Color temperature: choosing the right one for your lighting

Lighting temperature is a key criterion in interior lighting design. It defines the color of light emitted by a light source, such as a light bulb , and directly influences the ambiance of a room. In this article, we'll explore the different color temperatures and give you practical tips on how to choose the right color temperature for each space.

What is color temperature?

Light temperature is measured in degrees Kelvin (K) and has a strong impact on the atmosphere of a space. It varies between three main categories:

• Warm lights (below 3000K) have yellow or orange hues that create a cozy and soothing atmosphere, ideal for living rooms and bedrooms.
• Neutral lights (between 3000K and 5000K) offer a good balance between warmth and clarity, perfect for versatile use, especially in the kitchen or dining room.
• Cool lights (above 5000K) produce a bluish tint, promoting concentration and visibility. They are suitable for offices, garages, and environments requiring intense lighting.

The different color temperatures

Choosing a light bulb color temperature depends on the desired effect and the specific needs of each room. Here's a detailed guide to the different light hues and the impact of these light sources .

Very warm white (1800K - 2700K)

This golden hue, similar to candlelight, is ideal for relaxing spaces where a warm ambiance is desired. It's particularly suitable for bedrooms and living rooms. Discover our very warm white bulbs.

Warm white (3000K)

Warm white provides pleasant, inviting lighting, perfect for a dining room or kitchen. It enhances the colors of materials and creates a welcoming atmosphere. See our E27 bulbs in warm white.

Neutral white (4000K)

Neutral white provides daylight, ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, or workspaces requiring good color rendering. Discover our selection of neutral white E14 bulbs.

Cool white (6500K)

Cool white is often used in environments that require bright, stimulating light. It's ideal for offices, garages, and workshops. Discover our cool white light bulbs.

The advantages of LED bulbs

LEDs allow you to precisely choose the bulb color temperature according to your needs. They offer low energy consumption, long lifespan, and excellent color rendering. Some are even dimmable, allowing you to adapt the lighting temperature according to the time of day.

In addition to their performance, LEDs are environmentally friendly, containing no mercury or harmful substances. Investing in LED bulbs guarantees efficient, adjustable, and long-lasting lighting.

The color rendering index (CRI): an essential criterion

CRI measures a bulb's ability to accurately reproduce the colors of objects. Expressed on a scale of 0 to 100, a color rendering index above 90 is recommended for spaces where visual accuracy is important, such as a bathroom, kitchen, or workshop.

A good CRI helps prevent dull or distorted tones, improving the perception of natural colors. Modern LED bulbs now offer excellent levels of color rendering , ensuring quality lighting suitable for every room.