One of the main challenges of this time of year is getting enough light. After all, when you get enough light, you tend to feel happier and more energized. We’ve talked about ideal window treatments for making the most of natural light and some great Fall color trends to energize your room, but we what else can you do to make your living space bright this winter?
Mirror, Mirror
Source: For the Love of a House, via Pinterest.
One of the easiest ways to brighten your living room is to add a large mirror to the space. This effectively doubles the amount of light in the room, whether it’s the natural light coming in the windows, the light from the fixture, or the light from candles and the fireplace. To make the most of it, be sure the mirror reflects the window or source of light. The larger the mirror the better.
Source: The Design Ark
You can have a lot of fun with mirrored decor. This mirror tapestry by Lee Borthwick is a unique twist on the standard mirror. Mirrored accent tables are also a fashionable trend right now and help lighten up the look of a room.
Add light to your walls
If you’re serious about keeping things light and airy during the year-round, it’s best to paint your walls in a lighter color. White, cream, pale blue or aqua are all good choices. Yellow-based whites and creams will create a slightly warmer effect, while blue and grey-based white will feel cooler. Deep red walls may seem appropriately cozy for winter but they can cause you to feel sluggish during dark days. If you love cozy colors like rich oranges, browns, and reds, introduce them in accent pieces, like rugs, throws, and pillows or add extra lighting and artwork to lighten up the room. For more tips on adding bold color to your room, check out our Fall Color Trends post.
Nix the heavy drapery
Although it may seem counterintuitive, do not cover your living room windows in heavy draperies during the winter months, at least not if you’re concerned about getting enough light. Instead, choose sheer shades like the Silhouette or Pirouette fabric shades, which make the most of natural light by diffusing it throughout the room during the day and closing the fabric vanes at night. They are available in a safe cordless version, which is perfect if you have small children or pets in your home. Window coverings don’t have to be heavy to be energy efficient. White shutters or lighter-colored Duette honeycomb shades can be light and bright while also being very energy efficient..
Natural wood
Source: Seventy Nine Ideas
Natural wood is very much on trend this year and wood naturally evokes warmth to a room. Notice the pale wood of the floor, chair, and accent table in this image from Seventy Nine Ideas. The natural and white-washed finishes are perfect with the lighter color décor theme. Faux fur rugs and chunky knit pillows and throws add cozy warmth to the room for the winter and can be replaced with lighter fabrics in the summer.
How will you make your living room feel light, bright, and warm during the winter months?
