How to Remodel a Home to Increase Natural Light

As a homeowner, one of the most rewarding home improvements I've ever made was remodeling my house to maximize natural light. There’s just something about having a space filled with sunlight that transforms the atmosphere, making it feel more open, airy, and inviting. After experiencing the positive impact firsthand, I can say that increasing natural light in your home isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about creating a more pleasant, healthy, and energy-efficient living environment. In this article, I’ll share my journey, tips, and strategies for remodeling a home to bring in more natural light.

1. Start with the Windows

The most effective way to bring in more light is by working with your windows. I realized that my old windows, with their small panes and outdated frames, weren’t doing my home any favors when it came to natural lighting. I decided to start by upgrading to larger windows. If you’re able to, consider installing bigger windows in rooms that could benefit from more sunlight. I replaced a few of the smaller windows in my living room with floor-to-ceiling glass windows. The transformation was incredible – the room felt instantly brighter and more spacious. Consider the orientation of your windows, too. South-facing windows (if you're in the northern hemisphere) receive the most sunlight throughout the day. Try to incorporate larger windows on the south side of your home to let in maximum sunlight. This not only brightens up the room but also helps reduce your energy bills by naturally warming up your home in the colder months.

2. Add Skylights or Roof Windows

One of the best decisions I made during my remodel was installing skylights in my kitchen and bathroom. These added a huge amount of natural light to areas that were previously darker. Skylights can be an excellent way to open up a room and bring in sunlight without sacrificing wall space. In fact, I found that having a skylight in the kitchen helped the room feel less cramped and more cheerful. If your roof allows for it, installing skylights or roof windows can provide an abundance of light, especially in spaces where wall space for windows is limited. Be sure to consult with a professional to choose the right size and placement of skylights, as poorly positioned ones can cause overheating or glare. However, when done correctly, skylights can enhance the beauty of your home while improving energy efficiency.

3. Open Up Interior Spaces

One of the most noticeable changes I made during my remodeling project was opening up the interior spaces. If you have rooms that are closed off or separated by walls, consider removing or replacing those walls with partial partitions or open doorways. By opening up the flow of space between rooms, natural light can travel deeper into the home. In my home, I knocked down a few unnecessary interior walls between the kitchen and dining room, which allowed the natural light from the new windows in the kitchen to spill into the dining area. This simple change made the entire downstairs feel larger and brighter.

4. Use Light-Colored Paint and Reflective Surfaces

When remodeling your home to increase natural light, it’s important to consider how light reflects in your space. Dark-colored walls and furniture can absorb light, leaving a room feeling dim and closed off. To maximize the effect of the sunlight you’re letting in, I recommend painting your walls in light, neutral tones such as white, pale gray, or soft beige. I used light gray for most of my walls and saw an immediate difference in the amount of natural light that bounced around the room. Light-colored walls reflect sunlight and help it travel further into the room. Additionally, using reflective surfaces like mirrors and glossy finishes on furniture and decor can also help disperse light and make the room feel brighter.

5. Use Transom and Clerestory Windows

For rooms that are still lacking in light, another option I found to be effective was adding transom or clerestory windows. These windows are placed high on the wall, typically above doorways or other windows, and can provide light without compromising privacy or taking up space. I added a few transom windows in my hallway and bathroom, and it made a noticeable difference in both the brightness and airflow. Transom and clerestory windows are especially useful in smaller rooms, corridors, or bathrooms, where traditional windows may not be an option. They’re also ideal for creating a more open, airy feeling without losing wall space or compromising privacy.

6. Incorporate Glass Doors

Another excellent way to increase natural light is by installing glass doors. Replacing solid doors with glass alternatives allows sunlight to flow through into the room behind it. I replaced a solid wood door leading out to my backyard with a sliding glass door, and the effect was remarkable. The amount of light that now filters into the living room and hallway has completely transformed the atmosphere. Glass doors are a stylish and functional choice, particularly for connecting indoor and outdoor spaces. They allow you to enjoy the natural beauty of your surroundings while bringing in additional light. Depending on your style, you can opt for clear, frosted, or textured glass to add some privacy if needed.

7. Landscaping for Better Light

While the architectural changes to my home made a significant impact, I also made sure to consider the outdoor environment around my home. Landscaping can have a major influence on how much light enters your home. Overgrown trees, shrubs, or vines can block natural light from reaching windows, so trimming or replacing these plants can open up space and allow more sunlight to penetrate your home. I had to prune some of the trees in my yard that were blocking the sunlight from reaching my living room windows. The result was not only better light, but also a clearer view of the outdoors.

8. Consider Smart Technology for Lighting Control

Lastly, in addition to architectural changes, I also added smart lighting systems to control the amount of light in my home. Smart lighting allows you to adjust the brightness of your lights throughout the day, depending on the amount of natural light coming in. I’ve set my smart lights to dim automatically when the sunlight pours in, which helps create a more energy-efficient home. By combining the use of natural light with modern technology, you can optimize the lighting in your home and create an environment that’s both beautiful and sustainable.