LIGHTING (CONT) .
C. Emotional Lighting our interiors can offer an emotional experience. Light can influence a range of emotions depending on the intensity, the colour temperature and the length of time that we are exposed to it.
“Warmer light and lower light levels create a soothing and relaxing ambience.” Crown Colour Services
Flashing light is linked to danger and used as a warning signal, and our bodies respond innately with fast reaction times and quick decision making. Flashing lights in a nightclub are highly stimulating and can evoke an energetic response and encourage dancing. Warmer light and lower light levels are suited to restaurants, lounges, churches andwaiting rooms. In general, lower light levels are seen as relaxing and reassuring, and this can help establish an intimate environment or create a sense of calm. Restaurants use lighting strategically. A fast food establishment uses bright lighting in order to encourage a fast turnaround time and increase the volume of customers during peak service times.
Lighting can stimulate, excite and calm but equally, some lighting conditions can result in stress, sluggishness and disorientation. Light can range from bright to dim, warm to cool and can be uniformor non-uniform. Coloured light can add another dimension. Depending on the colour, it canmake us feel warmor cool. Light can be used to define boundaries; a bright space is seen as a public space whereas an area with limited or no light, is often seen as a private space or out of bounds. Light canmake us feel drowsy or alert. High intensity blue light is beneficial for a work space such as an office, a productive environment, a learning environment or a sports centre. High levels of light are a stimulant and can increase competitiveness and aggressiveness.
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