Natural light is more than a luxury – it’s key to our physical and mental well-being. Unfortunately, in today’s fast-paced world, getting enough natural lighting can be tricky. Many of us now work from home or have less need to go out compared to the past, so we’re missing out on the natural light exposure we really need.
The good news? You can turn this around by inviting more natural light into your home, and there’s a simple way to do so – plan the design of your single-story extension with light exposure in mind!
Thanks to the amount of flexibility extensions offer, they allow you to boost the natural light inside in various ways. From placing windows strategically to choosing the right colours, here are 5 fantastic strategies for doing just that!
While it might sound obvious, it’s surprisingly easy to forget about the sun’s placement when you’re designing the layout of your extension. To make the most of the sunlight streaming through your windows and doors, take a moment to carefully consider where you’ll put them – you can get creative by placing large windows, sliding glass doors, or even skylights strategically to capture light from different angles as the day unfolds. And if you position your windows at eye level or higher, you’ll prevent things like furniture from accidentally blocking the light.
Of course, there’s no point in perfecting your window and door placement if the sun is blocked by trees and neighbouring houses! When choosing a spot to place your extension, keep in mind the sun’s movement and how shadows play across your home and garden – this will help you avoid placing it somewhere too shaded.
If you’re having trouble finding the right space, think about moving other garden structures around or even considering a complete garden makeover. While it might not be the most budget-friendly option, it’s a wonderful way to give both the inside and outside of your home a stunning new look.
Bringing in more light won’t have much impact if something is blocking it from reaching all corners of your room. An open floor plan will allow light to flow uninterrupted through your extension and into the rest of your home, so try to avoid putting up unnecessary walls or partitions that could stop light from reaching certain spots. If you are looking to remove external barriers that block light into your single storey extension, you may need to check your plans comply with building regulations.
Mirrors have long been used to make rooms seem bigger and brighter, so consider adding reflective surfaces to the interior of your extension. Think about glossy finishes and mirrored accents that can play with light, as these will make your space feel more open and airy. Just be mindful of overdoing it, as excessive reflection can create glare – you don’t want to be stuck wearing sunglasses inside!
To make your extension even brighter, consider going for light-coloured finishes on your walls, ceilings, flooring, and furnishings. Light tones reflect light more effectively than darker colours, helping to create a less shadowy atmosphere. They also don’t soak up as much heat as darker shades do, which means your extension will stay comfortably cool even when the sun is blazing outside – it’s why buildings in hotter countries are often painted white. Even better? Light colours tend to hold up better against UV rays, so they’ll stay looking fresh and vibrant for much longer!
Single Storey Extensions are your go-to experts for crafting one-of-a-kind extensions. With years of experience and access to the highest quality components, we’re proud of the premium work we deliver.
Our extensions come complete with all the materials you need and beginner-friendly instructions. This means big savings on labour and architect fees, while you get to enjoy total creative control over the look and pace of your project.
During the design stage, we’ll work closely with you to create a bright and inviting space, adjusting everything from windows and doors to cladding colours. This will allow you to maximise the natural light in your home. If you’d only like more light at certain times, you can even choose to have manual or electronic blinds integrated into your windows. That way, you’re in charge of setting the mood and keeping your space comfortable 24/7.
Ready to get started? Book a consultation online or call us on 0331 630 2550, and take the first step towards a brighter, airier home today!
