Whether you’re looking to give your plants some extra love or wanting to rely on overhead lights less, adding natural light to your Des Moines home is essential. From adding new windows to swapping out your existing curtains, there are a variety of ways to brighten up your space without breaking the bank. Find out how to add natural light to any room so you can enjoy that bright light all year round.

1. Use Light Colors to Reflect the Sun

Ditch the dark wallpaper or paint for something more airy. Off-white shades are great at making your space feel brighter and more inviting. Want to embrace color in your decor? Warm pastels like light yellow, cream and light pink are perfect for welcoming in light.

2. Be Mindful of Your Flooring

Like walls, the color of your flooring can enhance the natural light in your space. Stick to wood, laminate or stone floors that work as reflectors. If you prefer carpet, choose a light color option to better reflect natural light instead of absorbing it. 

3. Invest in New Windows

Another way to increase natural light in your rooms is to invest in modern replacement windows. Consider a larger window option with floor-to-ceiling glass, like a picture window, or an energy-efficient double-hung window with a Low-E coating to let in more light without heating up your home in the summer. Low-E allows light in but bounces heat back out, meaning you get all the benefits and none of the extra work for your HVAC system! 

4. Consider Adding Reflective Surfaces

Reflective surfaces, like mirrors and metallic accessories, make the most of the sun’s entry into your home by spreading it across the room. When placed across from a window, these can amp up your existing natural light. For smaller homes where adding in or replacing windows with larger ones aren’t an option, this is a smart way to bring the sunshine a little closer. 

5. Clear Landscape Blocking the Windows

Take inventory of landscaping surrounding your home’s windows to see if there are any potential greenery blockers. An overgrown hedge can play havoc with your indoor lighting and is an easy fix! By simply trimming bushes and trees blocking your view, you can allow more sunlight into your rooms.

6. Replace Your Current Blinds and Curtains

Bulky curtains and blinds cover up any chance of sunbeams peeking through. Instead, select window treatments like Roman shades or airy sheer curtains that you can easily move aside or roll up when looking to catch some vitamin D.

7. Add Glossy Surfaces

Glossy surfaces, like a tiled kitchen backsplash, are another sure way to enhance your room’s lighting. Short on space? A gloss finish on your wall can also add the extra zing your home needs to feel a little more bright and open.

8. Consider a Patio Door

Like windows, patio doors can be a great gateway for more natural light. Sliding doors are like the movie theater screen of a traditional window, while hinged patio doors offer a little more style with an unobstructed view of the outdoors.

Brighten Up Your Space

Window World of Des Moines has years of experience helping homeowners make their spaces feel inviting. Our experts are here to help you take advantage of your home’s natural lighting! Contact your local team member today to get started.