With sunny summer days right around the corner, design experts have revealed their top tips for letting natural light brighten up your home.
As any long-time fan of the lifestyle channel will tell you, ‘natural light’ is the key to turning even the gloomiest of rooms into a cozy, sunlit haven that radiates warmth and good vibes.
So in the hopes of getting homeowners ready for the summer sun, Sarah Jobse, the creative force behind house styling and interior design company Oak & Orange, has revealed some of her top tips and clever tricks to letting the light work its magic.
And according to the interior expert, the first step is an obvious one – Aussies have to find out what’s stopping light from entering their home.
“Natural light is one of the most valuable assets in any home,” says Sarah.
“A room might feel dark due to the orientation of your home, or it could be that there’s a large tree outside blocking sunlight entering the windows.
“Once you have identified your light challenges, you can start to make a plan of how to address them.”
After that is where the fun really begins. The real key to bringing brightness into any room naturally comes from your windows, but Jobse warned that to maximise their effectiveness, homeowners have to find the right blind, curtain or roller for the job.
“Choosing window treatments that allow light to filter through, like light-filtering blinds or sheer curtains, can completely transform a room,” said Sarah.
“It’s all about striking that balance between functionality and creating a bright, inviting atmosphere, and the illusion of space.”
For those searching to strike a balance between light and privacy, Jobse recommended fitting windows out with lightweight, sheer curtains, perfect for filtering sunlight while still providing privacy.
Roller blinds were another versatile option for those seeking a minimalist look without sacrificing functionality, with light-filtering fabrics that gently diffuse sunlight recommended for brightening up the space without the harsh glare – and adding a stylish touch.
For rooms like the living area or kitchen, where you might need more control over light and privacy, dual roller blinds that feature both sheer and blackout layers might be a better option.
Finding the right flooring and fixtures
But natural lighting doesn’t start and stop at the window. Jobse said that the colour and type of floor in your room can play a major part in creating the ‘feel’ of your home, with light timber floors (like oak or bamboo) reflecting sunlight better to create more inviting and spacious areas.
“Lighter-toned flooring, such as oak or pale laminate, can work wonders in amplifying natural light in a space,” she 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.”
Beyond colour, the materials you select for both window treatments and flooring also play a big part in deciding the amount of natural light in your home. Incorporating reflective materials, like polished tiles or high-gloss laminate, can enhance the light in your home by bouncing sunlight around the room.
Just keep in mind that high-gloss finishes may require more maintenance than matte finishes, as they tend to show fingerprints, smudges, and dust more easily.
Similarly, glass elements like internal doors allow light to flow freely between rooms, creating a brighter and airier atmosphere throughout your home.
Easy design tips for bringing in the brightness
- Positioning mirrors directly across from windows is a clever way to bounce light further into your space, making even the smallest or narrowest rooms feel more open and bright.
- Opt for wall colours in light tones like crisp whites, soft pastels, or gentle greys to amplify natural brightness. Pair these with light-coloured flooring and minimalist window treatments for an even greater effect.
- When privacy is a priority, but you don’t want to sacrifice sunlight, try layering sheer curtains with roller blinds. This combo offers a perfect balance, letting you adjust light and privacy as needed throughout the day.
- Choose furniture and decor in light hues to keep natural light from being absorbed, helping it spread effortlessly around the room.
- Finally, don’t let dirty windows or heavy decor on sills block your light. Keep windows spotless and free of clutter to ensure sunlight streams in at full force.
Using any or all of these strategies, Sarah said Aussies can make the most of natural light to create a home that feels bright, open, and welcoming this summer.
“Natural light has the power to transform any space, bringing warmth and positivity into a home,” she said.
“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.”
