The pure golden sunlight pouring into our houses and that which we try to stop by pulling our curtains is actually healthy and is even said to improve our emotional well being. We all know that an absence of sunlight in a house will make it dark, cold and will breed insects. However much you may try to do its décor with colour and furniture, the lack of warmth will tell.

While one cannot always get lucky in getting a house with the right amount of light and breeze, there are tips you can follow to facilitate the entry of natural light into your home.

Clean your windows

What mummy always did, right? Actually, it is surprising how little attention we pay to this fundamental source of light into our homes. And when we do pay attention and clean it, we are surprised at the sudden brightness in the room.

Use glass instead of opaque surfaces

Try using a glass door, if you can afford to have one. Even a lightly stained glass door will bring the light in while allowing you your privacy. 

Avoid cutting the light from the window

Do not place furniture in front of your windows. Though most of us like to put our work desk near the window, make sure the furniture does not block too much light for the rest of the room. Also avoid hanging curtains that cover the entire glass, unless privacy is a big problem.

Use of short height plants

Do not place large pots with tall plants at the edge of the windows, as they can also block the light.

Lightly decorated interior

Light interiors will reflect natural light pouring into it while dark colours will not. Remember that while choosing your colours and your upholstery. A wall painted in shades of cream and white will definitely make your room look brighter. 

I know it is difficult to make major changes in your home interior such as painting a wall or changing the color of a floor, but there are ways to minimize the damage. For example, "plug" a dark floor with light carpet or throw a light coloured cushion on a dark sofa.

So these are my tips for clearer homes with natural light. What do you think should we do to bring the light in?