Color temperature can be described as the warmth or coolness of a light source. When a piece of metal is exposed to heat the light it emits will change in colour. This colour begins as red in appearance and graduates to orange, yellow, white, and then blue-white to deeper shades of blue. We use the correlating colour temperature (in Kelvins) to describe the appearance of that light source as it relates to the appearance of the piece of metal. That is, a black body radiator in the case of LED’s.
Red-Yellow colours are considered ‘hot’ colours, whilst green-blue are considered ‘cool’ colours. Ironically, cool colours are those with high higher Kelvin temperatures (3600-5500 K) and the hot colours lie on the lower end of the spectrum (2700-3000 K). Most indoor places should ideally have a recommended colour temperature of 2700-3600 k.
Another way of classification would be to divide colour temperatures into 3 different types:
- Extra warm white: Which corresponds to a 2700K LED. It will still appear slightly white-orange in appearance. This is sometimes called ‘soft white’ by people in the LED business. Used in Lounges, Living rooms and bedrooms.
- Warm white: Corresponding to a 3000K LED. This is more lucid and clearer in appearance but still quite warm. This is by far the most prominent and popular LED that is used overall. Used in Kitchens, conservatories and bathrooms.
- Cool white: 4000K which is much clearer in appearance and is frequently used in commercial locations. It’s about 5% brighter than warm white and more energy efficient. It can make a room feel cold and clinical. Used in bathrooms and various medical rooms in hospitals.
Choosing the right colour temperature is important so much so that it dictates how your room will look like, along with the colour of your walls. Wisely chosen combinations will bring your room to life. Consult us if you want to know more.