How to Choose the Right Colour Temperature for Indoor Lighting
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Colour temperature describes whether white light looks warm and golden or cool and crisp. It’s measured in kelvin (K). A lower number gives light a warmer appearance. Brightness is separate, so check the lumen rating as well.
Choose a starting point for each room
- Living rooms and bedrooms: Try 2700–3000 K for a warmer feel. Use a table lamp or wall light for reading so you can keep the main lights lower in the evening.
- Kitchens: Start around 3000–3500 K for general lighting. If you want a crisper look over work surfaces, try a separate task light around 3500–4000 K.
- Home offices: Start around 3500–4000 K for a more neutral look. Position the light to reduce glare on your screen.
Check the light in your own space
Test one bulb before buying a full set. Look at it after dark and see how it affects paint, wood, and fabrics. Keep fixtures that you see together at a similar colour temperature for a consistent look. If you want to dim the lights, check that the bulb, fixture, and dimmer are compatible.
Explore indoor lighting, table lamps, and wall lights for different layers of light. Check each product’s specifications for bulb requirements and available colour temperatures.