Regardless of whether you live in a large home that has a dark interior or a small apartment with simply one window, follow these suggestions to bring in more sunshine – or at a minimum make it look that way.
Paint it light and bright.
Tips on how to Lighten up a Dark Home
Colors and values aren’t anything more than the light that reaches our eyes after bouncing off objects.
The astounding benefit of white would be that it reflects the majority of the light that hits its surface, creating the illusion of light. Just to illustrate: that glowing ball in the sky we call the moon.
Paint colors that happen to be saturated yet light in value produce a similar effect, while lending their own distinctive personalities to a space.
Maintain the contrast
A kitchen with white cabinets, countertops, walls and backsplashes is about as bright as it gets, however the absence of variety can leave the actual effect a tad dull.
To help keep things interesting, introduce contrast. Choose accessories, cookware and decorations in your favorite color, or perhaps choose an entire palette.
Sneak in some style and personality using a colorful mosaic backsplash, or add drama to the scene with dark furniture, picture frames or patterns.
Strategically place mirrors
Mirrors cannot make a room look brighter by themselves, though there is some truth to the mirror myth, since they’re excellent at reflecting natural light in rooms that already receive it.
Don’t expect to get exactly the same effect in dim hallways and bathrooms, though, mainly because it does no good to copy a dim view. So, don’t wait – replace those huge panels of mirrored glass in your bathroom with more attractive framed mirrors. You won’t miss out in the end.
Install new windows
Yes, installing a complete window or two may be the nuclear option, but if your home is so dim that you’re required to keep the lights on throughout the day, then it may very well be taking a toll on your utility bills – or perhaps your mental well-being!
This isn’t a decision to take lightly (no pun intended), so speak with a contractor to go over options and pricing prior to deciding to break out that sledgehammer. There’s a chance you’re better off installing a skylight or light tubes.
Eliminate glare
Sometimes the issue isn’t the quantity of light, but rather the quality. Overhead lights can brighten up a room, however the effect is harsh as high-noon sunlight.
Instead, you would like the diffuse, indirect light of early morning. Place lights close to the walls, and place LED strips under cabinets to cover the wall in a soft glow. You’ll want to include task lighting wherever it’s needed most, such as the home office or wherever you need to read and work.
Rethink window treatments
In the event your curtains cover up a lot of the window, replace them with something less obstructive. Sheer and semisheer window treatments let in an abundance of light, without having to sacrifice privacy throughout the day.
If you’re fed up with pulling up the Venetian blinds or plantation shutters every day, replace them with blackout window treatments you are able to open completely during the day and close at night.
Brighten the view outside
Maybe you’re too busy concentrating on the indoors to see the forest for the trees. But all of the trees and overgrown foundation shrubs can block natural light from reaching the house, so cut those bushes and trim those tree limbs. When necessary, call an arborist.
Also, use plants with variegated or silver leaves in your landscape to reflect light indoors, and think about renovating your patio and paving it with something brighter.
Replace doors
Doors present an excellent opportunity to let in more light, enhance the view from inside and make the entry more welcoming.
Since your front door is a reflection of your home’s personality, as well as your own, select a style that’s appropriate to the architecture. If you’re worried about privacy, select one with stained glass or small windows at the top. Even a little bit of natural light can make a significant difference.
Clean windows
It ought to be obvious, however when was the last time you cleaned all your home’s windows, both inside and out?
To prevent streaks on outdoor surfaces, don’t worry about the window cleaner and paper towels. Wash the windows using a sponge and mildly soapy water (dish soap will work), wipe dry using a squeegee, and finish them off with a soft chamois.
Then when you are done, it may be time to consider selling your home. Since the prices here in the Tampa Bay area are rising and there is a severe lack of homes for sale right now.
Prepared to discover what your beautifully staged home might fetch on the market? Contact Nick, Cindy & Nicholas Davis with RE/MAX Premier Group. We are always a just a click here away or call 813-300-7116