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The Influence of Light Colour Temperature on User Perception of Interior Spaces

Abstract

Light colour temperature is an important component of interior environmental design because it influences how occupants perceive, experience, and respond to indoor spaces. The appearance of artificial light can range from warm to cool tones, with each colour temperature creating different visual and psychological impressions. Differences in colour temperature may affect perceptions of spaciousness, comfort, warmth, cleanliness, relaxation, and activity within interior environments. Understanding these effects is therefore important for creating interior spaces that respond appropriately to their intended functions and users. This study examines the influence of light colour temperature on user perception of interior spaces, focusing on how variations in warm, neutral, and cool lighting affect occupants' visual and psychological responses. It considers how users perceive the character and atmosphere of spaces under different lighting conditions. The study also explores the relationship between colour temperature and perceived qualities such as comfort, brightness, spaciousness, privacy, and functionality. Particular attention is given to the interaction between colour temperature and spatial function. Warm lighting may contribute to perceptions of intimacy, relaxation, and visual warmth, while cooler lighting may create impressions of alertness, clarity, and brightness. Neutral lighting may provide a balanced visual environment suitable for activities requiring accurate perception of colours and details. The study considers how these differences influence user responses in spaces such as living rooms, bedrooms, offices, educational environments, hospitality spaces, and commercial interiors. The study further examines how light colour temperature interacts with interior materials, surface colours, textures, furniture, and natural daylight. The same lighting condition may produce different perceptions depending on the colours and reflective properties of surrounding surfaces. Daylight availability and the time of day may also modify users' responses to artificial lighting. These interactions highlight the importance of considering colour temperature as part of an integrated interior lighting strategy rather than as an isolated design element. User characteristics and patterns of space use are also considered in assessing lighting preferences and perceptions. Age, activity, cultural expectations, visual sensitivity, duration of occupancy, and the intended atmosphere of a space may influence how occupants respond to different colour temperatures. Appropriate lighting selection can therefore contribute to improved visual comfort and user satisfaction, while inappropriate colour temperature may create an environment that conflicts with the functional or emotional requirements of a space. The study aims to establish how different light colour temperatures influence user perception of interior spaces and to identify lighting considerations that can improve the visual and experiential quality of indoor environments. Its findings are expected to assist architects, interior designers, lighting professionals, and building developers in selecting appropriate colour temperatures for different spatial functions. Integrating user perception into lighting design can contribute to more comfortable, functional, visually appealing, and responsive interior environments.

Keywords: Light colour temperature, Interior spaces, User perception, Lighting design, Visual comfort, Warm lighting, Cool lighting, Neutral lighting, Interior environment, Spatial experience, Psychological response, Artificial lighting, Interior architecture, User satisfaction.