Before I discuss today's topics, I wanted to let you know that I'm offering a secret sale for my Practical Home Design course. As a thank-you for signing up, my newsletter subscribers will receive 15% off the course. Use the code THECURATIONS to receive this offer on your purchase of the course.

Whether you’re looking to create a cozy bedroom or simply want to add some light to your living space, this week's curation of textured table lamps will definitely enhance the ambiance of any room. In this newsletter, I will also explore seven ways you can brighten a dark room.

1. ​Brown Vintage Resin Table Lamp, $167, Rug USA
2. ​Abbott Ceramic Table Lamp, $475, McGee&CO.
3. ​Vintage Resin Amphora Table Lamp, $131, Rug USA
4. ​ULLA Table Lamp, A$244, Freedom (AU/WW)
5. ​Ceramic Table Lamp, $90, Zara Home
6. ​Bed Threads Ceramic Lamp, A$176, Bed Threads (AU/WW)
7. ​Rocio Table Lamp, $495, Banana Republic Home
8. ​Large Ceramic Table Lamp Black, $75, Target
9. ​Florence Ceramic Table Lamp, A$239, Temple&Webster (AU)
10. ​Rustic Ceramic Table Lamp, from $70, Zara Home

Beautiful Space

Weekly Learnings & Findings

How To Make Your Room Brighter

Clutter
​This may seem obvious, but my first tip is to tidy and clean up. How long has it been since you last cleaned your windows? Are there overgrown bushes or branches that hang over your windows and cast shadows? Getting rid of built up dust, dirt and debris on windows as well as trimming overgrown branches and bushes can make a massive difference to the amount of light that enters into your room. It’s a super simple trick that many people overlook.

Once that is done, continue with the inside. Get rid of unnecessary clutter, those items just lying around that make the room feel smaller and heavier. I wrote about decluttering hacks before here which is worth a quick read.

Mirror
​Strategically placed mirrors are one of the oldest tricks in the book. Any light that comes their way will be bounced around, making the room look brighter and bigger.

To achieve the best results, you want it to emphasise elements, in this case light. So place a mirror opposite a window. It will not only reflect the maximum amount of light possible but will also make it look like you have an additional window in your room.

Alternatively, try adding reflective surfaces near artificial (warm) lights to create a bright atmosphere.

Layer Your Lighting
​If your room isn’t lit well naturally, then you need to focus on enhancing your artificial lighting. There are four main types of lighting including overhead, ambient, task and accent.

Overhead lighting is located on the ceiling. Often people solely rely on this type of lighting which can create unflattering shadows and make a space feel darker if not used in conjunction with other lighting types.

Ambient lighting has a soft, natural feeling and has the capacity to really brighten up a space. Examples are lamps or pendants with fabric or opaque glass shades. Light materials like linen are great light diffusers without blocking the glow.

Task lighting is used in areas where a specific task is completed like writing, reading or preparing food. Examples are desk lamps and vanity lights. Finally, accent lighting is used to bring attention to specific areas in a room such as an architectural detail or artwork. They are often spot lights or recessed LED light strips.

You should aim to layer at least two or three of these lighting types to brighten up your rooms. I have a whole video about how to perfectly light a space that I suggest you check out.

Style With Furniture That Feels Spacious
​Furniture that is bulky and heavy will make a space feel darker as it will block out light and cast shadows. Instead use streamline furniture to make a room feel brighter.

Furniture pieces in the Scandinavian or Mid-Century Modern style are usually really good options as they are slimline and low slung. These furniture styles usually have space beneath them which is great as it will allow the maximum amount of light possible to flow around the room.

Otherwise look for furniture that reflects light well. This may be furniture in light or neutral colours or ones with shiny surfaces such as glass or marble top tables.

Plan Furniture Layout
​In addition to using spacious feeling furniture, you should carefully consider the layout of your furniture in terms of how it affects the brightness of your room.

For example, you should avoid putting heavy or bulky furniture near windows as it will block out light. Similarly, if you have no option other than placing your sofa by the window, consider one with legs or low back to allow more light into the space and avoid blocking the window.

Flooring
​Dark flooring can make an already dark space look dingy so try to opt for lighter coloured carpet or light hardwood flooring if possible.

If you can’t change the colour of your flooring consider putting a light coloured rug in your room as a quick and easy fix. There are many natural coloured rugs such as wool or jute that brighten up spaces nicely without being difficult to keep clean like white or cream polyester rugs.

Heavy Window Treatments
​Heavy curtains will block out natural light, especially if they can not be fully opened and partially cover the window. Instead opt for lightweight or sheer fabrics as they will let the maximum amount of light in and give your space a light and airy feeling, and remember, hang them high and wide. Check out this video for in-depth guide on curtains.

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Struggling with decorating your home?

Check out my Practical Home Design course where I cover a step-by-step process so you, yourself, can confidently make your own choices and design a home that you’ll love. I'll also provide you with guides, handbooks, templates, and a bunch of resources to aid your learning.

See you in a fortnight!

Reynard Lowell

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