Light Temperature and How it Affects Your Wellbeing
Understanding Light Temperature
Light temperature is a measure of the warmth or coolness of the light emitted by a bulb or source of light. It is measured in Kelvins (K) and can range from warm, yellowish light (around 2,700K for interior lighting) to cool, bluish light (up to 6,500K for interiors).
How Light Temperature Affects You
The light temperature in your environment can have a significant impact on your mood, productivity, and overall well-being.
Warm light (around 2,700K) is like candle light and creates a cozy, relaxing atmosphere and is perfect for winding down at night. Cool light (around 6,500K) is similar to daylight. It is energizing and helps to increase focus and productivity, making it ideal for task-oriented activities.
Light Temperature and Sleep
The light temperature in your bedroom can have a big impact on your sleep quality. Exposure to bright, cool light (such as that emitted by electronic devices) before bed can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.
To promote restful sleep, it is recommended to use warm, dim lighting in the bedroom and avoid using electronic devices for at least an hour before bedtime.
Light Temperature in Bathrooms
Creating a relaxing bathtub atmosphere, showering and getting ready for work in the morning, or going out at night - each scenario requires a different lighting scene.
A single light over sinks, showers, and toilets, is no longer sufficient. Mixing lighting colours and installing light switch settings may be the best option for bathrooms where many tasks are performed.
Choosing the Right Light Temperature for Your Space
There is no need to limit your lighting scheme to one temperature for the entire home, or even one room. It is better to mix colour temperatures to suit the purpose of each space, but it is important to do so carefully.
First consider the activities that will take place in the room, then establish an ambient light to set the mood and to define the perimeter of the space, and then choose the accent lighting.
Light temperature is an important factor to consider when designing your lighting scheme. By choosing the right light temperature for each room and activity, you can enhance your mood, improve your productivity, and get a better night's sleep.
If you need expert advise on your interior lighting scheme, contact us today at info@alishawhitedesign.com or have a look at our lighting design service, designed for any size project.
