Along with the summer solstice, it is officially time to enjoy a bit of sunshine – both outdoors and indoors. Harnessing the natural light in your home can lift your mood and improve your productivity, all while making rooms feel airier and more spacious. But natural light is not only advantageous for your circadian rhythm, government statistics have noted that electricity is approximately four times more expensive per kWh than alternative forms of energy, and that maximising daylight in your home will lead to a drastic reduction of the necessity for artificial lighting, saving considerably on energy bills. If your home is somewhat lacking in natural light, there are things you can do to maximize the light you do have.

Make use of mirrors

Strategically placing decorative mirrors throughout your home will help reflect natural light and can also make a room feel larger. Hanging a mirror on the wall opposite a window can double the light in a room. Other mirrored objects, such as lamps and small end tables, placed around your home will reflect natural light as well.

Choose your colours wisely

A light, bright colour palette might not suit your taste but you can find ways to incorporate both light and dark décor in the interest of maximising natural light. You can balance a dark wall with light, airy window treatments. Small spaces are made smaller by dark, light-absorbing colours so consider limiting dark paint and furniture in your smaller rooms. Using lighter coloured flooring will also brighten your space and make it feel more open.

Keep it shiny

Consider selecting glossy or shiny pieces when decorating your home. Items such as shiny metal appliances in your kitchen, translucent tiles and acrylic chairs will reflect light and can balance out darker décor in a room.

Trim the trees

When working to bring more natural light into your home, don’t forget to think about the outdoors of residential areas. Large, overgrown trees can block light from windows. Make sure that trees and bushes around your property are properly pruned and trimmed. It is also recommended that you avoid having trees on the southern side of your home because they won’t provide shade during the summer and they’ll block the sun’s warmth during the winter.

Keep your windows clean

It might seem like a small thing but keeping your windows clean is essential for maximising the natural light in your home. Dirt, smudges and water spots can all filter out light, so keeping your windows clean – inside and out – is key.

Add skylights and larger windows

If your budget allows for it consider adding a skylight or replacing small windows with larger ones. A skylight will add natural light to a kitchen or living space without making it too bright. Large windows can breathe new life into a previously dark and uninviting space. If you don’t have the budget at the moment or prefer not to replace your windows, get in the habit of opening your curtains and blinds every morning to let in as much natural light as possible.

Find a light-filled home

Whatever style home you are looking for, if natural light is high on your list of priorities, Strutt & Parker can help you with our property search. Make the most of the summer months and let the light in.

Our pick of the homes with the best natural lighting

• 185 Banbury Road, Banbury Road, Oxford OX2 – 185 Banbury Road is an elegant Victorian house which has been carefully restored to include light stone tiled floor, white walls, marble work surfaces, and bi-folding doors leading to the west facing terrace allowing the light to flood in.

• Woodcock Cottage, The Street, Offham, East Sussex BN7 – Despite dating from the 1600s with period features like oak beams and wood burning stoves, the interiors have been designed to feel modern, keeping walls simple and white. This property features immaculate decoration and a glazed door into the sitting room, which is flooded with natural light and has a door leading directly out to the garden.