Lighting the Way - How Colour Temperature Shapes your Mood

Have you ever noticed how a clear sunny day can instantly boost your energy and mood, while dim lighting leaves you feeling drowsy? Interior lighting has a profound effect on our emotions and overall well-being. From enhancing productivity to setting the right tone for relaxation, the way we illuminate our homes can significantly impact our mood. The secret behind these nuances lies in the colour temperature of the light.

The progression of LED lighting technologies has expanded the possibilities of light colour. Colour temperature is measured using Kelvin degrees (K) as a method to describe the warmth or coolness of a lightsource. Spanning from inviting and warm 2700K to the crisp daylight-like 6500K, colour temperature plays an important role in shaping our experiences. 

Research into light therapy has shown us that light hues have the power to influence our moods, heart rates and circadian rhythms. Our biological reaction to varying light intensities results in the release of hormones. The presence of a high, cooler colour temperature triggers the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects our mood and energy levels. This phenomenon resembles the natural effect of the sun during daylight hours, enhancing focus and alertness.

As the sun sets and the day winds down, the lower colour temperature triggers the release of melatonin - the hormone promoting relaxation and sleep. Tailoring the right hues of light to the appropriate times of the day can enhance alertness during active hours and facilitate winding down and relaxation in the evening.

Diving deeper, we can uncover how lighting transforms a space. In the bedroom, dimmable warm lighting creates a soothing haven, while task focussed bright lighting shines in the kitchen. The living room, with a blend of accent and indirect lighting, becomes an inviting space for social gatherings. For a productive home offce, bright and cooler lighting will enhance focus. By aligning with each room’s purpose you create an environment that elevates the experience and harnesses your body’s natural responses.