So you’ve opted to convert your loft into a spare bedroom/an extra bathroom/a home office or simply a room in which to indulge in your hobbies. However, despite the great job done by your loft conversion contractors, the space feels dim, gloomy and unwelcoming.
The cause will undoubtedly be the lack of light, which can make your lovely new loft room seem small and dingy. But fear not: there are a few simple ways in which you can brighten up your loft, bringing it to life.
Natural Light
Being exposed to sunlight has long been known to have positive effects on our mood, productivity and health, so encouraging as much of it as possible to enter our living and working spaces is vital for maximising its potential.
The best way to do this is (surprise, surprise) by having a loft window installed – either a Velux skylight or a window fitted into a dormer conversion.
The former involves the addition of a skylight to the pitch (or slope) of the roof, allowing for a practical and attractive window that can be used to increase the available ventilation.
The latter necessitates more extensive work; namely having the roof altered to accommodate a dormer conversion. This is where one side of the slope (usually the rear) is levelled and boxed off to form a vertical wall on one side of the loft. Not only does this increase the headroom and overall space within the room, it means a larger window can be fitted to increase natural light filtration.
Electric Lighting
When the nights draw in, and natural light isn’t an option regardless of whether you have sufficient window space or not, it’s time to turn to manmade alternatives.
Spot lighting is a popular choice in many lofts, as the bulbs are recessed into the ceiling, taking up none of the valuable headspace. The light they generate is perfect for creating a relaxing ambience – particularly if they are controlled via a dimmer switch, as they often are.
Some carefully positioned floor lamps can provide sufficient illumination, and upwards facing ones will accentuate the angles of the roof pitch in an aesthetically pleasing manner.
Additional Tips
A well-placed mirror can go a long way to dispersing light throughout a room. Position them opposite windows to reflect the sun’s rays into corners they would not otherwise reach.
Brightly coloured walls don’t always equate to a light and airy room – although darker colours may increase a gloomy feel. Concentrate on other forms of loft lighting before opting to paint the whole thing bright yellow!
LMB Group are the leading providers of conversion services in across London and the surrounding areas. Our fully qualified and experienced team are on hand to take care of your new loft conversion, from the design stage right through to sign off, and can provide advice and assistance regarding window and lighting options.
Get in touch today for more information or to request a free quote with no hidden costs.
