Darren Kennedy: These clever design tricks mean you don’t need bay windows to let light into a room

Now that the clocks have changed, I like sunny days. Light is one of the most important aspects of interior design and has a huge impact on our mood. I spend a lot of time in Los Angeles, where many homes are built to take advantage of that brilliant light from the Pacific Ocean.

If you don’t have huge glass sliders letting in natural light, a shade of white on the walls is the best option to create that airy feel in a dark room or north-facing home. Likewise, a light ash wood floor or a cream carpet or rug can transform the feeling of light in a room.

Trunk coffee table with three drawers, €1,295, Halo Luxe, DFS

You can always use bright, bold colors to enhance a small room, but highlight it on particular areas. Try painting kitchen presses, cupboards or a cupboard or cupboard in a bright color and it will add a cheerful splash of color, while also brightening up the space. Try a mustard yellow or burnt orange for a more grown-up use of primary colors and opt for an eggshell consistency instead of matte as it will reflect even more light.

If you’re worried about using too much color, try painting only the architraves or window sills. It’s amazing how a little touch like this can open up a room.

I’m a big fan of mirrors – not because I like looking in them! – but because they make you believe that a space is both bigger and brighter. Place large mirrors strategically so that they face any large light sources. This will maximize light reflection in the room. Indeed, any reflective object will have the same effect in the room, so a mirrored or lacquered top on a coffee table or a shimmering chandelier or gold ornaments will all do a job of bouncing extra light around.

Sienna round mirror, €52.99, Littlewoods Ireland

Likewise, introduce different types of lighting into your room. If you can, make sure your main overhead light is dimmable, then add plenty of lamps and task lights to create a cozy atmosphere.

Try not to close the space with furniture. Opt for a glass coffee table instead of heavy wood; thin fittings and fixtures instead of thick; open back shelves instead of panels. Again, these may seem like small things, but they can make a big difference.

If your windows are small, it’s important to keep them as uncovered as possible. Don’t hang dark, heavy curtains around a small window frame. Add a nice little roman shade or roller blind that you can pull all the way up. So sit back and let the light into your home – and into your life!

Sarah coffee table, €199, michaelmurphy.ie

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