How to Maximise Natural Light in Your Home
There are few design features that can dramatically alter the look and feel of your home like natural light.
Aside from its ability to change the aesthetic of a room, natural light can create the illusion that a space is far bigger than it actually is. Natural light has also been proven to increase serotonin levels and reduce stress. Of course, the biggest benefit of all is that natural light won’t hit you with a bill at the end of the month – another factor that may help to reduce stress!
The beauty of designing and building a new home is that you have the ability to maximise natural light in the spaces you want, so you don’t have to chase the sun all year round. Here are some strategic ways to let the light into your home.
Orientation and sunlight
When designing a house, prioritise natural light from the outset.
Many clients don’t consider the role natural light will play in their home until it’s far too late in the design process. That being said, natural light and orientation should be top of mind right from the start.
The orientation of your home will of course depend on the size and position of your block, but as a rule, the longest side of the house should face north where possible. This means the north, east and west sides of your home will catch the morning and afternoon sunlight.
If this isn’t possible, design your home so communal spaces such as living and dining areas catch the most light.
Make the most of large windows, doors and skylights
This may be obvious, but strategically placing large windows and glass doors throughout your home will allow sunlight to fill your home.
The middle of a house can often be the darkest space, so installing a skylight above the staircase, or at the centre of your home, is a great way to draw sunlight in.
Designing your home to include an abundance of windows, glass doors and skylights is not only about natural light and aesthetics, but it can also be a cost-saving mechanism. These strategically-placed features will minimise reliance on artificial lighting, and due to the warmth of the sun it may also reduce your need for the heater.
Place mirrors where light hits
Cleverly angled mirrors, including those positioned opposite windows or hallways, can also work wonders in a dark space. Mirrors play with light, and in turn create reflections, adding a sense of space and brightness to a room.
This can also be achieved by adding a chandelier or other lighting feature to a room, which will bring more light into the space. It doesn’t even need to be turned on!
If you’re considering designing and building your dream home, and want to capitlise on natural light, get in touch with the expert team at Olsson Building today!