Natural vs Artificial Lighting
Light is becoming a very important design element for homes so understanding natural vs artificial lighting helps know what options you have. When remodeling or building a custom home, keep in mind the placement of natural lighting such as windows, skylights and tubular skylights. It is important for your overall comfort, health and productivity. Studies show natural lighting creates a more calm and less stressful indoor environment. While artificial lighting has greatly improved, it can feel gloomy due to insufficient brightness on wall and ceilings. Natural light from skylights or windows creates a pleasant and up beat environment. Also natural light increases the resale value of a home.
Sustainability
While skylights may be seen as a luxury item they are actually a green home improvement and is an important tool in attaining sustainability. The production of electricity is a large contributor of pollution. An added bonus to using natural lighting is the decrease of the amount of electricity used and reduction in electric bills. Both natural and artificial lighting are great interior and exterior design tools. Skylights up your home make a space feel more open, flowing and inviting. Artificial lighting such as LED and solar lighting increase safety and security indoors and out. In addition, artificial lighting is useful for indoor gardening.
When Remodeling
You have options when remodeling and adding natural light. Installing skylights or sun tunnels is easier when you are designing a new home or an addition. Plan your rooms for maximum daylighting with skylights, sun tunnels and window placement. What about an interior or hallway that does not allow for skylights or windows? Consider sun tunnels and tubular skylights. They provide natural lighting by collecting light and reflecting it through metal tube and guiding it into dark interior spaces. Remember you can accessorize with items such as blinds which reduce glare, control the amount of light and shield from outside heat.