Lighting

How people respond to different light exposure within interior design.

Colours and light subconsciously effects peoples mood and behavior in an environment. It's interesting how much light can change an atmosphere dramatically and change our perspectives on a space.

The most basic observation is that brightly lit rooms (around 500 lux up) usually make people feel more energised, more likely to be awake and active, maybe concentrate more or be happier, whereas dimly lit rooms (around 300 lux or below) create a more relaxing space and people tend to feel sleepier/relaxed because of this.

Infact when peoples behaviour was tested in different lighting it was found that those who were in bright rooms, on average could solve creative problems easier and were more cheerful, those in dark rooms evaluated others highly compared to when in bright light.

Direct light & Indirect light

There are two types of lighting used in interior design; direct light which is when a bulbs light is directed towards a specific surface and shines on that area like most overhead lights, and indirect light, when light is diffused or reflects on other surfaces before reaching where its needed, such as wall lights or light shades blocking the direct light.

Both types used in the same space is a good normally balance and you can get the advantages of both. Direct light fills the room with more light, and can show things clearly when good sight is needed for an activity but too much light could hurt your eyes and not feel good to be in for too long. Indirect light is less harsh to look at and can be decorative in a room but it may leave some dark corners in a room if it was the only thing used.

Depending on a rooms needs, lighting should be adjusted. spotlights are used when something in particular needs to be seen clearly, or if that area needs to be an energising space, lighting like this could also be what divides the room into areas.

Colour of light

It's not always noticed by our eyes, especially on a day to day basis, but every lightbulb has varying degrees of warm to cool colour of light it produces, and this also can affect an indoor environment and influence behaviours. The 'colour temperature' of light is measured in Kelvin, the higher the number, the more cool/white/blue the light will be. an average lightbulb is around 3,00 Kelvin and considered a fairly warm colour light.

Similar to brightness, warm light is considered more relaxing and cool light usually makes people feel alert.

Although, when there is a lot of bright but warm light, people are likely to be aware of their surroundings, more active and collaborate with others easier, and then where there's low but cool light, it usually results in people thinking to ourselves or working on mental tasks and less likely to feel stressed.