To brighten a dark room, use strategic lighting like floor lamps in corners and wall-mounted sconces for a layered effect. Choose glossy, reflective surfaces and light tones to enhance brightness — mirrors and glass work especially well. Maximize natural light by avoiding heavy curtains and bulky furniture that block windows and light sources. 

Mimicking natural light is no easy task, but there are a few tricks that can do the job. As far as light bulbs go, use warm-toned LEDs for floor and table lamps. For overhead lights, pick options with white or translucent shades to create a diffused glow. 

Decorative mirrors help brighten a room. Place them opposite any source of light you may have to distribute brightness evenly across the room. The same applies to shiny pieces of furniture and decor — although the result may be a bit more subtle. 

Another crucial element is adding light-colored wall art or decorative panels to maximize reflections across the space. As a bonus, you’ll get your walls to feel less heavy and dark. 

White is the best color to brighten a room, as it’s the one that reflects the most amount of light. However, using plain white can feel a bit too “clinical” for some people, and it degrades a lot faster than other colors. 

Instead, you can use light neutrals such as off-white, beige, or a very soft gray. These will still reflect a good amount of light without making the room too cold. Also, they pair better with modern and minimalist styles. 

If you want a cheerful touch while thinking about how to brighten a dark room, you could also go for pastel tones. Pale blues, soft greens, and other blush tones can add a noticeable hint of color without darkening up the room. 

In any case, try to avoid mixing too many colors between wall paint, furniture, and decor. Simple color schemes help prevent visual clutter, making the space feel more open and inviting to everyone.