How to Brighten a Dark Room Through Decorative Changes

There is nothing worse than living in a dark and gloomy house. If anything, it makes the people living in that home feel sad and miserable.

To help get you out of that misery, we have presented you with some helpful advice on how to brighten a dark room through decorative changes.

Windows

The first step to making sure you get as much light into your dark room as possible, is to check your windows

When your windows start to get old, it can bring the appearance of your room down, making it appear older and darker than it may really be.

If you are experiencing draughty windows or windows that are in need of repair, invest in getting new windows installed with a lovely white frame to boost the appearance of your room.

If it is simply the case that your window frames need a lick of paint, opt for a glossy white paint to draw attention to those windows.

Meanwhile, it is important to keep those windows clean so you can receive the maximum benefits of having windows.

Lighting

It is important to ensure you have the right kind of lighting in your room. Certain types of lighting, such as fluorescent lighting can actually have a harsh effect on the room, bringing out the room’s dark corners.

Make sure you get a nice light and bright light bulb, choose a neutral colour lamp shade or go for a chandelier.

Meanwhile, strategically placing lamps in the darkest areas of your room will help lighten the place up.

For instance, installing spotlights on the underside of your cupboards can lighten up your kitchen area and make it easier for you when preparing meals.

Additionally, never underestimate candles. When you have guests over, why not place some candles on the side to help lighten the area up and to give your room a cosier atmosphere.

Paint Colours and Colour Schemes

The colour scheme of your room is highly important and has the biggest effect on the rest of your room.

It is recommended that you stick to light or neutral colours in your room, such as painting your room in a magnolia, a baby blue or a light pink or yellow.

Additionally, select a matt paint rather than a glossy paint for your room. Not only will your room appear brighter, but if you were to choose a glossy paint, it would enhance any imperfections on your wall.

Sometimes, depending on what appearance we are after for a particular room, we feel the need to use dark colours. Should this be the case, why not do a feature wall instead?

Meanwhile, if it is not the walls that are bringing the room down, it is the ceiling, especially if you have dark wooden beams. If this is the case for you, paint your ceilings and the beams white.

Furniture and Accessories

Traditional or contemporary furniture makes up your room, so it is vital you select the right pieces to bring out the best that your room can offer.

Light coloured window coverings will draw attention to your window and the light that is coming through it.

Window blinds and shutters also help to evenly spread the light across the room and give the room light a softer effect. Choosing to install the popular window treatments of plantation shutters will also increase your property value.

Light coloured furniture will help make the room appear brighter and lighter.

Knicks and knacks are okay to have out on display, but try and not put too many out and to make sure they fit in with your room’s colour scheme and appearance.

Sticking to the minimalistic approach is always best if you are aiming for a bigger and brighter looking room.

Shiny surfaces, such as your table, cupboards and shelves, will help reflect the light around your room.

Carpets and rugs should be of light colours, especially if you have for instance, dark coloured floor boards.

Finally, try and keep those wires tucked away and out of sight, to keep your room looking clean and tidy.

Mirrors and Reflection

Placing a mirror on a wall opposite the window in your room can really help and not only make your room look brighter through reflecting the light, but also make your room appear bigger.

Trees

One annoying problem that you may be experiencing, is trees outside your window, blocking all of the sunlight from entering your home.

Don’t tolerate this problem if you can do something about it. If the tree is on your property, then either trim the branches back so that you can experience that lovely summer sunshine, or get the tree cut down.

A Dark Room Can be Cosy

When all else fails and you cannot lighten that room, or you don’t want to go through the hassle of making decorative changes, then make the dark room a cosy room.

Give that dark room an old fashioned vibe by choosing chunky and heavy looking furniture, rich in colour, such as dark reds, browns and purples.

Wooden window shutters and wooden window blinds

Meanwhile, to give that room an extra little touch of light, add some candles here and there.

If you would like window shutters or blinds installed in your home to improve the lighting in your household, give Lifestyle Shutters a call today on 08452 576 313 (CLICK TO CALL).