The desire for more natural light is often a primary motivation for home renovation.. Natural light makes a space feel larger and more inviting. Sunlight is a proven mood booster and lessens reliance on artificial light during daylight hours.
There are a few ways to lighten your space. If you plan to remove interior walls, consider the natural lighting in the new space. Should you add a window to a windowless wall? Is a skylight or solar tube an option in your space? If you’re not removing a wall and have an area that is poorly lit, consider widening the opening so sufficient natural light can reach the darker area. If you’re also working with an interior designer, ask about window treatments, paint colors and wall decorations that create the illusion of a brighter space.
Adding or Replacing Windows
Many homebuilders neglected to put windows on the sides of houses for many years due to privacy concerns. A well-positioned window can let in light and preserve your privacy. A new window in the right place can change the entire feel of a room post-renovation.
Another consideration is the type of window currently in your home. Many older homes have wood windows with thick frames and a heavy colonial grid pattern in the glass. The grid pattern actually obstructs the view and the light. Many replacement windows have narrower frames and more subtle grid patterns from which to choose, so your view remains unobstructed and more light comes in.
Skylights and Solar Tubes
Skylights are a great option for areas where a window isn’t feasible but you still want some natural light. Skylight manufacturers offer fixed skylights for light only, and skylights that can be operated with a remote. If you want to control when light comes in, look for a skylight with built-in blinds. Solar tubes are similar in that they let in light, but because they transfer the light indirectly, there is greater privacy.
A new window strategically placed can drastically change the look and feel of your space. Switching out a smaller window for a bay window or larger one will also make your room feel larger and more inviting. As you begin your residential remodeling project, be sure to talk to your design build company about ways to add natural light. If you haven’t found a remodeling company yet, call G.M. Roth Design Remodeling for your free consultation at (603) 880-3761.
