Does your living room or study lack windows or appear darker than you’d like? We’ve all had homes where there’s that room where, no matter what you do, feels dark and gloomy. Thankfully there are a few ways to brighten a room and make it appear larger!
Accent Your Windows
If your windows currently have dark color or patterned curtains, consider changing them to something brighter and a lighter fabric. By utilizing a lighter pattern or color, it’ll instantly brighten a room since the window can allow more light inside. Draw the eye up towards the ceiling by installing the curtain rod 6-8” above the window to heighten the room.
Use Lighter Furniture
We all know that room – you put everything that doesn’t match in it and it suddenly becomes a hodgepodge of unmatched furniture and decor. First, take stock of items that are too dark for the room and consider selling, donating, or repainting the pieces. It’s incredible what a coat of paint can do to bring new life to a piece of furniture! After evaluating what you currently have, only keep items that create a cohesive style and enlarge the room.
Use Accessories Sparingly
This goes hand in hand with using lighter furniture. If your room is sparsely decorated and on the smaller size, don’t take this as an excuse to over-decorate with accessories! Utilize accessories wisely by adding small touches like a rug, books, and plants.
Consider Painting
One way to create an immediate change in a room is by painting it. If your room currently has a darker color scheme, paint it a lighter shade of cream or grey to brighten the room. Stay away from darker shades like browns, reds, or oranges.
Light it Up
We can’t forget about lighting in a dark room! Changing your light fixtures can instantly brighten a room. Select light bulbs that are LED and emit a brighter white light and stay away from those that have a more yellow glow to them.
These are just a few ways to instantly brighten a room and make it appear larger! All of these projects can easily transform a room and be accomplished over a weekend.
