Warm or Cold Lighting, What’s the Best Option?
The need to light each space with a purpose is becoming increasingly important, especially as we are constantly subjected to artificial light daily.
Naturally, and as part of the circadian rhythm, human beings react differently depending on the color temperature they are exposed to, so it is essential to understand the psychology behind lighting and the effect it has on a space and our behavior as human beings.
Find out what LED color temperature is and how it influences our perception of a given space.
WHAT IS LED COLOUR TEMPERATURE?
Essentially, LED colour temperature refers to the hue of the light emitted by a lamp or any other lighting source. As the color temperature increases on the Kelvin (K) scale, the light tends to acquire bluer tones. On the other hand, lower temperatures result in a more yellowish tone.
Depending on the atmosphere you want to create, different color temperatures must be applied to satisfy not only the purpose of the space but also the biological needs of the human being. As the human body is governed by the circadian cycle, also known as the “biological rhythm”, the choice of the ideal color temperature is therefore fundamental.
As a rule, these are divided into three groups: warm light, neutral light and cool light.
WARM LED LIGHT
Ideally, LED warm light should be used in spaces where we want the atmosphere to be cozy, comforting and relaxing, such as a living room or bedroom.
As a general rule, this type of light is below 3500 K and is distinguished by its yellowish-white color that provides a comforting and relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for lighting living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms.
This level of colour temperature has a great influence on mood, and as such is often used in spaces where the aim is to relax and create a comforting atmosphere. However, it can also have the opposite effect on the human being when waking up, as it can simulate the light of dawn, contributing to a better awakening.
And what is the ideal color temperature for corporate spaces and other work environments?
LED COOL LIGHT
The recommended color temperature for office and corporate environments is between 4500K and 5500K, where the level of productivity and concentration should be higher, as well as the level of alertness.
Industrial spaces and task-oriented environments such as offices, garages, and hospital spaces, among others, should have a color temperature between the parameters indicated above.
This does not mean that warm color temperatures cannot be used in business environments, the contrary.
In communal and leisure spaces, more comfortable lighting should be used, and if possible with natural light, so that there is a clear distinction between work and leisure space.
LED COOL LIGHT
The recommended color temperature for office and corporate environments is between 4500K and 5500K, where the level of productivity and concentration should be higher, as well as the level of alertness.
Industrial spaces and task-oriented environments such as offices, garages, and hospital spaces, among others, should have a color temperature between the parameters indicated above.
This does not mean that warm color temperatures cannot be used in business environments, the contrary.
In communal and leisure spaces, more comfortable lighting should be used, and if possible with natural light, so that there is a clear distinction between work and leisure space.
NEUTRAL LED LIGHT
In spaces that require the most realistic representation of colors, such as museums and art galleries or textile factories, the best color temperature is neutral LED light.
In addition, this color temperature is also ideal for environments that require moderate attention, such as co-working environments, kitchens and even bathrooms.
The use of natural light (or its representation) in our daily lives offers several significant benefits. As well as providing a more balanced and realistic illumination, natural light:
- Contributes to mood improvement and increases productivity;
- Regulates the circadian cycle;
- Promotes sustainability.
In fact, regular exposure to natural light is associated with better sleep quality and eye health. By replicating the characteristics of sunlight, natural light creates more pleasant and healthier environments, making it the preferred option whenever possible to promote well-being and comfort in our daily lives.
The selection of a good color temperature, together with the functionality and design of the piece, are essential aspects for the space to be perceived in the best possible way by human beings.
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