Fortunately, tips for brightening a dark room are numerous and they don’t have to include knocking out walls and adding/replacing windows. If major renovations just aren’t in your budget or plans – never fear – here are some great tips!
PAINT THE CEILING WHITE
Your ceiling may already be white, but a number of factors can cause it to darken over time. These include: air coming out of the vents, smoke from cooking, cigarettes or fireplace smoke, water stains, dust accumulation or cobwebs.
Repainting the ceiling, including and beams, with a bright, white paint will lighten up the room immediately. A satin ceiling paint will reflect more light than a flat paint and it is easier to clean. However, also consider that a flat paint covers imperfections in the ceiling. If your ceiling is textured a flat paint is recommended.
ADD A MIRROR
Because mirrors reflect light, adding a strategically placed mirror can brighten up the room. Try several locations to see which one works best in reflecting light, whether it is natural or from light sources in the room. Opt for a mirror (or set of mirrors) with a light colored, thin frame for maximum benefit.
Mirrors are a great way to reflect the light you have.
LIGHTEN UP FLOORING
If you have dark flooring or carpeting that you can’t refinish or replace you still have options! Choose a light-colored area rug to add brightness and interest. Along the same lines, be minimal with your furnishings to avoid an overcrowded look and use CFL’s or LED bulbs in your lamps. This will give you higher light output while reducing energy consumption.
WINDOW TREATMENTS brighten up a dark room
Make sure your window treatments inspire a light, airy feeling. You can choose blinds or window shades and skip adding heavy materials around the windows. They will provide privacy without the heavy profile. If you prefer the look of draperies/curtains consider gauzy, light fabrics for a breezy look.
SKYLIGHTS Brighten up a dark room
This could be a major renovation, but adding a skylight will let in natural light to brighten up your room. An unexpected benefit is that it also adds solar heat during cooler seasons. Some skylights are actual skylight windows that let in fresh air and can cut down on air conditioning use. Finally, adding a skylight can add value to your home, increasing equity and resale value.
Brighten up a room with a skylight.
COLOR FOR YOUR WALLS
The options for brightening a dark room are a lot more numerous than you might think! Rich colors can add a feel of luxury and sophistication, even if the room is small. If you like the idea of a darker color but fear that it may be too dark, experiment with an accent wall or create separation with beadboard, wainscoting or a chair rail and paint only part of the wall with a darker color.
Beadboard or wainscoting add interest.
Lighter colors reflect the small amount of natural light that you may be getting. They may not be as interesting as a darker hue, but they add a light, airy look to a room that needs brightening. You can always buy sample jars of paint to see what appeals to your particular tastes. A little research will also give you ideas for colors that designers recommend.
Call Britt now for a free estimate! Brighten up your rooms with paint colors you’ll love! 803-603-6486 or e-mail us at ellisb@colatownpainting.com
Please leave your comments or questions below. Let us know there is something you would like to see in our blog posts. We welcome your input.
Recent Comments