When it comes to lighting, it’s best to aim for the middle ground. Too much natural light can cause glare or distraction, while too little feels deflating. Here are a few simple ways to invite daylight into your home using the correct design elements.
Window Treatments
You can’t change your home’s outdoor lighting, but you can decide how to use it. Consider the following window treatments to improve indoor lighting.
Cellular Shades
Sometimes known as honeycomb shades, this style is available in sheer and light-filtering fabrics for maximum daylighting. For light control and privacy, choose a top-down/bottom-up shade that allows the shade to open from the top or the bottom. If you’re looking for the ultimate daytime/nighttime solution with complete coverage, duo cellular shades will do the trick by combining two different opacity cellular shade fabrics into one shade.
Panel Systems
This window treatment is excellent for larger surface areas or separation between spaces. The panels themselves move along a track and stack neatly in place when open. Select light or sheer fabric colors for outside views and reduced glare. Because of their size and mobility, these floor-to-ceiling systems offer optimal lighting control.
Roller Shades
Roller shades are an excellent choice for maximizing natural lighting, thanks to the wide variety of fabric and control options. They can feature outdoor views and anti-glare protection or provide complete privacy at night. This clean and contemporary pick puts natural lighting front and center.
Transition Shades
Sometimes called zebra shades, this style includes alternating horizontal sheer and opaque bands of fabric that transition past each other. Enjoy view-through and partial shade when the vanes are open or close the shade for even color and light distribution and complete privacy.
Woven Wood Shades
Wood suggests a thick or impenetrable material but don’t let the name fool you. As with other window treatments, the material, color, and opacity vary considerably. These artisanal shades are made of reed, bamboo, grass, paper, and jute for a wood-like feel. Experience a soft, diffused light and textured nature-inspired appearance.
Interior Design Techniques
Maximizing your light is also a matter of interior design. Here are a few ways to create the illusion of light indoor spaces. •Go glossy. Incorporating shine in your décor reflects light into the space. Include glass accents, polished furniture, or other glazed surfaces to even out darker days. •Add mirrors. One way of expanding your light is by doubling its appearance. For a minimalist approach, opt for decorative mirrors or reflective accents. •Embrace white. Darker rooms may benefit from lighter colors or shades of white. Alternatively, add white furniture, fabrics, or décor to your interior. •Rethink flooring. Add some lightness from another surface by switching to a colorful area rug. While flooring and lighting are different, they contribute to the big picture. •Rearrange furniture. Your current arrangement may block out light. Move bulky pieces away from the window to let the light in. •Change frames. Many homes feature wooden window frames in medium or dark colors. Instead, try white indoor window frames for a touch of brightness. •Incorporate metallics. Gold or silver accents make a room feel lighter and more spacious. Add metallic fabrics, furniture, or décor for a slightly lighter look.
•Open up. If you’d like more light on the top floor, a skylight might be the answer. There’s no substitute for unobstructed overhead lighting.
•Look outdoors. Removing overgrown shrubs or trimming shrubs back will allow more natural light to flow into a room.
Final Thoughts
Believe it or not, incorporating natural light is easier than you think. Something as simple as a different window treatment or strategic design concept makes a difference when maximizing how natural light flows into a room design.
If you’re looking for customized window treatments, T. Lynn’s can assist with finding the ideal solution for your home that is on-trend and within budget. We offer a comprehensive collection of blinds, shades, and draperies. Call 715-441-7997 today to schedule a FREE, in-home consultation, or go to tlynns.com and contact us.
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