If you’re in need of dark room ideas, there are plenty of options for lighting up a space. Whether a space has obstructed windows or no windows at all, there are design secrets you can use to bring light inside. Here are some tips to brighten a dark room:
Reflect light with mirrors
Decorating with mirrors is a tried-and-true strategy for increasing the amount of natural light in a space. Using a mirror is especially helpful for rooms with awkwardly placed windows or very limited light sources.
By reflecting light around the room with mirrors, you can make the entire space seem brighter. Try experimenting with different shapes and sizes of mirrors, or consider creating a mirrored gallery wall.
Create layered lighting
Layered lighting is a key concept in interior design and one that can significantly help dark rooms. With the perfect balance of ambient lighting, task lighting and accent lighting, even the darkest rooms can brighten up considerably.
For ambient lighting, try recessed lights or a large floor lamp for soft, diffused illumination. Add task lighting with table lamps to key areas like desks, side tables and vanities.
If you have a specific feature you want to highlight, consider using a spotlight to make it a focal point while also brightening up the room.
Opt for light-colored furniture & walls
Color choice can have a massive impact and make a dark room brighter. If you’re struggling to brighten a room with dark flooring or walls, consider a quick renovation.
White paint on the walls will reflect light much more efficiently than darker shades, and a light area rug can brighten the floor. Try to limit the amount of dark furnishings and accessories in the room to make the most of the available light.
About the Author
Kyung Kim
Hi, I'm Kyung Kim. I immigrated from South Korea to the United States in 1968 when I was 7 years old. I have seen my mom struggle with the English language and work hard to raise her four kids by herself. Still to this day, I don't know how she pulled it off, but she bought her first home in 1979 for $70,000 and because of that decision, she was able to live without worrying about her financial future. I want that for everyone, to feel the pride of home ownership and to build their financial wealth using real estate as part of their financial portfolio. I feel so blessed to play a small role in helping others reach this goal.
I live in Beaverton with my husband, Richard. My mom, who lived with us for several years, passed away in our home in February 2022. Her first home purchase in 1979 made it possible for her to live to the very end, without worrying about her finances. As of August 2022 with a little downpayment assistance, our four children own their own homes. Being in real estate, I quickly realized that if they didn't buy now, they may be priced out of the market in the future. Whether that would have been the case, we will never know, but what we do know is that they are all realizing some good, healthy appreciation in their home values.
As passionate as I am about people owning their homes, I'm also passionate about giving back to our community. I support Compassion First, a non-profit organization that provides aftercare for sex trafficked girls in Indonesia. My husband and I also feel called to financially support social injustice organizations.
I'd love to assist you. Whether you're in the research phase at the beginning of your real estate search or you know exactly what you're looking for, you'll benefit from having a real estate professional by your side. I'd be honored to put my real estate experience to work for you.
