What's a good way to bring more light into my home?

Question

I live in an old farmhouse, and there aren't many windows. The ones that we have are in bad spots. So there's not much natural light in my house and it feels gloomy.

Our living room has three white walls and one fake-wood-paneled wall.

Will just painting the living room make it brighter and less gloomy?

And are there maybe lighting tricks or something that i don't know about?!

Answer 1

I had a similar situation where I live but all four walls inmy living room are wood panals, and I don't have the option of painting as I'm currently a renter.

I did 2 things to brighten up the room that helped - 1 was to increase the wattage in the overhead light fixture which helped tremendously and the other was that I found old fashioned Floor lamps and put them on either side of my couch. I searched at antique stores, estate sales, garage sales to find the ones the matched the decor of the house and have been very pleased with the results.

I also added quite a few pictures to the walls in a couple of different collages. This broke up the monotony of the walls to add some contrast so even when the room is darker, it still feels homey.

I'd also suggest using bright colors in your decorating in throw rugs or pillows.

Finally, you might consider using a bright color on the walls - something other than white - I have a friend who used a soft yellow and it did wonders for her room!

Good Luck!

Answer 2

Hang mirrors in strategic places so they reflect the windows that you do have. This will double the view and the natural light.

Keep window treatments simple and unobtrusive so you don't block what you have.

Paint a bright sunny color, or a creamy white or a pastel (note this can be a warm or a cool toned color). A glossier finish will be more reflective. Use light finishes for wood and bright or jewel tones should be the darkest you go with the main fabric colors. Of course anything dark can be used sparingly, as an accent color. Other reflectives: metallic finishes, glass. These will bounce light along in the room IF there is good lighting to start with. If not they will just look sad, like they are not fulfilling their potential.

They make light bulbs that are designed to emulate sunlight. I don't know how realistic they are but it can't hurt.

Use plenty of table lamps to keep lighting cozy at night or whenever needed.

Answer 3

mirrors can reflect light
also using silver or brushed nickel in lamps, accesories etc
use sheer curtains
paint the walls a light beige
add track lighting or lights to highlight pictures etc