During the summer months, many of us want our homes to feel light, bright, open, and full of fresh air. That’s typically easy with the prolonged amount of sunlight we have access to. But making the most of natural light during the summer can be challenging, especially if you don’t know where to start. Fortunately, we have some tips for creating a bright and inviting atmosphere in your home while reducing energy costs.
Here are some ways you can maximize natural light in your home this summer.
Use sheer curtains
If you were using heavy or room-darkening curtains before, replace them with sheer curtains to allow maximum sunlight into the space. Sheer fabrics can still diffuse harsh sunlight; however, they create a softer, more pleasant vibe in a room. Additionally, sheer curtains and blinds provide privacy without sacrificing natural light.
Strategically place mirrors
Did you know mirrors can help add light to a room? It’s all about where you place them, says a Birmingham, AL, interior decorator. Consider where you get the most natural light, then place mirrors in those sections to amplify the light in that area. As a bonus, mirrors can help make any space feel larger. So in addition to adding light, you’re making the room double in size with an optical illusion. One of the most effective ways of achieving more space and light is to position mirrors across from windows. This technique can help distribute light to darker corners.
Use adjustable window treatments
In addition to sheer curtains, use adjustable window treatments to control how much sunlight comes into the room at any given time. To achieve this, install blinds or shades which you can fully open during the day. If privacy or sun glare is a concern, you always have the option to partially or completely close them. But when maximizing natural light is the goal, adjustable window treatments are a lifesaver.
Play with light colors in your decor and on your walls
Use light-colored furniture, wall colors, and accessories to maximize the reflection of natural light in the room. Lighter shades of white, cream, and pastel colors have a higher light-reflectance value, which means they can bounce more light around a space. Additionally, this type of color palette helps creates an airy and open ambiance, even in rooms with limited windows.
Keep your windows clean
The cleanliness of your windows might be the last thing on your mind, especially when you’re thinking about your home’s interior design. However, dirt, dust, and grime on windows can hinder the amount of natural light entering a room. Regularly cleaning your windows inside and out can ensure maximum light gets through them. Clean windows also improve the clarity of the view, allowing you an unobstructed connection with your yard.
Trim your outdoor foliage
In addition to keeping your windows clean, keep the trees, bushes, and foliage surrounding them in tip-top shape. Pruning or thinning out foliage that blocks windows can significantly improve natural light penetration. Not only that, but when nothing is blocking natural light from entering your home, it reduces your need for artificial lighting, which helps cut your energy costs.
Remember, each home is unique. The amount of natural light you’ll be able to harness will vary, but these decorating tips can help you get the most out of the sunlight you have. Experiment with these ideas to find a balance that suits your needs and enhances the summer ambiance in your home.
