I run the basement with my quilting! Hahaha! With one or two small windows, I chose to use two 4' 'daylight' bulbs fluorescent units. Helps tremendously. IF I turn on one 'soft white' bulb just for a few seconds to see something in the dark, I can really see the ugly difference.
My walls are off white fabric and I have a mirror with a dresser...but may add more now that several of you have mentioned the way mirrors reflect light.
Nan - IN
e.t.a - consider task lights in daylight bulbs. floor models and desk models are available.