Sunny rooms tricky to illuminate

The other day I posted about sunny rooms. What to call them specifically is a matter of definition. But no need to blather on about that again. Let’s just conclude that they usually involve a lot of glass. Walls as well as ceiling. This make sunny rooms tricky to illuminate.

Sunny rooms tricky to illuminate - GardenRoomStyle

I have a glazed balcony. They are common in northern Europe, weather has something to do with that. Having a glazed balcony protects from elements such as wind, snow and rain. Not necessarily cold though. But it extends the warmish season. The glazed balcony was not there when I moved into my apartment, getting it done was one of the best things I’ve done. It was like adding an extra room. Just love it. But how to illuminate?

Chandelier Series 6660 - Met Auditorium 6660-L-16 - Sunny rooms tricky to illuminate - GardenRoomStyle

Chandelier Series 6660 – Met Auditorium 6660-L-16

The balcony fortunately had an outdoor power point to start with. So thanks to help from extension leads I have dimmable normal (indoor) light sources out there. As it’s impossible to fit lights in the ceiling (apart from string lights which I’m not a big fan of) I’ve made sure they are uplights. As such the light cascades upwards to the ceiling adding height.

Large Rattan Palm Tree Floor Light, with Three Bulbs in the Coconuts - 1st dibs - Sunny room tricky to illuminate - GardenRoomStyle

Large Rattan Palm Tree Floor Light, with Three Bulbs in the Coconuts – 1st dibs

Adding height in a conservatory (and the like) is an issue. If of course you don’t have a very strong supportive glass ceiling which enables that. If you happen to, I would add a gloriously sexy chandelier, ideally vintage 1960/70s style. Alternatively, an orangery usually allows space for downlighting. I would definitely go for that, using smart technology.

Banana leaf floor lamp - Sunny rooms tricky to illuminate - GardenRoomStyle

Banana leaf floor lamp.

Another option for adding height is using tall floor lamps. Enclosed are some that I think add a suitable vibe. Again, make sure there’s is safe and plentiful power supply. Always go for LED light sources, they will save you pennies. As far as general (eye level) lighting is concerned, well, I’ll leave those solutions to you.