When you’re searching for a new apartment in Nigeria, you probably think about rent, water supply, security, and maybe how close it is to your child’s school.
But here’s something most parents never consider: how much natural light comes into your home.
Why is that important?
According to a study by the Heschong Mahone Group, students who had more natural light in their classrooms scored up to 25% higher on standardized tests than those in darker rooms.
Yes. Just lighting made that big of a difference.
Let’s break it down.
The Science: Why natural light improves learning
Researchers found that children in classrooms with big windows and good daylight performed much better in reading and math.
Their brains were more alert
Their attention span was longer
They got tired less quickly
It’s not just about seeing clearly. Sunlight affects how our brains function. It helps regulate sleep-wake cycles, improves mood, and increases focus. Children exposed to enough daylight produce more serotonin and melatonin, two hormones that support healthy sleep, calmness, and focus.
Now imagine your child doing homework or reading JAMB past questions in a poorly lit room with no ventilation. Their brain has to work twice as hard just to stay awake and process information.
Why this matters for Nigerian homes
Most Nigerian homes are not designed with lighting in mind. Some apartments have small or wrongly positioned windows. Some landlords block windows with external structures. And in estates or tenement buildings, it’s common to find rooms with only one tiny window, especially in boys’ quarters or face-me-I-face-you layouts.
NEPA is unreliable. So when the room is dark, many families rely on white fluorescent bulbs, which can be harsh and mentally draining.
As a new mom, here’s what to look for
If you’re looking for a new apartment and you care about your child’s learning and mental development, check the natural lighting before signing that rent agreement.
Here’s how to check for good lighting:
- Visit in the Morning or Afternoon: See how much daylight enters the room without switching on any light.
- Check Window Placement: Are there windows on two sides of the room? That’s ideal for cross-lighting.
- Avoid Obstructions: Make sure the windows aren’t blocked by neighbouring walls or extensions.
- Pick a South or East-facing Room: These sides usually get the most steady daylight in Nigeria.
- Check for Glass Doors or Light-Coloured Walls: These help reflect and spread light more evenly.
- Ask About Wall Paint: Light-coloured paint like white, cream or soft grey makes the room brighter, even with small windows.
Bonus tips for moms already living in dark rooms
If you already live in a home with poor lighting, don’t panic. Here are some simple design tips to improve things:
- Use mirrors to bounce natural light into the room
- Choose sheer curtains instead of heavy drapes
- Keep furniture away from the window area
- Paint at least one wall white or cream to reflect more light
- Create your child’s reading or play area next to the window
Whether you live in Abuja, Port Harcourt, or Lagos, one thing is true: your home design affects your child’s brain more than you realise.
If more sunlight in the classroom can help children perform better in school, then more daylight at home can only help them thrive faster.
So the next time an agent shows you a room and says, “This one is big o,” smile and say, “How much natural light enters this room by 2 pm?”
Because now, you know better.
