in darker rooms and rooms without windows. So if you can opt for glass doors, you will see a difference in the amount of light you get in a room.
Even if you pick just one or two of these tips to try out, you will see more light in your room. So try something that works for your home and your rooms.
Image credits: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5
In partnership with Tuffx Glass. All ideas, tips and opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that support my blog and help me continue sharing fun ideas with you.
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