As the days grow shorter and the evenings get cozier, it’s only natural to reach for the light switch a little more often. But just because the lights are on longer doesn’t mean your energy bills have to spike like a vampire at sunrise.
At BrightBuilt Home, we think about lighting not just as a design feature—but as part of the bigger energy puzzle. The way your home is lit can impact everything from your mood to your utility bills. So as we head into the darker months, here are a few ways to brighten your home without burning through your budget.
One of the most powerful tools in our design toolkit is something the sun gives us for free: natural light.
Our homes are designed to maximize daylight with strategic window placement, open layouts, and well-oriented glazing. That means you can rely less on artificial light during the day—yes, even in a Maine (or Massachusetts, or Vermont…) winter.
Tip: Keep your windows clean, and your shades open during daylight hours. North-facing rooms still get great diffuse light, and south-facing windows are your sunshine superstars.
This spooky season, here’s something actually scary: phantom loads.
These are devices that suck energy even when they’re not in use—like chargers, printers, and anything with a “standby” light.
Tip: Use smart power strips or timers to cut off electricity to non-essential devices when you’re not using them. Your wallet will thank you—and so will the planet.
LEDs use up to 90% less energy than traditional bulbs, and they last a whole lot longer. Plus, today’s LEDs come in a wide range of color temperatures—so you can create that warm, cozy glow without resorting to flickering tea lights.
Tip: For a soft autumn ambiance, look for LED bulbs with a 2700K–3000K color temperature. Think warm, not washed out.
Pairing your LEDs with smart switches, timers, or motion sensors can reduce unnecessary usage and make your home feel more intuitive. (Bonus: no more “Did I leave the light on?” anxiety.)
Many BrightBuilt clients choose to integrate lighting controls into their home’s broader smart systems—so lights can dim with sunset, turn off when rooms are empty, or come on automatically as you arrive home.
At BrightBuilt, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all lighting. That’s why, as part of your design journey, you’ll receive a Lighting Survey—a tool we use to understand how you live, move, and relax throughout the day.
Do you want task lighting for late-night baking sessions? A softly lit hallway for early risers? Or just dimmers wherever the vibe matters? This is where we gather those details.
The Lighting Survey typically arrives during the Finishes Phase, just ahead of the final design iteration that transitions into Construction. Your responses help us fine-tune your lighting layout and fixture selections—ensuring your home doesn’t just look good, it lives beautifully.
In every BrightBuilt Home, lighting is considered from day one. We don’t just think about where the fixtures go—we think about how light moves through a space, how it interacts with materials, and how it supports your daily rhythms.
From layered lighting schemes (ambient, task, accent) to fixture selections that balance form and function, our homes are designed to feel just right—even after the sun goes down.
Shorter days can take a toll. BrightBuilt homes help offset that seasonal slump by keeping indoor air fresh (thanks, ERVs!) and maximizing natural light to support your circadian rhythm. It’s one of those behind-the-scenes benefits that makes a big difference, especially this time of year.
This fall, let your home glow smarter—not harder.
Because at BrightBuilt, we believe good design isn’t just about what you see—it’s about how you feel living in it.
BrightBuilt Home
Thoughtfully designed. Sustainably minded. Clearly guided.
