The Best Light is Natural Light!

Keith Sawlor, October 1, 2013 | Posted in Build; Tagged Energy Efficiency, Design Considerations

There are many benefits to having more natural light in your home. For one, utilizing natural light instead of turning on your light fixtures saves energy and thus lowers your electricity bill. Another benefit, also related to energy use, is natural light can help heat your home. It also brings out the beauty in fabrics and furniture and can have a positive effect on mood, energy and stress levels.

The position of your home on your lot in relationship to the sun rising and setting can be one of the most important factors in maximizing the use of the sun. The sun is always to our south which means whichever wall is facing south will receive the most sunlight. Designing your home with this in mind, you’d want to have the most often used rooms, such as your kitchen and laundry, on this south wall to take advantage of the natural light.

The easiest way to get natural light into your home is with windows. The modern trend in homes is toward larger windows for more increased light. The windows today are energy-efficient with low-E (low emissivity) which can make the most of natural light. 

Pull curtains back and shades up during the day and don’t block light with furniture in front of the windows. Use white or light colours throughout the room to reflect natural light that comes in. White painted trim around the windows helps as well. Get light coloured furniture that you can add brighter or deeper splashes of colour in the form of pillows or throws. Heavy fabrics like velvets can weight down a room, while light fabrics such as linen and cotton lighten a room. Mirrors reflect light so by hanging a large mirror on a wall opposite a window you can double the light streaming in.

Light is becoming a very important design element in your home. Studies have shown that when people live in well lit environments, they function better and are happier and healthier.  

Keith Sawlor

Keith Sawlor is the second generation Owner of Sawlor Built Homes. With more than 35 years experience building custom homes in Nova Scotia, Keith has built a team that mirrors his professional knowledge and values.

Keith is a Certified Residential Builder who is also certified with many leading industry organizations. He is a Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) Certified Builder, a Net Zero Energy (NZE) Certified Builder, a Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) R-2000 Certified Builder, and a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS).

Keith is a Past Board Member of the Atlantic Home Warranty Program as well as the Canadian Home Builders' Association Nova Scotia. He is involved in many other industry programs and associations, such as the Canadian Home Builders’ Association National and Better Business Bureau.