Monsoon special: Here's how to brighten up your home without using lights

Monsoon is here! And while it brings relief from the sweltering heat, it can also bring in its wake some gloominess and dullness.

If you have been feeling tired, cranky, stressed or just not in a great mood, look inside your home and analyse the sources of natural light. It’s a proven fact that humans respond, act and feel better in a home that has plenty of natural light but also has light-inspired decor.

Even for your darkest rooms there is a way to bring in lighter finishes to play off the darker ones. Décor is one of the easiest things to uplift your mood and transform your space into a happy heaven despite the rains!

Interior stylist Jasmine Jhaveri offers ways to brighten up your home without using just the mainstream light:

Got an accent?
When dark clouds hover outside, it's natural to switch on as many lights as possible. However, that kills the ambience instead of enhancing it. Junk the strong overhead lights, use accent lights such as a floor lamp or an uplifter within your plants. Place them in different corners of the room and pair these with delicate cove lights to create a warm, inviting space.

Art Attack



Vivid art in bright hues - mixing and matching ethereal watercolours with statement oil paintings - can add a dash of light and colour. It would also create a textural space, suiting your personality. And if that's not good enough, add some 3D pieces like a sculpture, or some candles to add flair.

Switch to brighter linens
Perhaps, what might be the easiest way to achieve a bright look would be to opt for bright linens. Dress up your space with bright colours, you won't regret it. Do a mix of prints and solids, and voila! You'll have a space that will cheer you up right when you walk in!



Accessories is key
Cheery plants, flowers, coffee-table books - if these don't liven up your space, nothing can! Add some colour with a mix of ceramic and stone vases. Jazz your space up with textural cushions. And you will be the talk of the town.