21 Ways to Brighten Up Your Living Room

A polished coffee table like this one both reflects light and doubles the impact of the accessories atop it. Even better: Glass and metallic pieces complement any and all color schemes.

The gradual accumulation of particulates like dust and soot that makes a space look subtly dingy doesn't catch the eye at first, but is it noticeable when you rearrange framed art and discover a pale silhouette on the surface beneath it. Head off the heartbreak of learning your walls are grimy by making a point of dusting and washing them once a year.

The key to enjoying the effect of a pale area rug like this one is, of course, being able to see it in the first place. Corralling clutter and relocating or getting rid of extraneous furniture is important in all spaces, but it's especially crucial in smaller and darker spaces.

Pursuing a sense of lightness doesn't have to mean getting rid of handsome, dark tones like the wood on the ceiling and above the hearth in this historic home. It does mean paring those heavier pieces back to their most essential elements. In this case, a simple shelf adorns the fireplace beautifully.