The seasons change and the days are getting shorter. This can make your home feel dark. The once lively haven now seems to suck the energy right out of you. You may be tempted to curl up in a warm blanket and await spring’s arrival. We’ve got the perfect tips to easily brighten up your home. Say goodbye to the blanket cocoon – it’s time to bring some light back into your life.
Tip #1: Hunt for the Sunshine
First things first, let’s track down the rooms that receive the most sunshine. South and East-facing windows bask in sunlight. The North windows are not that lucky. Identifying the light-deprived areas before you embark on your mission to illuminate, will make the process a little easier.
Tip #2: Paint Your Way to Radiance
Sure, light-colored paint is a go-to for brightening up spaces. However, it’s not just about the color. You also need to think about the sheen.
While painting rooms a lighter color is a great start, avoid flat paints. This is because they soak up all of the light, which makes your home feel dark. There are two options we recommend: an eggshell sheen or satin. If you go with an eggshell sheen, it will cast off any additional light, effortlessly making the space feel brighter. Want to go up a level? Satin walls are known to increase the reflective quality. It can be a bit of a slippery slope because the last thing you want is your home to look shiny.
Tip #3: Selecting Design Elements
Dark floors might be the epitome of chic, but they can cast a shadow over your entire space. Thus, it makes your home feel dark. Balance the darkness with light-colored area rugs. Not only will this add dimension to your space, but fabrics are your best friend when it comes to dark areas in your home.
Another thing to remember is that wall decor matters! If your space feels dark, opt for a well-placed mirror or even a wall of mirrors. This will greatly impact the light in your space.
Tip #4: Light Paradox
Who knew that the idea of light can make your home feel dark. It’s a thing! Those East and South-facing rooms are flooded with light. This actually creates dark “zones” in your house. An excellent way to manage this is by using window treatments. They control the light without always blocking it out–allowing you to customize the way the sunlight enters. We’ve got examples for you…
Sheer Shades
Sheer shades filter the light, creating a soft, glowing atmosphere. Now, it depends on the collection of sheers. There are other features that exist. They include sheer shades that allow you to directionally control the vanes so have the power to adjust how light enters the space.
Top Down Bottom Up
Imagine you’re trying to enjoy your living room, but it’s flooded with light. The area is filled with harsh UV rays, the temperature is rising and there is a persistent glare that feels like it will never go away. With Top Down Bottom Up shades, you are in control. If you lower from the top, light enters across the ceiling. This keeps the bright light at bay. This is a great option for those endlessly bright rooms.
Dual Shades
When you want a balance of filtered light and scenic views, having translucent window shades is fantastic for reducing glare and gently diffusing incoming light. However, excessive brightness may drive you away from your favorite place in your home during specific times of the day. This is where dual shades come in. They provide the flexibility to lower a secondary blackout shade exactly when you want and need it the most.
Tip #5: Bring Us In
Does your home feel dark? Our team at Bazaar Home Decorating is here to save the day. Say goodbye to the struggle of trying to control the natural light without making your home feel dark. Contact us today for your FREE in-home consultation!
