Bathrooms are often the smallest and darkest rooms in our homes. But nobody said they had to be gloomy and dingy. By maximising natural light in your bathroom, you can create a brighter, more inviting spaces that feels fresh, clean, and relaxing. Natural light not only has the potential to make your bathroom look and feel better, but it can also improve your mood and even boost your energy levels.
In this blog post, we'll explore how to add more natural light to a room, with some tips and tricks for maximising natural light in your bathroom. Whether you're renovating, building anew or just looking to brighten up your space, these ideas will help you make the most of your natural light. We'll start off talking about on how to add more natural light to a room such as your bathroom, and then discuss how to best utilise it once its in there.
1. Get more light into your bathroom
Install skylights
Installing a skylight in your bathroom can be a great way to improve the overall look and functionality of the space. By allowing natural light to enter your bathroom from above, you can create a bright and airy environment that feels more spacious and inviting. This can be especially important in bathrooms located on the top floor of your home, where natural light may be limited.
In addition to improving the aesthetics of your bathroom, skylights can also provide practical benefits. They can help to improve ventilation in the space, which can be important in reducing moisture buildup and preventing issues such as mold and mildew growth. Skylights can also help to reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day, which can help to lower your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint.
Trim any obstructing outdoor vegetation
If you have overgrown vegetation near your bathroom windows or skylights, it may be obstructing the natural light that enters the space. To maximize the amount of light that filters through, it's important to trim any trees or bushes that are blocking the way. This will allow more natural light to enter your bathroom, creating a brighter and more inviting atmosphere.
Clean your windows regularly
Dirty or smudged windows can prevent natural light from entering your bathroom, which can lead to a dim and uninviting space. To ensure your bathroom is well-lit, it's important to clean your windows regularly. A simple solution of water and vinegar can be used for effective cleaning, or you can opt for a commercial window cleaner.
2. Make the best use of the light you can get
Use sheer window dressings
Sheer curtains, shades, or blinds are an excellent way on how to add more natural light to a room, as it lets in more natural light while still maintaining privacy in your bathroom. These types of window coverings are made from lightweight and translucent materials that allow sunlight to filter through, illuminating the space and creating a soft, warm glow.
In addition to their practical benefits, sheer window treatments also have aesthetic advantages. They can lend your bathroom a fresh, breezy ambiance, making it feel larger and more spacious. The delicate and soft texture of sheer fabrics can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your decor, and they work well with a variety of different design styles. Whether your bathroom is modern, traditional, or somewhere in between, sheer window treatments can complement and enhance your space's overall aesthetic.
Choose light colours and light finishes
One of the easiest ways to enhance the natural light in your bathroom is to choose light-coloured finishes. Lighter colours have reflective properties that bounce light around the room, giving the impression of more light and space. Opting for light finishes can help to brighten up even the smallest of bathrooms and make them feel more open and inviting. Dark or heavy finishes that can absorb light and make your bathroom feel smaller and more closed in.
3. Use light complementing features
Use mirrors strategically
Mirrors are a highly effective way to brighten up and enhance the ambiance of your bathroom. Their ability to reflect natural light can transform even the smallest and darkest of spaces, making them appear brighter and more open. A practical approach to using mirrors is to hang a large one opposite a window to reflect light back into the room.
In addition to this, smaller mirrors can be strategically placed in different angles and positions to create a play of light that adds depth and interest to the room. By reflecting key features or design elements of the bathroom, mirrors can help to create a sense of continuity and cohesiveness in the space.
Overall, mirrors are a versatile and effective tool for creating a brighter, more spacious, and visually pleasing bathroom. With the right placement and use, they can significantly enhance the atmosphere and functionality of your bathroom. You can check out our great selection of stylish bathroom mirrors here.
Use Chrome Taps or Chrome Towel Rails
Chrome in your bathroom can enhance the natural light in the room, as chrome is a highly reflective material that can bounce light around and make the space appear brighter and more spacious. This effect is particularly noticeable in smaller bathrooms or those without windows. Dark surfaces can absorb natural light, making the room feel dim and cramped, but chrome reflects light, creating a brighter and more open feel.
However, it's important to note that not all chrome finishes are the same. Look for high-quality chrome with a polished finish, as these will be the most reflective and have the greatest impact on your bathroom's natural light. Keep your chrome surfaces clean and free of water spots or soap residue to maintain their reflective surface and maximise the amount of light they reflect. You can check out our high quality chrome taps or chrome towel rails here.
Use White Radiators
Radiators are an essential part of any bathroom heating system, but they can also serve as a functional design element. White radiators, in particular, can help to improve the overall brightness of your bathroom by reflecting natural light throughout the space.
In addition to improving the overall brightness of your bathroom, white radiators can also help to create a clean and sleek look. White is a neutral colour that can blend seamlessly with any bathroom design, whether it's modern or traditional. Choosing white radiators can also be an excellent choice if you're looking to create a minimalist look in your bathroom. You can check out our white radiators here.