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The shortest days: how to bring more light into your home in December

Now that the clocks have gone back, it is dark by five. Four simple ways to make your home feel lighter, by day and in the evening.

Since the clocks went back an hour, it is dark at five and still dusky at eight. Your home feels smaller and heavier. With four small changes you get more out of the little daylight there is, and make the evenings lighter.

Clear the windowsill

Large plants and piles of things on the windowsill block more light than you think. In winter, keep only low things there and leave the middle free.

Use a mirror to catch light

A large mirror next to the window sends daylight deep into the room. The effect is greatest in north-facing rooms.

Switch to light textiles

Dark throws and cushions are cosy, but they swallow light. A few cushion covers in a soft, light shade and an off-white throw make a room lighter straight away, without it getting cold.

Let lamps switch on by themselves

A table lamp with a timer or a smart plug means the light is already on when you get home. A small thing that makes every evening nicer.

Vaas met bloemen voor het raam
Foto: Unsplash

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