With summer in full swing, now is the perfect time to let the sunshine flood into your home and make the most of those longer, brighter days.
Natural light has long been known for its ability to completely transform a home, making it feel bigger, warmer, and more inviting.
But if your living spaces resemble a dimly lit cave rather than a sun-soaked sanctuary, don’t worry; there are plenty of clever design tricks to help brighten things up.
To uncover the best ways to make the most of natural light, Build-it spoke to Sarah Jobse, the creative force behind interior design experts Oak & Orange, to get her top tips on bringing more light into your home.
Why maximising natural light is a bright idea
Making the most of natural light isn’t just about aesthetics. It can also become one of the most valuable assets in any home.
“Choosing window treatments that allow light to filter through, like light-filtering blinds or sheer curtains, can completely transform a room,” Sarah told Build-it.
“It’s all about striking that balance between functionality, creating a bright, inviting atmosphere, and the illusion of space.”
Benefits of boosting natural light in your home:
✔️ Lower energy bills: More daylight means less reliance on artificial lighting, cutting down on electricity costs.
✔️ Improved mood & productivity: Studies show that natural light boosts mood and energy levels, creating a happier, more productive home environment
✔️ Added property value: A well-lit home is more appealing to buyers, giving your property an instant edge on the market.
“Natural light has the power to transform any space, bringing warmth and positivity into a home,” Sarah told Build-it.
“With a few thoughtful choices, like light-filtering window treatments and reflective surfaces, you can completely change how a space feels—making it not just brighter, but more inviting and comfortable for everyday living.”
By creating bright, airy spaces, vendors can help a room appear larger to buyers and instantly improve a home’s flow and atmosphere.
So if you’re ready to ditch the gloom and embrace the glow, here’s how you can boost natural light in your home.
By combining these simple design strategies, you can harness the power of natural light to create a home that feels brighter, bigger, and more inviting.
Lighten up your window decor
Windows are the main source of natural light, but heavy curtains and block-out blinds could be blocking the very thing you’re trying to invite in.
For a sleek, minimalist look, roller blinds in light-filtering fabrics diffuse sunlight without the harsh glare, while dual roller blinds let you switch between sheer and blackout layers for total control.
“The key to bringing in more light is choosing window treatments that amplify, rather than block, natural sunlight,” says Sarah.
“Striking a balance between light and privacy can be challenging, but lightweight, sheer curtains are perfect for filtering sunlight while still providing privacy.”
Reflect light with flooring & surfaces
Your choice of flooring plays a huge role in how much light bounces around your home.
Glossy materials like polished tiles and high-gloss laminate can enhance brightness but require more upkeep than matte finishes to maintain their reflective effect.
“Lighter-toned flooring, such as oak or pale laminate, can work wonders in amplifying natural light in a space,” Sarah said.
“It reflects sunlight beautifully, creating a sense of openness and airiness. Paired with reflective surfaces and strategic window treatments, you can make even the smallest room feel much brighter and more spacious.”
Add mirrors and glass
A well-placed mirror can double the amount of natural light in a room by reflecting it deeper into the space.
Place mirrors opposite windows to bounce light around, and consider glass-panelled doors to let sunlight flow between rooms.
Paint with light tones
Dark walls absorb light, making rooms feel smaller and more enclosed. Instead, opt for light, neutral shades like soft whites, greys, or pastels to reflect more light and make spaces feel airy and open.
Keep windows clear & uncluttered
Dirty windows and overcrowded sills can seriously block natural light.
Keep glass spotless, and avoid bulky decor that obstructs sunlight from entering.
With just a few thoughtful design choices, you can make the most of natural light, ensuring your home feels brighter, more open, and effortlessly inviting.
Maximise natural light in your home with these bright ideas
