EXTERNAL ENVELOPE Natural enhancements
Victoria Brocklesby at Origin shares insights on simple as well as more creative ways to maximise natural light in residential properties
atural light in a home has all kinds of benefits, including improving health and wellbeing, alongside performing the practical role of illuminating spaces. There are simple ways to maximise light using glazing, as well as more dynamic and creative ways.
N Function
How to best maximise natural light will depend on the function of the room and where it is in a property. For example, a kitchen extension at the back of a house offers the ideal opportunity to make a statement and flood the space with light. Doing this will also benefit adjoining rooms as the light will filter through the home.
Product types To pull as much of this all-important light into a room as possible, opt for a combination of slimline sliding doors, or bi- fold doors, and larger panels of fixed glazing. Replacing solid internal doors with designs that feature glazing, such as internal bi-fold doors, will also help filter light throughout a home. These not only let light stream in, but also break up space without creating a cramped or closed off feeling, fitting the growing ‘broken plan’ trend.
Glazed extensions are another option. These are growing in popularity because they help bring in light, but also add an interesting, modern design feature that works well with both contemporary and period properties. If limited by planning or budget constraints, a single wall or section of bi-fold or sliding doors will have a similar effect. Not only will they pull in lots of natural light for that airy, open feel, but they will also mean that the space can be physically extended when the doors are open, as the inside space will seamlessly connect to the outdoors. This works particularly well for clients with families, or those who enjoy entertaining.
Product configuration When using bi-folds, make a statement with fewer but larger leaves (glass panes) to
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maximise the glazing. Also consider opting for a level threshold between inside and out and using the same flooring in the kitchen and outdoor dining area to create a seamless feel.
Room size
Not all spaces are created equal; for smaller projects where functionality needs to take priority when it comes to fitted elements of the room, like cabinets in a kitchen, consider other ways to increase the feeling of space in the room.
The choice of windows can make or break
a client’s enjoyment of a room and transform everyday tasks from mundane to a pleasure. After all, it’s so much nicer to gaze out onto flower beds instead of a blank wall. Large picture windows, bi-folding windows or corner windows are great options for maximising the view, without taking up as much wall space as doors. Aluminium frames also benefit from ultra
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Replacing solid internal doors with designs that feature glazing fits into the growing ‘broken plan’ trend
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