Let the light in: How to avoid decor mistakes that make your home darker

While some homes may naturally receive less daylight, it's often exacerbated by interior choices that absorb light rather than enhance it. With this in mind, MyBuilder.com, the reliable way to hire tradespeople, explained that interior design decisions are an important part of helping spaces feel brighter, bigger, and more inviting - without making structural changes. 

Some of these common mistakes are choosing dark or cool-toned paint colours that absorb light rather than reflect it, or filling rooms with heavy, bulky and dark furniture that blocks natural light flow. These design choices are making your home feel darker, instead, you can  maximise the light, using mirrors and layered lighting to help improve the brightness.

Andy Simms, an expert from MyBuilder.com, said homeowners are often surprised at how much of a difference small adjustments can make.

“The right lighting can completely change the entire character of a home, shaping how spaces look, feel, and function throughout the day. Improving lighting is a simple but effective way to enhance everyday life.

“It can be challenging for those who are living in houses that don’t have great natural light. You might have to get a bit creative with how you make improvements, but there are still plenty of practical and simple improvements such as intentional colour choices, layout and artificial lighting.

“Many of these changes can be straightforward, although it’s always worth getting in a tradesperson for assistance if you’re not sure.”

Here are nine tips from MyBuilder.com to increase light in your home:

Don't just paint it white 

Painting walls a much lighter colour can instantly make a room feel and look brighter, but not all whites are equal. In north-facing rooms, which tend to receive cooler, bluer light, a stark or blue-toned white can make the space feel colder and flatter. Instead, opt for a warmer white or soft cream tones to counterbalance the chill. For south-facing rooms, that get a warmer natural light, so you can afford to use crispier whites or light neutrals without the space feeling gloomy.

Clever mirror placement matters 

Using mirrors to reflect light is one of the simplest ways to brighten a room, but placement is everything. A mirror that faces a dark corner, cluttered surface, or bulky furniture will simply double the gloom. Instead, position mirrors, preferably large ones, opposite or adjacent to windows so they will bounce light back into the space. Also consider incorporating reflective surfaces, such as glass tables and glossy tiles, which will help light travel further.

Swap out heavy drapes 

Although heavy curtains are perfect for winter, it's best to change out the heavy drapes that block the light in the summer for sheer curtains or blinds that let the light in, while still maintaining privacy.

Don't rely on one bulb 

Choosing the right colour bulb is an effective way to initiate natural light. If you're unable to let the natural light in, upgrade your bulbs to LED bulbs that replicate sunlight to make the space feel brighter. You could also add layering of light, such as LED strips under the kitchen shelves or cabinets.

Clear the path for light 

Decluttering is a great way to allow light to flow freely throughout your home without being obstructed by a messy living space. Decluttering could be a case of throwing things you don't need away, or maybe putting up shelves to keep things out of the way, to enable light to continuously flow through the room.

Choose furniture that lets light through

Lighter coloured furniture can really help to brighten up a room. A coffee table with a glass top and thin legs allows more light to pass through it and reflect, whereas a chunky, dark brown coffee table doesn't allow light to reflect. Consider sofas with thinner armrests, or beds without footboards, which help rooms feel more open and less dark. Opt for cabinets with glass doors to reflect light; all these factors not only help light but also make the room feel brighter and more open.

Let the light in, properly 

Make sure your windows are kept clean so they let in the maximum amount of light.  Regularly cleaning inside and outside of your windows ensures light to pass through without being obstructed by dust, grime and streaks.

Light in from above 

If you're looking to make a big change, skylights or sun tunnels are a good option that doesn't require changing the furniture or painting. It's a great source of natural light for particularly dark areas in the house, such as hallways, bathrooms or staircases.

Glass blocks

Again, if you're thinking about renovating, maybe consider glass block walls, which are ideal if you're looking to add natural light. MyBuilder.com recommends them for areas like bathrooms, entryways and basements where light and discretion are important. There are multiple types of glass blocks, from coloured ones to pattern blocks and frosted glass blocks.