Using natural light to improve the ambience of your home
Real Estate In Motion | Natural lighting can actually create the impression of more space in your home. Used correctly in the architectural design of ...
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Using natural light to improve the ambience of your home

Natural lighting can actually create the impression of more space in your home. Used correctly in the architectural design of your build or renovation, natural light helps in the perception of the size of a room and enhances the palate of colours you have chosen for your home or office. It is the same perception of light which artists use to create a sense of space in their work and to attain perspective.

Natural light gives a sense of openness and welcome, and promotes an immediate atmosphere of comfort. We are sure you agree; nothing is more pleasant than a well decorated room bathed in natural light as it can produce warmth and show off the pure colour of your furnishings and décor.

Sunlight and natural light using solar tube technology are both proven scientifically to enhance good health. Natural sunlight in particular raises personal productivity and promotes a better night’s sleep. People living and working in natural light, as opposed to those operating under purely artificial fluorescent light, consistently felt a heightened alertness during the day and slept more soundly, waking refreshed. It is simply a function of our human body clock.

If you are building your home from the ground up, or especially if you are renovating an existing property, bringing natural light into the space has to be a major aspect of the overall design. Not only is the ambience of your home critical, but your health must also come into consideration.


First steps to a more light filled existence


Consider the use of windows, skylights, roof windows and other natural lighting solutions; each has its place in the repertoire of expert lighting designers. Choosing the right positioning of light openings and the overall lighting plan will always be dependent on the shape of the room or the architectural limitations of the building site, but ask as many questions as you can at the lighting design stage.

In Australia, north facing homes facing the sun, whether at the back or the front, allow far more natural light to envelope the home or workplace. It is the placement of sources that enable an abundance of light to stream in. A skylight solution or large windows such as bay windows will not raise the temperature in your room, because with well-considered and expertly installed glazing, there will be no additional heat.

With the latest technology, natural light can also be delivered using solar tubes. Often a full skylight or large window spaces are inappropriate and solar tubes funnelling light from the roof to a diffuser in the ceiling will bring natural light to almost any space.


Create the lighting plan while you design your home


Lighting design is an art. Although the expertise of qualified tradespeople will be required to realise your designer’s vision, the task of a lighting designer is to balance artistic sensibilities against the practical requirements of your home. Working in tandem with your interior designer and architect, you’ll need a proven lighting design professional to create a unique and functional lighting plan to bring your home to life.

There will be many considerations, from the aspect of your home toward the sun, the size and layout of your rooms, the height of your ceilings and the colour scheme. Leave nothing to chance, plan everything and stick as close to the plan as you can. Having a definitive vision and design is a practical step in briefing tradespeople, who will each bring their expertise and their own experienced advice to your project.