subject: Six Tips Which Will Shine New Light On Your Home [print this page] While this chimes with our wish to make our homes far more places we want to enjoy and get the most from, it does have ramifications for energy use and our carbon footprint. And of course, both of these are rightly coming under increased scrutiny as we begin to realise that power is not a limitless resource.
Our wish to create these havens, into which we can escape from the outside world, also overlooks the important role which natural light can play in transforming what might otherwise be a dull and uninspiring interior into one which is warm and welcoming. So here are six pointers for making the most of natural light in a house, which could change the way we look at our homes:
Investigate the new types of windows and doors available today. These are much more energy-efficient than even just a few years ago, and modern designs accentuate the natural light which enters a house, making it appear far brighter and more vibrant.
Consider the option of repainting walls in neutral or soft pastel colours. There is a massive choice of such shades available today, and the right choice of shade can even revitalise your existing furniture by helping the light show it off in a different way.
Keep porches, conservatories or other entrance areas to the house free from clutter to allow light to flood in during the day. Any curtains, drapes or blinds should also be opened in daytime to make it easier for the light to do its work.
Use mirrors to reflect natural light well beyond the point where it enters the house. A tall mirror on the wall of a porch will bounce light through into adjoining hallways or rooms, making them seem much brighter too.
With both mirrors and transparent glass surfaces, cleaning them regularly will have a massive effect on how bright the house appears at all times. Time invested in keeping them clean will give everyone more enjoyment.
Look at new ways of adorning your windows which, rather than restricting the flow of light through them, make it easier. Blinds, shades and curtains can be used to give you ultimate control over the amount of sunlight which seeps into the house.
Most of these tips involve little work, and can be implemented in a short time at modest or no cost. So with weathermen forecasting another long, bright summer, now is the time to be taking steps to let the light shine in on your home.
