Choosing Window Treatments to Maximize Sunlight

Many types of window treatments can block most of the sunlight from entering the room. If you are trying to maximize the light, replace heavy curtains and draperies with lightweight curtains, sheers, or a combination of curtain toppers and blinds or shades. Using shades or blinds in combination with window toppers or light sheer curtains can provide the best of both worlds, letting in full sunlight when you want it, while allowing you to close the shade or blinds when the light is too intense, or when you want some privacy in the room.

Color is also important when choosing window treatments that maximize light. Instead of choosing room darkening blinds in a solid color, use light filtering blinds in white or an eggshell color. Bamboo shades are also a good choice as a window treatment when you are trying to maximize the level of light. These beautiful shades can be rolled up to let the light shine in, or lowered to create a soft filtered light effect, while still providing shade and privacy.

Use Mirrors to Reflect Light

Adding mirrors to a room can also help to maximize the level of light because they are reflective. When positioning a mirror in a room, place it where it can catch the eye, creating a pleasing and reflective focal point, but avoid placing it where it will catch direct sunlight, such as that from an open window or door, to avoid uncomfortably bright reflections in the room. You can also add interest, space and reflective light to a room by incorporating some mirrored wall tiles or other glass surfaces that reflect the available light.

Room Brightening Door Styles

If your living room is dark, consider upgrading your front entryway door with a model that includes side lights or one that has a large glass window. These styles of doors let in much more sunlight, which can help brighten up your foyer and living room. During warmer weather, using a screen door will allow you to leave the solid door open more often, which will not only let in sunlight but also a pleasant breeze and fresh air.

Skylights for Maximum Illumination

The ultimate feature for letting more sunlight into a room is a skylight. Adding one to a room takes more effort and expense than most of the other suggestions, but those who add a skylight to their home often wonder how they ever did without one. Choose a skylight with manual or motorized shades or blinds, so that you can close them if the sun becomes too intense during certain times of the day.

This article was written by Alyssa Davis of Metal-Wall-Art.com who specializes in creating stylish interiors with metal wall art and black metal wall sculptures.