subject: Effective Ways to Brighten Dark Spaces [print this page] Effective Ways to Brighten Dark Spaces Effective Ways to Brighten Dark Spaces
A dark room or space can offer some unique challenges to those who are trying to brighten it up. However, with the right lighting tips and an understanding of how various types of light work together to meet illumination needs, that dark, drab area can be transformed into an enjoyable and functioning place to relax and regenerate.
One of the first things to consider in a dark space is the color used. Darker shades of paint and furniture color can drastically affect the mood of the room and rob it of brightness. If this is the case with your area, try painting the walls and ceiling a brighter color and replace dark furnishings with those that are either lighter in wood color, or have brighter fabrics. Dark carpet is another item which can be replaced to lighten up a space, or even removed to allow exposure to wood flooring which can be refinished with a brighter stain. If you have windows in the room, use light colored or sheer curtains.
Overhead fixtures, such as large surface mount, pendant, track, or recessed lights, can add the ambient lighting necessary to give an overall glow to the room. Most of these fixtures can be hooked up to a dimmer switch to allow mood modification so that the space can be utilized for various activities.
In large rooms, overhead lighting may not be enough, and in small rooms, it may not be necessary. In these cases, accent lighting should be considered to help bring the space to life. Colorful table lamps or floor lamps can be used, not only to add extra illumination, but to highlight certain areas of the room, or to draw attention to prized and unique items. A Torchiere lamp can be used to reflect light off of a white ceiling, or a large mirror will radiate extra light into the space from wall sconces placed on either side.
If the space is used for task oriented activities, like reading, sewing, writing, studying, etc, utilize task lighting to help illuminate the work area and reduce eye strain. Which lighting fixture and bulb you select will depend on your specific need. However, many types of task lights can be strategically hidden from sight while providing the strength of light needed to successfully complete the task.
Obviously, brightening up a dark room is not as easily as adding an extra lamp. Changing the colors of the room, as well as effectively layering various types of lighting, are helpful in order to create a brighter area which can be enjoyed and not ignored.
