On many occasions, I have noticed that people are divided into two groups: those who prefer cold light and those who prefer warm light. Uncertainty then arises as to which of the two is best suited for use at home. In this article, from my perspective, I will explain what I think is the best option.
As an interior designer and architect, I consider lighting to be one of the most important tools we have to give life and personality to each space we design. The tone and layout of the lighting will affect both the design and how it feels.
Where to use cold light?
Where to put warm light?
Can they be combined?
How do I know what tone it is when I go to buy?
Conclusion
The moment we move and live in a new house or apartment, the serious mistake is made to go and buy, for example, 5 lights of the same color, and this is not the most accurate. When asked what shade is suitable to use in the home, I answer that both are correct, but depending on what space in the house and what activity is performed there, we will use one or the other.
1. So where should we put neutral light?
In the kitchen and bathrooms, I always recommend placing a neutral light (which is a shade more white than warm) to provide bright and crisp lighting, improve visibility and create a sense of cleanliness. They are spaces where tasks are carried out that require greater lighting.
Another environment where this shade of light can be very functional is if we have a study or work space, where obviously we will need not to force our eyes to perform the tasks.
2. And the warm light?
From my point of view, the bedrooms are environments of the house where we should have exclusively warm light, because it is a resting space where we need to be relaxed, and that is precisely what this shade of light gives us: feeling of relaxation and comfort.
On the other hand, personally, I like to design the reception spaces with this shade of light. When we get home, we find this cozy feeling that provides warm light, instead of the feeling of "alert" that usually generates cold light. I think having a feeling of "cozy space" when entering is very wise.
3. Can they be combined?
Of course we do, and we must, since we have spaces such as the dining room, where various activities are held according to the time of day. This is where we need versatility in light tones so that the space is flexible and adapts to our needs. One of the ways in which I put this into practice is to propose the placement of general lighting in warm white (not white) tone and generate warm lighting spotlights in strategic points of space with the use of floor lamps, table lamps, candles, etc., for when we want to generate a quieter and more relaxed space.
There is also the option to use the same light source which can be adjusted its tonality with command either remote control or by control switch. Philips, for example, offers a lot of variety in its products.
Ikea is another cheaper option that offers lighting and have a smart product that regulates the intensity by remote control and is for sale with a super affordable price.
4. How do I know when I will buy it?
Now, we’ve already talked about cool, warm, neutral tones and where to use each one. But what are these tones on the market?
The boxes of light bulbs usually say, for the most part, "cold" or "warm" tone, but within these groups there are subtitles and depending on which one you want, it will be the number you should look for in the box.
The shade of light is measured in degrees Kelvin, and in the box you will see it with the letter K.
From 1000 K to 3000 K is warm light: Used for environments such as income, bedrooms, dining room.
From 4000 K to 6000 K is neutral light: For kitchen use, bathrooms, workspaces.
From 7000 K to 10000 K is white light: I do not recommend its use for homes.
Finally and to finish, in case of "cold light or warm light", we must know that both are correct and we must choose the tone according to the activity that takes place in the environment and the feeling that we want to experience inhabiting it. We can use cold or warm, but also combine them for greater flexibility in the use of space.