There is no doubt that natural light boosts the entire aesthetic of a room. Research shows that exposure to daylight can improve mood and wellbeing, including mental, emotional, and physical health while making the house look brighter and pleasant.
Figuring out a way to include natural light in your home can be tricky, especially if you have no idea how to start. Here are some affordable ways to allow this:
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Light Walls
Switch out dark wallpapers for light shades of white or pale paint. This will help make your home feel brighter and bigger as the natural light reflects off the walls instead of absorbing it.
However, don’t slap on layers of bright white paint, as this can make your home feel cold and hospital-like. Instead, choose an off-white shade. You can also paint the ceiling a few shades lighter than the surrounding walls. This helps make the room look wider in space and height. Paint with a satin finish will work perfectly, rather than paint with a matte finish.
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Shiny Surfaces
Don’t be scared to add some shiny surfaces on units in your bathroom or kitchen. This will help reflect light into the room, making the space look more welcoming and brighter.
When renovating your kitchen, choose a light color scheme for the walls and cabinet doors. This will allow natural light to bounce off the surface, making the kitchen look more spacious. Of course, you don’t only have to stick to off-white or cream shades. You can also opt for pale blue or grey to jazz things up.
In the rest of the house, get some furniture and accessories that have a reflective surface. These will help diffuse some of the natural light infiltrating the room. Choose between glass and metal surfaces that will make your home look stylish as well.
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Flooring
Never underestimate the power of the correct flooring. If you are looking to boost natural light in your home, opt for light-friendly flooring options, such as wood, ceramic, and stone floors.
These floors come with a polished, glossy finish that will reflect back light, as compared to dark carpets. However, if you absolutely need to get a carpet, choose a light one that has a neutral color.
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Greenery
Never underestimate the power of plants outside your home (and even inside!) Greenery can make your house look brighter naturally, allowing a comfy feel.
Allow plants to grow near your doors and windows. Climbing plants look the best as they add to the home aesthetic as well. Trim and water them often so that they continue to thrive.
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Glass
If you are willing to spend a little bit, adding more glass indoors can make a world of difference to the light inside your home. Install big new windows and glass doors to allow more natural light to penetrate in.
You can also opt for bi-folding doors instead of walls. This will also give you a beautiful view of the outdoors, with the perfect sunsets.