Picture perfect: 9 ideas to maximise your home's views
Category Home ideas
Who can resist a spectacular view? Whether it's mountains, beaches, forests, or cityscapes, a beautiful backdrop truly sets the scene. From having a meal, spending a romantic evening, to simply savouring your morning cuppa, everything's better with beautiful visuals in front of you. Is your home blessed with a view? Fantastic! Here are ways to make the most of it whether you're selling your property, letting it out, or simply want to enjoy it for yourself.
1. Work wonders with windows
The bigger the window, the better the view. There are many great styles you can choose in a home redesign: bay and bow windows, panoramic windows, or floor-to-ceiling solid glass windows. Corner windows can also help you get sweeping views from every angle. And remember to wash your windows often. Warm water and vinegar are all you need for sparkling views.
2. Go with frameless glass doors
If your room opens out into a balcony or lovely porch area, the right door will help you get the most out of the scenery. Glass sliding doors or bifold doors are popular choices to flood your space in light, enlargen your space, and create a modern look. Be sure to go with reputable manufacturers and installers as nothing is worse than having a door that sticks and jolts when you open it.
3. Make your view the focal point
Your stunning vistas should be the star attraction in your decor scheme. You can do this by making your windows the focal point of the room. Arrange furniture around the window or pointing towards it. Placing a rug in front of or leading up to the window is a clever way to draw the eyes to this space. Adding simple artwork near this space can also ensure that attention stays fixed on this spot.
4. Choose the right window treatment
Generally, you'll want to avoid window treatments as this can disrupt the viewing experience. However, if you need privacy or refuge from the light, choose lightweight curtains and blinds in neutral colours. Curtains and blinds that can be drawn to the side are worthwhile options for an uninterrupted view.
5. Add in low-profile furniture
Furniture with simple silhouettes will keep the focus on your view. Choose pieces that are easy to move and low profile such as swivel chairs, ottomans, and stools. And get inspired by your view. Natural, sustainable materials work well for a forest setting while the Hamptons style of soft blues, greys, and beiges dazzles with beach surroundings.
6. Paint the walls in a neutral shade
Bright, bold shades can turn gazes away from your window. Instead, paint your room in light neutral shades such as beige, taupe, grey, cream, brown, or white. It's the same reason why art galleries choose plain shades; it allows the art (just like your view) to be enjoyed in its purest form. While you're in a painting mood, check to see if your window frame and mouldings could do with a refresh to bring them back to life.
7. Let mirrors work their magic
You can capture the beauty of outside spaces with a mirror. Positioning them across from your window amplifies your view and also helps bring in more natural light into the space. Also, take your mirror size and shape into consideration. Large mirrors do a better of showcasing your view while bevelled mirrors help you enjoy the wondrous reflection from more angles.
8. Use lighting strategically
Not just important for a beautiful space, lighting can have an impact on how well you enjoy your view. Clunky fixtures can be distracting while harsh lighting can disturb your viewing pleasure. Opt for minimalist designs and soft lighting away from your eye line. Lights with dimmers are particularly helpful to create the mood when you want to gaze out at twinkling cityscapes.
9. Consider your outside spaces
Your exterior also plays a major role. Trim or clear away large trees and shrubs that are blocking your view. If your view is of the garden, add exterior lightning that can capture its charm at night. You should also make your outdoor area or balcony as comfortable as possible for hours of contemplation. Add some wicker chairs, toss out some cushions, and throw a comfy blanket; you'll never want to leave this space!
Find a home with a view
You deserve a property with a view that brings you joy each day. Century 21 Bluff lists homes with sights of gorgeous greenbelts, manicured golf courses, shimmering sea views, and majestic city skylines. View our Durban properties for sale or properties to let, and get on the path to your dream home.
Author: Century 21 South Africa
