Lighten up

According to interior designer Abigail Ahern, every room in the home needs nine sources of light. While nine may be a bit excessive, there are valuable lessons to be learnt from the interior design world.

Many of us are underselling our home’s appeal due to inadequate lighting and now the nights are drawing in (the sun will set by 16:35 at the end of October), a glowing home is essential if you’re inviting potential buyers in.

Grey clouds and a lack of natural light can make even the brightest homes feel gloomy. Add in a north-facing orientation and you’ll have to work even harder to banish the shadowy blues. So let’s shine a light on lightening up!

Dodge the darkness

It isn’t hard to establish where in your home might need an illumination boost. Start by turning on your main overhead light. You’ll probably find its glow doesn’t reach the far corners of the room.

If there are shadowy spots, you can use a lamp to lift the light level. Room to add a small table? Do so and add a statement table lamp on top. If you’re tight for space, a floor standing lamp is a good alternative, especially if it’s adjustable or it has an ‘uplighter’ style of shade.

Introduce layers of light

Having a floor standing lamp, a table lamp and an overhead light provides three light sources and puts you well on the way to achieving light ‘layers’. Layers refer to light sources at different heights and intensities. 

For example, a table lamp with a reeded glass shade will cast a pretty pattern and won’t be too harsh, whereas an angled floor lamp with a high wattage bulb will give clear, directional light. 

Likewise, a central chandelier fitted with milky, candle-shape light bulbs will give off a soft, diffused glow -  a look that you could balance with wall-mounted picture lights over your favourite photos and artwork.

Cut the cord

When it comes to the height of lights, the invention of battery-operated and rechargeable options means lamps are super portable. Without cords and cables, you can place lamps lower or higher than table height without worry. Concentrate on the darkest areas, including book shelves and alcoves, or place a lamp by a plant to highlight its structure and form.

Of course, we can’t talk about illumination without mentioning the most original light source of all – candles. They add a layer of mesmerising light that makes people feel instantly at home – the exact feeling you want potential purchasers to experience. Lanterns and hurricane vases can make a style statement on their own but add a lit pillar candle and you will up the illumination anti. Consider opting for one of the very realistic battery-operated candles on sale to remove any safety worries.

Low level light

Other layered light can come from fairy lights and LEDs but use these with restraint. Too many can feel gimmicky, especially if you’re tempted to choose coloured options. Install sparingly in the right place – perhaps in a children’s bedroom – and stick to warm white. 

Overhead, table lamp, floor standing lamp, picture light, rechargeable lamp or a bookshelf, wall sconces and a candle-lit lantern? That’s seven sources guaranteed to lift the light levels on even the greyest of autumn days. How close will you get to nine sources of light?

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