What’s the biggest way you can transform the space in your home? The answer is simpler than you might imagine – with light. Light can make a home seem bigger and brighter, as well as create a sense of coziness and warmth.

Bringing more light into your home is actually quite easy. Here are a few suggestions.

Utilize Mirrors & Reflective Surfaces

Mirrors are the perfect solution for creating more light. No matter where you place them, they will bounce the available light back into a room as well as create the illusion of more space. It’s best to place them across from windows, if possible – this will double the amount of light in a room. However, even placed in other areas, they will enhance the amount of light. Reflective objects (like vases with shiny finishes, for instance) can also achieve this effect, particularly if they are lighter in color, allowing them to reflect a higher amount of light.

Lighten Your Color Palette

If your décor centers on darker shades like black, navy, dark browns, or jewel tones, you might find that your space feels dark – that’s because these colors will absorb light. Lighter colors, however, will reflect light. Throw a dove gray slipcover over your brown couch. Get a white comforter for your bed. Add some light-colored throw pillows to the living room. You can even take this one step further and give your furniture a makeover by painting everything white.

Lighten Your Curtains

If you have curtains over the windows, make sure they are a light color. This makes a huge difference in brightening and lightening a room, as curtains have a large visual “footprint” in a room. Sheer curtains are a great bet, particularly in winter, because they let in so much light. Remember, you can always switch them out for darker curtains in the summer if you need to block out extra light and heat.

Wash the Windows

Sure, this one is simple and obvious, but many people don’t realize what a difference this simple action makes. Be sure to do this at least once a year. Spring is a great time to tackle this chore, once the worst of the winter storms have passed. Don’t forget to wash outside as well, when possible.

For more life hacks, follow the Olympus Town Center blog.