A wide variety of issues need to be considered when designing a home; with a major one being how to illuminate it. Of course, we have many options to do so artificially these days, but nothing beats natural lighting.
Maximising the sources of natural light in your home will lead to several benefits. Firstly, it will result in reduced utility bills, and hence more money saved. Saving on energy bills is not just lighter on your pocket, but makes you socially responsible too. Using natural lighting is also a health-promoting option. This is because it promotes the production of certain brain chemicals that improve your mood. Also, it can alleviate sleep troubles.
Both architectural and design elements can help in increasing the levels of natural light in your home. Consider the following ideas when building a new home – or even when remodelling:
1.Position of the building
This is a basic step to consider when you’re thinking about increasing your home’s natural light share. Your house’s longest wall should face south. Additionally, there should be no structures or any other elements that might block sunlight from reaching the south-facing wall. When it comes to deciding which rooms should be resided in that fall alongside this wall, choose the ones that are most in use during the daytime. For example, your kitchen and living room.
2.Interior courtyards
These days, it is a common practice to add a courtyard on the side, front, or rear of a house. There are smart ways to enhance natural light with these options, but having an interior courtyard is way better for this purpose. This can be implemented in the shape of a quadrangle or horseshoe. Such an orientation effectively creates naturally illuminated interiors. Many people may not have been advised or had this option when designing the layout of their homes, but do discuss this with your hired architect if you are planning a new home.
3.Windows and doors
Windows are the obvious methods of inviting natural light into your home. Experts recommend that vertical or taller windows should be installed. This allows the light to enter more deeply into a room. The windows should be positioned to face south, east, or west for maximum benefit. This is an expensive option as compared to installing skylights, but it definitely adds great value to your property. Doors can be used for a similar purpose. Bi-fold and sliding doors opening into courtyards and gardens not only let in natural light, but create beautiful views and an overall contemporary ambience.
The problem with using large windows and doors for raking in natural light is that they can heat up a house’s interiors. This is okay in winters, but becomes a major problem during the summer – which is a long-lasting season locally. To combat this issue, homeowners invest in air-conditioning. This is obviously counter-productive to the effort of saving energy.
To fix this problem, use glazed glass for windows and doors. Blinds are also recommended as window treatments, since these are convenient for adjusting the entry of light. And they allow for greater privacy.
4.Décor updates
Here are a few décor ideas to ensure more natural light into your home:
- Install mirrors opposite windows to reflect light
- Use light colour palettes for walls, floors, ceilings, and furnishings
- Glass furniture like table tops and shelves will also help spread light
Natural light is a valuable method of making your living spaces brighter. With a naturally-lit home, you will enjoy better health and happier interiors. Share your views in the comments section below.
