February 15, 2022
Natural sunlight plays an important role in how we decorate our homes and perceive them. The presence of light can make a space feel more comfortable and inviting. In the UK basements often tend to be gloomy and dim due to the absence of windows and adequate lighting.
When it comes to renovating your basement there are some things to keep in mind. Since the space is below ground level, proper ventilation and adherence to building codes are crucial. Additionally, you want your basement to be a living area. It's essential to consider more than just the construction aspect. Making sure there's ample natural light is key in preventing that cave feeling. Luckily with some design choices, you can bring in sunlight and transform your basement into an inviting space. Here are some features to consider when remodeling your basement;
Solar Tube
Consider using a solar tube that directly brings in natural light to your basement. Typically installed on the wall solar tubes contain mirrors that help guide the light and brighten up areas, in your basement.
Install Light Wells
Another option is to install wells. These are openings that allow natural light to enter your basement. Light wells can come in sizes ranging from sized windows to smaller ones. It's best to position them on the walls that receive sunlight throughout the day. This way they can effectively flood your basement with daylight.
Hang Up Some Mirrors
Take inspiration from solar tubes and hang mirrors in your basement. This will help reflect the light, from windows and solar tubes throughout the space. When hanging the mirrors consider the angles strategically. Imagine a line connecting the source to the mirror. See how it will bounce off and If you're having trouble visualizing where to place them shine a flashlight at the mirror to get a sense of how light will reflect.
Manage the lighting
With windows, solar tubes, an open floor plan, and mirrors all working together to bring light into your basement there may be times when you want to control or reduce brightness. Like when watching a movie downstairs. Retractable screens can be useful, in situations. Install them on your windows so that you can adjust and control the amount of light entering your basement. Deploy these screens when you want to enjoy a film or play video games to minimize glare caused by sunlight.
Open The Floor Plan
First start by considering the layout of your basement. It's important to ensure that there is a flow of light, throughout the space. We suggest avoiding overusing walls and taking into account the placement of windows when deciding where to position them. For instance, if there is a window on one wall make sure not to obstruct its path with any walls. You can place walls around the window and avoid positioning them perpendicular as it hinders the movement of light across different areas of the basement. The goal is for light to move seamlessly from one side of the basement to the other.
Similarly, when arranging furniture in your basement keep in mind that it shouldn't block or impede the flow of light and avoid placing bookshelves or large pieces in front of windows; instead position them parallel, to the windows.
Modify Existing Windows
Sometimes we don't fully realize the potential of our basement windows when it comes to letting in light. There are steps we can take to improve this situation like giving the glass a cleaning and using curtain rods that allow the curtains to be fully open.
However, some improvements might require assistance. For example, replacing glass with glass upgrading from small windows to larger ones, and removing security bars or grates that obstruct natural light.
Typically basement windows have hopper-style frames that tilt inward or outward for ventilation purposes. However, these frames tend to be quite thick and made of wood. It may be worth considering replacing them with sliding windows featuring vinyl or aluminum frames instead.
Use of Light Coloured Paint
The greater the glossiness the more resistant the paint becomes, offering added protection against moisture intrusion. Additionally, high gloss paint is easier to clean resulting in walls that stay bright and fresh.
To maximize brightness in a basement space opt for colors such as whites, off-whites, and pastels. This principle applies not only to the walls but to any furniture that you choose to paint and incorporate into the area.
Remove Clutter
One of the ways to make a basement room brighter is by removing any objects that obstruct the flow of light. Try to arrange your furniture against the walls rather than in the middle of the room and also consider finding places to hang your coats, towels, and laundry.
If you happen to use your basement for storage purposes the same advice applies. Try placing items on a wall or in an area that is rarely used. Keeping surfaces free, from clutter will help create a sense of spaciousness since spaciousness and light are interconnected.
Increasing Ceiling Heights
In some cases low ceilings can make a space feel even darker in basements. While the cost of raising the ceiling height can be high there are ways to achieve an effect without breaking the bank. For instance, choosing colors for the walls or using wallpaper can create the illusion of taller ceilings.
Glass Doors
Another method to maximize light in your basement is to incorporate glass elements indoors. This could entail installing glass partitions opting for glass doors or even using glass balustrades. The inherent reflective properties of glass not only enhance the existing light but also lend a more spacious and contemporary feel, to your basement.