When Will Days Start Getting Lighter Earlier?: A Quick Guide to Daylight Changes

Many people look forward to the turning point in the calendar when days start getting lighter earlier in the morning—a subtle signal that winter’s grip is loosening and brighter days are ahead. In the Northern Hemisphere, the shortest day of the year is marked by the winter solstice, which occurs around December 21st or 22nd. After this date, daylight hours gradually increase, but it can take several weeks before you noticeably see the sunrise happening earlier rather than just experiencing later sunsets.

Initially, after the winter solstice, most of the extra daylight is added to the evenings, so sunsets get later first. The change in sunrise lags behind due to the Earth's tilt and its elliptical orbit—a phenomenon known as the “analemma” effect. In most regions of the Northern Hemisphere, you’ll typically start to see sunrises getting earlier in early January. By mid to late January, this difference becomes more apparent, signaling the promise of spring.

As a designer, I’m always keen on making the most of the available sunlight—both for well-being and for enhancing interior spaces. If you’re eager to maximize the cheery impact of increasing daylight, consider rethinking your living spaces to better take advantage of these brighter mornings. Tools like AI interior design platforms allow you to simulate changes in natural light throughout the day, helping you plan furniture placement, color schemes, and window treatments to harness every ounce of early daylight.

Tips 1:

To embrace earlier sunrises, keep your window areas clear of heavy drapes and opt for light-reflective surfaces in your décor. This way, you’ll make the most of the gentle, growing morning light that’s about to return.

FAQ

Q: When do mornings start to noticeably get lighter after the shortest day?

A: In most of the Northern Hemisphere, mornings start getting lighter in early January, with more noticeable changes by mid to late January.

Q: What causes the delay between later sunsets and earlier sunrises?

A: This is due to the Earth’s tilt and its slightly elliptical orbit, creating the analemma effect that distributes daylight unevenly after the solstice.

Q: How can I track when my local sunrise will get earlier?

A: You can use weather apps or sunrise/sunset calculators online for your exact location to see when mornings start brightening.

Q: How can interior design help me enjoy the lighter mornings?

A: Strategically arranging furniture and using light-colored finishes can help maximize your home’s exposure to the new sunlight.

Q: Are there any tools to plan interior spaces according to daylight changes?

A: Yes, modern design platforms offer simulations of natural light, helping you create brighter and more uplifting spaces as the season progresses.