Let Some Light In

(Photo by L. Burgio)

Light is a major way to enhance a rooms character and natural light is one of your best options. Of course, not all rooms in your home may have as much natural light as this room does, but you can see here how it affects the mood of this room. These windows are not concealed with coverings, but left naked to let as much of the outdoors in as possible.

It is a common mind set when you see a window, to cover it. Drapes, curtains, blinds, and shutters are the most popular options. It's understandable that privacy may be the reason to use such coverings, but in rooms with small windows or a small number of windows, don't be so quick to hide them. Not every window has to have a covering. Large windows, like these in the photos, are just framed with white painted wood molding and the windows speak for themselves. It gives the room a light and airy feeling, a calming feeling. Windows are like picture frames, and outside may be a beautifully painted landscape. Nature is a great place to pull inspiration from and what you're looking for might just be outside one of your windows.

(Photo by L. Burgio)

In a room with little natural light, artificial lighting can also persuade the mood of the room. Although your room may have a ceiling light, don't let it be your only source. Lamps, candles, and light fixtures come in all styles and forms and I am sure you will find plenty of variety to choose from. You cannot see it very well in this photo, but this room also has other forms of light including: a standing floor lamp, a table lamp, spot lights, a ceiling light, candles, and a fireplace. All of these forms create ambiance and they are all needed to impact a certain mood and comfy glow. A dark room will go unnoticed and there is nothing more inviting than light, well, unless it's a bed.

Lighting should be fun and think of the unexpected. For an example, imagine your dining room with a candelabra rather than an ordinary light fixture. Candle light dinners every night would sure give a certain beauty to your room, as well as your food... don't you think? How much more romantic can it get?