Colour temperature is the parameter that most strongly shapes how an interior is perceived — and yet we still choose bulbs mainly by wattage. Here is what kelvins are and which light suits each room.
What is colour temperature?
Expressed in kelvins (K), it describes the shade of white light. The lower the value, the warmer and more yellow the light; the higher it is, the cooler and bluer. A candle is about 1900 K, a classic bulb 2700 K, and midday daylight as much as 6500 K.
Living room and bedroom: 2200–2700 K
In rest zones, choose warm light. It helps you unwind, warms up the colours of walls and furniture, and in the evening does not disturb your circadian rhythm as much as cool light does.
Kitchen and bathroom: 3000–4000 K
Wherever precision is needed — at the kitchen worktop or in front of the mirror — neutral white works best. It renders colours faithfully and does not tire the eyes during everyday tasks.
Home office: 4000 K and above
Cooler light stimulates and improves concentration, which is why it is sometimes called “work light”. It is worth pairing it with warmer mood lighting, though, so you can change the room's character after hours.
Tip: if you like variety, choose bulbs with adjustable colour temperature — or simply two lamps with different temperatures in one room.
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