We all know that sunlight has a positive effect on us, but did you know that LED lighting can also affect your well-being?
LED lighting can emit blue light waves that produce serotonin which keeps us focused and alert. When it does not emit blue waves, it allows our brain to produce melatonin which keeps us relaxed and prepares us for a well-rested sleep.
Colour temperatures below 4000K provide warm whites, while colour temperatures above 4000K create cool whites. Also, consider the brightness of the LED product which will be determined by lumens and not watts. Now that we know the basics, here is our recommendation on how to make your house into a home with the power of LED lighting.
Bathrooms
Our bathroom is usually the first place we go to when we wake up. Using bright lights with a high lumen output will ensure we are safe while shaving or applying our makeup. It is also a task-filled area therefore, cooler colour temperatures are recommended.
Recommended Colour Temperature: 6000K.
Pro tip: Avoid placing lights that point directly downwards at the mirror as these cast shadows. Instead, place pendants on either side of mirrors for a more balanced appearance.
Bedrooms
We recommend a warmer colour temperature for your bedroom since it is the most intimate and safest place we have. Having a dimmable option is also a great option to have when trying to unwind after a long day.
Recommended colour temperature: 3000K-4000K.
Pro Tip: Having a cool/neutral colour temperature desk lamp (5000K-6000K) creates a higher contrast with the pages when reading a book. It can assist in the reduction of eye strain.
Living rooms
Your living room is a common room and is shared with family members as well as guests. Whether you are watching TV or socializing, it is important to combine light sources to adapt to whatever job you may need it for. Avoiding cooler whites can suggest a more relaxed environment since blue light assists with high tasks activities. Adding spotlight lamps on walls or ceilings is a great way to eliminate unwanted shadows and creating visual interest.
Recommended colour temperature: 3000K-4000K
Pro Tip: Placing LED Strips behind your TV screen reduces unwanted glare and can help reduce eye strain.
Dining Rooms
When having a meal with your family, lighting should never be overly bright, neither should it be excessively dim so that we doze off. Whether it is a late brunch or early dinner, a dimmable overhead fixture allows for the perfect brightness at any time of the day. We recommend choosing a neutral tone for the dining room to create a balance. Consider LED lighting for beautiful chandelier fixtures in a dining room. LED chandelier bulbs offer impressive colour and light output.
Recommended colour temperature: 3000-4000K.
Kitchens
Kitchens are high task areas. It is important to be alert when cooking or prepping for your meal so those blue light-emitting bulbs will help keep us awake. High work areas such as kitchen counters should have maximum illumination. Layering LED Lighting is a great way to bring out the best in your home. Choosing a ceiling fixture or recessed LED lighting can evenly distribute light all around the room to create great ambient lighting.
Recommended Colour Temperature: 4000K-6000K.
Pro Tip: LED Strip lights or downlighters can showcase dishes and silverware in open shelves or glass-front cabinets.
