Why & How Artificial Lighting in Design affect Health & Wellbeing…

31 Jan

Written By A Scog

Lighting in Interior Design: Enhancing Spaces While Prioritising Health

Lighting is often overlooked in interior design despite its ability to transform spaces, highlight artwork, and create immersive sensory experiences. Beyond aesthetics, lighting profoundly affects human health and well-being, making its physiological impacts a critical consideration in design (Münch et al., 2020).

What is Light?

Light is electromagnetic radiation, a form of energy that travels in waves with varying amplitudes, wavelengths, and frequencies. Visible light, the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum detectable by the human eye, ranges from 380 to 780 nanometres. Light is essential for vision and colour perception, with natural sunlight providing a full spectrum of colours that support physiological and psychological well-being (Spitschan, 2019).

Health Concerns of LED Lighting

Modern lighting, especially LEDs, has significantly improved energy efficiency and productivity by extending functional hours. However, LEDs also present unique health concerns due to their spectral composition and operational characteristics.

Blue Light and Circadian Rhythm

LEDs predominantly emit blue wavelengths, which are beneficial during the day for alertness but can be disruptive at night. Blue light suppresses melatonin production, disrupting the circadian rhythm, which can lead to sleep disturbances, fatigue, and long-term health problems such as metabolic disorders (West et al., 2022). Unlike natural light, LEDs lack near-infrared frequencies that promote cellular repair and regeneration, increasing the potential for inflammation and oxidative stress (Phillips et al., 2019).

Flicker and Its Effects

LED flicker, caused by rapid variations in brightness, is another significant issue. Although often imperceptible, flicker can negatively impact sensitive individuals, including children, people with autism, and those prone to migraines or vertigo. Studies have linked flicker at frequencies below 200 Hz to eye strain, headaches, fatigue, and even seizures in extreme cases (Rohde & Basarir, 2020).

How to Specify Healthier LED Lighting

To mitigate the health risks associated with LED lighting, the following measures are recommended:

Full-spectrum LEDs: Opt for LEDs with a Colour Rendering Index (CRI) of 95 or higher to ensure a balanced spectrum that includes red and infrared frequencies.
Minimise flicker: Select LEDs with a flicker rate below 1% to avoid physiological disturbances.
Transformer placement: Use traditional transformers rather than SMPS drivers and position them away from bedrooms and frequently occupied spaces to reduce magnetic field exposure.

Common Design Trends to Avoid

To prioritise health in lighting design:

Avoid LED strip lights behind headboards: Transformers near sleeping areas can emit high magnetic fields.
Refrain from pendant lights above beds: Even when switched off, these lights may emit electromagnetic fields that disrupt rest.
Opt for standard switches: Avoid dimmers and automated systems, as they generate dirty electricity and magnetic fields.

Healthy Home Expert - Final Thoughts…

Lighting is a powerful tool in interior design, capable of enhancing both aesthetics and well-being. By integrating natural light, full-spectrum LEDs, and careful placement, designers can create spaces that support health and harmony. Prioritising health-conscious lighting ensures that interiors not only illuminate but also nurture their occupants.

References

Münch, M., Wright, K. P., & Cajochen, C. (2020). Effects of light on human circadian rhythms, sleep and mood. Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences, 30, 80–86. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cobeha.2019.12.001

Phillips, A. J. K., Vidafar, P., & Burns, A. C. (2019). Light and health: The role of natural and artificial light. Current Biology, 29(11), R401–R407. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2019.03.043

Rohde, M., & Basarir, B. (2020). The effects of light flicker on human health: A comprehensive review. Journal of Environmental Health Science and Engineering, 18, 1315–1330. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40201-020-00526-z

Spitschan, M. (2019). Light, vision, and non-visual effects of light. British Journal of Ophthalmology, 103(8), 1127–1131. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjophthalmol-2018-313504

West, K. E., Jablonski, M. R., & Brainard, G. C. (2022). Blue light and health: Understanding its role in circadian rhythms and beyond. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 132, 556–572. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.11.011