How to make a windowless room seem brighter

Whether it’s a powder room, a basement or an office, a room with no windows can be dark and hard to decorate. Here are a few tips to help you brighten your windowless room.

• Play with lighting. Install overhead pot lights evenly across the whole ceiling. Set up a few table or standing lamps for times you don’t want all the lights on.

• Use the right colors. Opting for pastels or light neutrals will give the room an airy, open feel. Stick with a simple color scheme and avoid contrasting shades.

• Hang a mirror or two. Mirrors reflect light, making the space seem brighter and bigger. Metallic, glass and other reflective surfaces have the same effect.

• Keep it simple. To keep the space feeling open and light, choose streamlined furniture and avoid filling the room with too many decorations.

• Install interior windows. If possible, replace a door or wall between two rooms with a frosted glass window or door. This will allow light from the adjoining room into your windowless space.

Even a windowless room can be light and airy. Follow these tips to make it a space you’ll love to spend time in.