Have you got a small room or area that you would like to utilise as a working space, or a living space, that doesn’t have a window bringing in any natural light?

Well, create the feeling and illusion of a window – a ‘faux’ or fake window – by attaching an interestingly shaped window frame to an existing wall, leaving a wide enough gap behind it to attach LED strip lighting. You can also use an electric fitting, for a strip globe, which you place onto the wall behind the window frame you have chosen. By attaching LED strip lighting behind the window, or by inserting a proper strip light behind the window, this will shine ‘natural light’ into the room or space.

Finding the Right Frame

Scour those antique shops or second hand building suppliers, for an interesting stained glass window, or an interestingly sized or shaped window to add a ‘wow’ factor to the room or space.

You can sand the wooden surround and varnish it, if you want a natural wood look, or else, you can paint it any colour to match your décor. Paint the frame a dark colour should the colour of the wall behind it be light, or a lighter colour should there be a darker colour on the wall, to create a strong contrast. Gold or metallic spray paints could also be an option; there are many different metallics to choose from, from your local hardware store.

Glass Style Selection

You can place frosted glass, leaded light, or stained glass in the window panes; even wallpaper or an outdoor scene (perhaps a photo you have taken and had enlarged) can be used. I have used this to great effect on a bare bathroom wall which lacked enough natural light, and in a small area beneath a staircase, where I put a desk and chair. Another idea is to hang sheer curtains, if appropriate for the space, to simulate soft natural light pouring into the room.

Stuck In-between: Share Light!

Should you have two rooms adjacent to each other, one perhaps lacking insufficient light – break a hole in the existing brickwork between the two rooms, and make a window the size/shape of the window frame you want to place in it. This can be decorative sand-blasted window for privacy or a decorative window which allows the two rooms to share light, and which also creates the feeling of having an extra window in each space.

Have you tried this? Share your experience in the comments below!