Some prefer to go for a dark, cosy feel – but for most, spaces that let natural light pour in are sought-after features that can be elusive in some properties. Aside from the aesthetic appeal, exposure to natural light is also good for our health and happiness, from boosting mood and enhancing productivity to helping us get a better night’s sleep.
Natural light enhances your living space – but it also adds value to your property if and when you’re looking to sell. Research shows that interiors with ample natural light can increase property value by up to 5% – and homes with abundant natural light tend to sell faster than those with poor lighting.
As a versatile, organic material, timber lends itself perfectly to window configurations which help to enhance the amount of natural light in your home. With careful consideration and intelligent design, even the darkest, most uninviting spaces can be completely transformed.
What are the benefits of bringing natural light indoors?
Extensive research and a host of studies show that human beings respond best when they are exposed to a good amount of natural light every day. As mammals, we need plenty of exposure to real daylight to help us feel good and function well. It influences many aspects of mental and physical health from vitamin D synthesis to the regulation of our circadian rhythm (what helps us to sleep and wake up at the same time each day). Many of the illnesses and conditions on the rise today have been attributed to too much time spent indoors and lower exposure to sunlight. Furthermore, screens and LEDs emit light at different frequencies (some of which are also harmful to health).
Natural light in the home has been linked to better sleep, improved mood, enhanced productivity and can even improve pain levels, emotional wellbeing and hormone balance. On an aesthetic level, natural light is also a desirable feature for any home – contributing to a bright and happy environment. Natural light effortlessly makes rooms feel more spacious and airy, enhancing comfort and our connection to nature even when we are indoors. Despite this many smaller modern homes and properties can be prone to having more dimly lit spaces, which can feel dark and dingy as opposed to bright and expansive.
Why are timber windows the natural choice for enhancing light levels indoors?
Timber is a great material for outsized or oversized frames and can be used for skylights and roof windows, bay windows and casement units which are often used to help bring more light to traditionally darker spaces. As timber window frames are designed and built from scratch they can be crafted to your unique specifications, enabling you to create the perfect ambience and style.
For properties needing a little extra help to enhance natural light levels, standard windows can be transformed into feature floor-to-ceiling glass walls or bi-fold door units, and extensions can be brightened up with the help of ceiling lanterns and skylights. We can even create bespoke orangeries and conservatory spaces from timber, allowing natural light to flood previously dark spaces. Timber itself also lends a natural, organic feel to a space, especially if it isn’t painted and is left in its raw state.
What types of windows are best to improve the flow of natural light?
Many traditional timber frame styles naturally lend themselves to being excellent light conductors, offering capacity for maximum glass exposure and wider openings which more effectively capture and channel natural light into your living spaces. Timber window frames are versatile and can be specially designed and built to your unique specifications, incorporating a wide variety of shapes, sizes and locations. Window styles that let in the most natural light include:
Bay or bow windows: These classic window styles have started to make a comeback in recent years after many were replaced with standard flat units due to their cost and upkeep. Bay windows are beautiful in themselves and create a focal point both inside your property and externally. With their expanded, curved silhouette and multiple panes capturing light from different angles, bay and bow windows both allow much more sunlight into your home.
Ceiling skylights: Skylights are an excellent option if your property is overlooked or doesn’t have access to much natural light due to its location or surroundings. They can also be used to open up roof spaces, extensions, and garage conversions to create more usable rooms in the home. Installing skylights is one of the easiest ways to bring lots of beautiful fresh light to a space whilst also maintaining privacy. In recent years more people are opting for timber skylights for their aesthetic appeal and green credentials.
Picture windows: Picture windows are a popular choice and are suitable for most homes – even smaller properties. This larger, wider style of window allows sunlight to pour into your home with a flat, open design which maximises natural light and the external view. Picture windows aren’t the best option for every space as they are fixed – so where ventilation is a concern or where windows need to be openable floor-to-ceiling windows may be a better option.
Floor-to-ceiling windows: Similar to picture windows, floor-to-ceiling windows offer a dramatic contemporary feel to your property and make a bold statement. Floor-to-ceiling windows effortlessly maximise light levels and bring the outside in, helping to create an open, airy atmosphere.
Glass doors: Where window units are too small to let in light you can create an extended window featuring bi-fold or traditional doors which open to your outdoor space. Like floor-to-ceiling windows, these offer a practical and beautiful way to enhance natural light levels in your home.
If you’re keen to introduce more natural light flow into your property, it’s important to consider the placement of windows, too. Assess which directions you tend to get the most sunlight from throughout the day, and think about other factors such as insulation and thermal transfer, as naturally bright spaces can also get very warm without adequate ventilation.
For this most clients work with an architect or designer, but we can also advise you on what’s possible and which window styles may work best for you with our extensive experience spanning over twenty years.
Get in touch today for professional advice from our master craftsmen or to discuss your unique project.
