Victoria Brocklesby at Origin shares insights on simple as well as more creative ways to maximise natural light in residential properties
Natural light in a home has all kinds of benefits, including improving health and wellbeing, alongside performing the practical role of illuminating spaces. There are simple ways to maximise light using glazing, as well as more dynamic and creative ways.
Function
How to best maximise natural light will depend on the function of the room and where it is in a property. For example, a kitchen extension at the back of a house offers the ideal opportunity to make a statement and flood the space with light. Doing this will also benefit adjoining rooms as the light will filter through the home.
Product types
To pull as much of this all-important light into a room as possible, opt for a combination of slimline sliding doors, or bi-fold doors, and larger panels of fixed glazing. Replacing solid internal doors with designs that feature glazing, such as internal bi-fold doors, will also help filter light throughout a home. These not only let light stream in, but also break up space without creating a cramped or closed off feeling, fitting the growing ‘broken plan’ trend.
Glazed extensions are another option. These are growing in popularity because they help bring in light, but also add an interesting, modern design feature that works well with both contemporary and period properties. If limited by planning or budget constraints, a single wall or section of bi-fold or sliding doors will have a similar effect. Not only will they pull in lots of natural light for that airy, open feel, but they will also mean that the space can be physically extended when the doors are open, as the inside space will seamlessly connect to the outdoors. This works particularly well for clients with families, or those who enjoy entertaining.
Product configuration
When using bi-folds, make a statement with fewer but larger leaves (glass panes) to maximise the glazing. Also consider opting for a level threshold between inside and out and using the same flooring in the kitchen and outdoor dining area to create a seamless feel.
Room size
Not all spaces are created equal; for smaller projects where functionality needs to take priority when it comes to fitted elements of the room, like cabinets in a kitchen, consider other ways to increase the feeling of space in the room.
The choice of windows can make or break a client’s enjoyment of a room and transform everyday tasks from mundane to a pleasure. After all, it’s so much nicer to gaze out onto flower beds instead of a blank wall.
Large picture windows, bi-folding windows or corner windows are great options for maximising the view, without taking up as much wall space as doors. Aluminium frames also benefit from ultra slim sightlines to further help bring the outdoors in.
Remember, windows do not have to be at eye level. Be creative with window design and positioning. For example, consider fitting a combination of window styles and sizes at various heights.
Clerestory-style windows (a row of windows set above eye level) or one or two fixed, narrow vertical windows are a great way to switch things up. These can be used in conjunction with standard windows to add interest and maximise light.
Gable end windows are another sure-fire way to make a design statement whilst maximising light. They are also the perfect solution where a shallow roof pitch needs
to be taken into consideration, for example loft conversions.
Room orientation
For areas of a home where adding large panels of glazing is not an option, consider the orientation of the home to make the most of the natural sunlight. An east-facing wall will benefit from sun in the morning but be in shade by the afternoon. Use this to the homeowner’s advantage by considering when they will be using certain rooms most. If it is an office, prioritise south-facing walls for glazing so the room benefits from light throughout the day. There are several types of daylight tracking software which will help with this.
Victoria Brocklesby is COO at Origin