Colour temperature is as important to the aesthetic and functionality of a room as the furniture, finishes and decoration of that space, and choosing the right colour temperature for your downlight or strip lighting is the key to a successful design that you will enjoy living or working in for years to come.
Colour temperature is measured in Kelvin (K) – the lower the number, the warmer the light appears, while a higher Kelvin will appear cooler. In lighting, colour temperatures range from 2700-3000K (warm) to 4000-5300K (daylight) and up to 6500K (blue light). Generally, warmer tones of 2700-3000K are used for spaces that require an inviting and intimate atmosphere such as in residential homes and in hospitality. Cooler tones of 4000K and higher are utilized in spaces that need more functional lighting in order to remain focused and productive or to facilitate a particular task. In a residence this might be for make-up/shaving mirrors and in the
garage for example. In offices it is used to promote better focus and concentration by reducing any potential eye strain or fatigue, and in commercial and retail settings to better highlight products and services and create a highly functional environment.
The cooler colour temperatures promote concentration and wakefulness, so they are best suited to work and task spaces, whereas for home warmer tones are more appropriate for allowing you to rest, relax, and are more flattering to skin tone.
In order to determine the right colour temperature that best suits the design, we need to consider the application of the project or space, the interior finishes and fittings and the personal preferences of the client. Contact our experienced lighting design consultants to discuss further, and we can help you to select the best colour temperature for your home or project.
