How to Brighten Your Dark Orangery or Conservatory: 5 Easy Steps

Megan Lupton | February 22nd, 2023 | Conservatories Orangeries Style & Design

As the nights grow cold and dark, you may be tempted to shut the doors to your orangery or conservatory until the summer months. Not so fast, our latest guide includes five top tips for brightening your dark orangery or conservatory.

1: Install Larger Windows and Doors

The best way to brighten your orangery or conservatory is to install larger windows and doors. This will allow more natural light to stream into your extension and keep the space lit for longer. Large glass windows and doors will also make the space feel open and airy, avoiding the cramped feeling that people often associate with dark rooms.

Bonus: Skylight

A bonus tip from Palmers Orangeries and Conservatories is to invest in a skylight. Installed in the ceiling, they allow natural light to stream directly into your orangery or conservatory. At night, you can even stargaze through your skylight, while wrapped in a soft blanket.

2: Add a Couple of Mirrors

A couple of well-placed mirrors will reflect the light across your dark orangery or conservatory. This cost-effective addition to your room will be as stylish as it is practical; simply place a large mirror opposite your glass windows or doors to make the room appear bright, stylish and spacious.

3: Choose Strip Lighting

A couple of strips of lighting placed under your cabinets and tables will add vital light to your dark extension, while not compromising the available space. You can choose either natural, cool-toned or warm light, and some strips even offer multi-coloured options - completely customisable! Illuminate your furniture with stylish strip lights.

4: Opt for Bright, Light Paint

Dark wall paint and wallpaper can create a cold atmosphere in your extension, so opt for bright, light colours. If your orangery or conservatory is too dark, consider hanging a couple of bright, colourful framed photos or even redecorating your extension with a lighter colour palette.

5: Organise the Space

A cluttered extension will cast dark shadows across your room, adding to the issue. Excess items or furniture can also make you feel overwhelmed. Before you start repainting your walls or buying new lights, try removing any unnecessary furniture and remodelling the room to take advantage of the available space.

Bonus: Clean the Glass

Another quick fix for a dark conservatory or orangery is to clean the glass. Moss, dirt and other debris can build up over time, reducing the amount of light that can enter your extension. Make sure to practice caution, as working at height can be a safety hazard, or use a local extension maintenance service.

Brighten Your Extension with Palmers

If you wish to choose Palmers Orangeries and Conservatories as your local, experienced and professional extension experts, use our easy online contact form to reach a member of our team. 

Contact Us

To read more about our previous projects and happy clients, check out our reviews, testimonials and case studies. Then, either visit our showroom, or contact our senior team on 0115 982 0820 | 07971 694 914