Midnight in a Mineshaft: Avoid the Winter Blues With Light and Bright Decor

By Kerri-Lee Mayland

You see them all the time: interior design photos on Pinterest or Instagram of gorgeous rooms seemingly bathed in endless amounts of sunshine and light. But what if it’s wintertime in New England?

When the days are short, the nights are long and it starts to feel like, well, midnight in a mineshaft in our homes, what can we do to bring hints of summer sunshine in? The answer is a lot. It’s not just the weather we see this time of year that can leave homes dank and drab; if you live in a north-facing home or apartment, this is something you deal with all year long. Or…maybe you live in a Tudor in the woods.

One of my favorite clients does live in a traditional Tudor manse tucked in dense woods in the most peaceful, magical setting. But let’s call a spade a spade: it’s dark. Lighting was a huge consideration when renovating their bedroom. Even though I began the project in the brightest of summer months, light was far from sufficient (lucky them, they jet off to Florida this time of year!). There is no light problem that can’t be improved upon. We focused on a combination of maximizing whatever light we could let in while making careful choices about other pieces we brought into their room. There are some careful choices you can make to keep a sunny disposition year-round while keeping winter blues at bay.

Light Colors
It’s not rocket science, but it is worth the reminder that light colors reflect more light and will make a room feel open and brighter. My son always accuses me of painting walls white, but I promise I only do it when it makes the most sense (I’m a color girl too). But think about it for your space: is white right on the walls, ceiling or even the furniture, where appropriate? Soft pastels and neutrals can also create a soothing, airy atmosphere. If you lean towards darker moody hues, only use them as accents.

If You Have It, Use It
Even if natural light is scarce, that is ok; use every little bit of whatever you have. I have encouraged many clients to clean off their windowsill or think carefully about adding decorative shelving in a window that does not get much light. You can use sheers or blinds that can either be light-filtering or left open during the day to take advantage of the light you get. Whatever you do, don’t take it for granted and cover it up.

Mirror, Mirror
This is a trick I use all the time to make a space feel bigger and brighter. Add a window, and without any construction at all, you have just created another way to capture natural light! Hang your mirrors where they can reflect light while adding depth and dimension. No space for a mirror? Mirrored furniture and decor, like a coffee table tray, can help amplify natural light in a room too.

Layered Lighting
Whatever you do, don’t rely on overhead “house” lighting to make a room feel well-lit and cozy. It just won’t. You need different sources that all do something different in a space; I always use at least three. Ambient lighting is a primary source, such as your ceiling fixture or recessed cans. Task lighting focuses on specific activities like reading, cooking, under-cabinet lights and floor lamps. Accent lighting highlights an area or objects like wall sconces, gallery lights and LED strip lighting.

Lucious Lacquer
There is not much I love more than the opportunity to use ultra-high gloss paint in a project. It’s such a luxurious thing; while it’s expensive, there are ways to get the look on a more timid budget. It’s worth it with how the gloss and shine move light around in a room. Instead of spending the thousands it would cost to paint a wall, consider a high-gloss piece of furniture and let the light bounce off it. Shiny metal or glossy tiles also add the same effect by encouraging sparkle and light.

Don’t Forget the Floors
Just as with walls, light-colored floors can help brighten a room. Obviously, that’s not always in budget. Often, we must make the best of the flooring we are stuck with. But don’t despair as adding rugs with lighter or brighter colors can easily achieve the same thing. A large, light rug can reflect light and make the space feel more open.

Strategic Furniture Placement
Arrange your furniture to allow light to flow freely through the room. Avoid blocking windows with large pieces of furniture and opt for streamlined designs that don’t dominate the space. Furniture with legs can also create a more open feel, allowing light to pass underneath.

Cozy Elements
Midnight in a mineshaft can be cozy occasionally. While brightening a space is essential, maintaining a sense of coziness is equally important. Don’t get so light and bright it feels like an operation room, bright and sterile.

Go Hygge with your new lightened space, which is a Danish and Norwegian word for feeling cozy and content, a mood evoked by your surroundings. Use soft, textured fabrics, throws and layered rugs. Bring in natural elements like wood, wicker and plants. Candles and strong lights can add a touch of magic to your bright new snug space. And don’t forget a mug of your favorite hot beverage.

By thoughtfully combining these techniques, you can transform even the darkest of spaces into a fresh feeling retreat. Embrace the challenge of working with limited natural light. Let your creativity shine to create a warm, welcoming home, even in the depths of winter in New England.