Natural light is the most important thing to consider for a family home, according to a recent survey.

The poll of 25 to 44 year olds, conducted via Google Surveys on behalf of aluminium manufacturer Origin, asked what people see as fundamental features for comfortable living. The research showed that more than a quarter of respondents (26.4 percent) placed natural light as their top consideration, with just less than one in five (19.8 percent) citing a large safe garden. Neil Ginger, the company's founder, says light in the home creates a feeling of space and freedom:

"These aspects are important when bringing up young children. As more and more people choose to renovate their homes rather than move, the decision to create areas where more light can enter the home is becoming ever more popular and increasingly important to homeowners."

Age played a significant part in how the votes were cast, with 29 percent of older respondents (35–44) placing natural light at the top, compared with 23.9 percent of those aged 25 to 34. The younger audience seemed split on what they found most important, with 22.4 percent claiming garden size was the crucial factor. The 35-to-44 group showed a clearer split, with just 17 percent voting for a garden as their number one consideration. The top 7 'must haves' for homes are as follows: 1. Natural light within the rooms (26.4 percent) 2. A large safe garden (19.8 percent) 3. Open plan kitchen/diner (16.2 percent) 4. Downstairs toilet (15.8 percent) 5. A separate lounge (12.4 percent) 6. Easy access to the garden from inside (7.2 percent) 7. Other (2.2 percent)