Simple solutions for low-light spaces

Sometimes our living spaces don't live up to their potential, often the reason is poor lighting. Even the best decor can fall flat with poor lighting, while getting the light right can take a room from blah to wow.

Here are five lighting solutions to help you make the most of the room and decor.

1. Don't waste the light you already have.

A space can have lots of natural light and still be dark. A common mistake that affects the light in a room is framing a large window in a dark color. If you have a lot of light, frame this window with a dark curtain or an accent wall that will create a portal effect. The contrast of light and dark effectively transforms light into glare.

To compensate for this effect, use a lighter paint color to frame the light itself. If you're working with a darker color in the room, try an accent wall in a lighter shade. If you like draperies or just don't want the hassle of painting, install curtains in a lighter color that complements the overall decor and softens the edges of incoming light.

2. Diffuse light in large spaces.

Large rooms can be difficult to light, as it can require a lot of planning to ensure every nook and cranny is accounted for. Portable devices such as desk lamps and floor lamps are comfortable for reading, but have limited illumination, leaving the room overall dark (especially when natural light is not an option).

Recessed lighting can be a great option for adding an even level of light throughout a space. Not to forget recessed lighting can be difficult to plan for, as it is uncomfortable and unpleasant if misplaced or overused. While general spacing guides abound, there is no general rule. Review the details of the fixture you have selected and be sure to work with a lighting specialist to ensure correct placement.

3. Create windows.

Some rooms have few windows, which can make a room feel dark even during the day. While adding a window may be out of the budget, you can work some magic with light and create one yourself. A well-placed mirror not only causes light to penetrate further into the room, but it also sends light in another direction, tricking the eye into thinking there is another light source.

Place a mirror at a 90-degree angle to the window to make the most of the incoming light and to ensure that the light will bounce around the room and not out the window. Matching the shape and size of the mirror to the window in question helps enhance the illusion.

4. Improve architectural details.

When lighting a room, leave nothing out, especially when it comes to architectural details. Double-height spaces, open woodwork, and similar details can eat up available lighting, losing the very drama that was built into your space.

For example, open beams can be an impressive feature. Light sources will help them stand out in space. Not only do they provide a stunning effect on the beams themselves, but the ambient lighting will also wash out the room. Consider the details of the space and see what will work best to bring drama.

5. Perfect your (color) palette.

The human eye is quite sensitive to color. While you may not subscribe to a full Technicolor philosophy, it's important to pay attention to pigments when your space needs light. While rich, deep tones can be trendy and impressive, they can spell doom and gloom for a room that's already leaning toward the dark side. Darker colors absorb more light; the lower the tone, the more light you lose.

But you don't have to miss this cool color: just tone it down to keep your space from closing in on you. For rooms that lack natural light, a desaturated shade of the deep color you love provides all the style without darkening the space. For example, if you're looking at black, tone it down to a medium gray instead. This will give you the look you want without eating up all the light.

With thoughtful planning, even the darkest spaces can seem lighter. A simple change can brighten things up in no time.