- Follow our 4 easy décor ideas to bring brighter hues, sunshine and other light into your house. Even in rooms where adding natural light isn’t an option, these simple, effective projects may help you loosen up any space.
Use Natural Light
- Hang sheer window treatments or bamboo shades rather than heavy, dark drapes.
- Mount mirrors with bright frames on walls where they’ll reflect light and make the room feel more spacious.
- Paint the walls a light-weight shade that mimics sunlight. Dark colors absorb sunlight.
Tip: Discover our lighting guide to be told the right way to correctly incorporate lighting fixtures into your space.
Bring in White
Add brightness with the addition of white paint and accessories like white shelves, side tables, bookshelves and film frames.
- Paint molding or door frames white.
- Use white accent lamps with fluorescent bulbs that produce softer, more natural light.
- Display white ceramic pieces or decorative dishware on shelves or in a china cabinet.
- Set out white tablecloths or placemats on your kitchen or dining room.
- Place white seat cushions on chairs.
Choose Accents
Create a profound impact on how light a room feels with our decorating strategies.
- Add bursts of color with rugs, pillows, bedding or artwork. Choose accents with vibrant hues like yellow and orange.
- Fill glasses, vases or jars with bright, colored water, glass beads or marbles, and place them on a windowsill. Vary levels for visual interest.
- Mount a small lamp above a favourite piece of artwork to light up it and add subtle light.
- Add a small aquarium or tabletop fountain with lighting to include light and a water element.
- Hang polished metal or mirrored light switch plates that reflect light and add sparkle.
Cut Down Clutter
Use these space planning ideas to open up and lighten your area.
- Utilize out-of-the-way home storage spaces to aid keep surfaces, bright, clean and open.
- Purchase benches and ottomans that open for storage for larger items, and ornamental trays or containers to maintain small items from cluttering tables and countertops.
- Avoid clusters of art. One large piece at the wall will make the room appear lighter and more spacious than several smaller pieces.
- Use the least amount of furniture possible to make the room feel bigger. Follow lighter shades of wood and upholstery.