It’s not winter yet, but the early fall days are already getting shorter, and sometimes it feels like the summer sunshine is passing by faster than our last vacation. And the cold is not far behind. In fact, the average first date the thermometer hits freezing near Lake Michigan in fall is Oct. 14!

 

So, when it comes to keeping up cheerful sunny spirits well into Halloween and beyond, and warming both our spirits and our homes, it’s all about maximizing natural light. Here are some simple but effective interior decorating hacks to make the most of the daylight this fall.

 

One of the easiest ways to increase access to natural light is by rearranging your furniture. If you have large or bulky pieces like armoires near windows or in places where light could be blocked, consider moving them. Put your chairs, sofas and desks near windows to capitalize on the daylight and create lanes or passages that allow you to approach the glass. Position reflective surfaces, such as glass-topped tables or light-colored furniture, where they can bounce morning or evening light (whichever you’re craving) deeper into the room, enhancing the overall brightness.

 

Heavy drapes and dark curtains can make a room feel cozy and provide extra insulation during our long Midwestern winters, but they also limit the amount of sunlight that can enter. This fall, consider swapping them out for lighter options. Sheer curtains, for example, let light filter through while still giving privacy. Roman shades or light-colored blinds can also be a good compromise, offering function without sacrificing sunlight.

 

Mirrors are a great tool for amplifying the available light. By strategically placing mirrors opposite or near windows, you can reflect light around a room, making it appear larger and brighter. Don’t forget about accessories, either. Metallic and glossy finishes on picture frames and decorative accents can also reflect light, adding a touch of sparkle to your space as the sunlight hits them.

 

Color and fabric play big roles in how light interacts with a room. Lighter paint colors, particularly whites, creams and pastels, can make a room feel more open and airier by reflecting light instead of absorbing it. If you want to refresh your walls for fall, use warm, light hues. Do the same for fabrics on items like decorative pillows, rugs and blankets. If you love dark colors, try incorporating them just as accents to keep the overall atmosphere sunny and inviting.

 

It may seem obvious, but clean windows make a ton of difference in the amount of light that comes into a room. Dust, grime and smudges can reduce the clarity and brightness of your windows (not to mention the fact that it doesn’t look good), so even though some housekeepers “don’t do windows,” you should if you want to bump up the sunlight factor. Also, keep clutter off windowsills to prevent shadows and maximize your natural window light.

 

As trees and plants grow throughout the summer, they can start to block natural light from entering your home. Though the leaves may eventually fall off, you’ll still want to trim back overgrown branches obstructing your windows. This not only maximizes your light but gives you a head start on spring maintenance and creates the best view of the beautiful autumn scenery outside.

 

If you have a bigger budget, consider adding windows, skylights or solar tubes in the darker areas of your home. Skylights are great in rooms like bathrooms or hallways that have limited space for windows. Solar tubes (small, cylindrical pipes that reflect light in from your roof) are a more compact, budget-friendly alternative to skylights. They’re also energy-efficient and can be installed in almost any room.

 

When it comes to maximizing your natural light for fall, keep it simple: Make small, thoughtful changes that showcase autumn’s beauty while keeping your space sunny and welcoming. By using these decorating tips, you can create a home that’s filled with light and warmth, taking full advantage of one of our most beautiful seasons in the Midwest.