Landlords told to see the light

Landlords have been told they can transform their properties simply by using the power of light.

With the cost of expensive redecoration potentially outstripping the potential returns for landlords on attracting tenants and good rental rates, lighting is one way which can yield some reward.

Dean Keyworth, former chairman of the British Interior Design Association (BIDA), explained: "The main thing in any room is the different levels of light - a mixture of lamps on low tables, wall lights and ceiling lights.

"By having the different levels of light you can make a small space seem bigger because you can highlight with wall lights, for example.

"There are wall washers, where the light comes out of the bottom and the top, which can make the room seem taller if you have a low ceiling.

"If you do have a low ceiling do not have anything hanging - a chandelier or anything - because it will just make it feel even lower. Use downlighting, which does not highlight the height of the ceiling."

Renovation work and home improvements have become popular with Britons, particularly as the work done on property can add value to their home, as well as improve the look of a house.

Published 11th March, 2008

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