Color Temperature & Kelvin: Your Guide to Perfect Lighting | Beslag Design
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The perfect lighting: Learn about color temperature and Kelvin

Tips and guides

 / 2023-08-25

The perfect lighting: Learn about color temperature and Kelvin

Don't we all strive for that perfect lighting that makes our rooms or projects stand out from the ordinary? Whether it's about creating the ultimate home office for productivity or enveloping the living room in a warm and inviting atmosphere, the right color temperature and understanding of the Kelvin scale are key to achieving the perfect lighting. Let us guide you through the world of color temperatures and the Kelvin scale.

What are color temperature and Kelvin?


Think of color temperature as a description of the color tone that a light source emits. It is measured in Kelvin (K) and can range from warm, golden tones to cold, bluish hues. Let's take a look at the Kelvin scale for a better understanding. Remember, each value on the scale represents a specific color temperature and therefore a unique atmosphere.

KELVIN SCALE

2700K - Extra warm white. Often used for general lighting
3000K - Warm white. Usually standard and often used for general lighting
4000K - Neutral white
6500K - Cool white

A guide through 2700K, 3000K, and 4000K

When talking about warm light, 2700 Kelvin and 3000 Kelvin are two of the most popular choices in the Nordics. But what is the actual difference between them, and when should you choose one over the other? And when is 4000K appropriate?

2700K - Imagine a traditional light bulb, with its golden, cozy glow. This is 2700K, a rich warm white light that gives the room an inviting and relaxing atmosphere. This is the glow we often associate with coziness.

3000K - Slightly brighter than its predecessor, 3000K still offers a warm tone but with a touch of clarity. This light has a somewhat more neutral tone, meaning it is closer to a pure white color compared to 2700K.

4000K – Neutral white light that strikes a balance between warmth and clarity, making it excellent for areas requiring both relaxation and focus.

Where do these lights fit best?

Living Room – A room where we relax, read a book or watch a movie. 2700K is perfect here to create the cozy atmosphere we crave after a long day.

Kitchen – We often need slightly brighter light for cooking in the kitchen. 3000K provides the extra sharpness needed without losing the warm feel. 4000K can offer a good balance for larger kitchens.

Bedroom – A mix of both may be ideal. Use 2700K for bed lighting for a calming effect and perhaps 3000K for wardrobes or makeup mirrors.

Bathroom – A place where we prepare for the day. 3000K may be advantageous here as it provides better light for makeup or shaving, yet is still soft enough for a relaxing bath. 4000K is especially suitable for larger bathrooms.

Office or workspaces – Both 3000K and 4000K are suitable here. While 3000K can provide a warm and inviting feel, 4000K may offer just the right balance between warmth and productivity for long workdays. The slight increase in clarity can help keep you alert and focused.

Adjust lighting according to material and surface

An area that can sometimes be overlooked when choosing lighting is how the light interacts with the materials and surfaces it illuminates. Different surfaces reflect light differently, which can affect how we perceive the color temperature. We, therefore, recommend adjusting lighting choices based on the room's design and the materials used.

A bright kitchen with white tiles can reflect light in a way that makes 2700K look very yellow, while 3000K can provide a more neutral and pleasant tone. On the other hand, in environments with natural wood materials or stained surfaces, 2700K can give a softer and more inviting feel.

A guide through 2700K, 3000K, and 4000K

When talking about warm light, 2700 Kelvin and 3000 Kelvin are two of the most popular choices in the Nordics. But what is the actual difference between them, and when should you choose one over the other? And when is 4000K appropriate?

2700K - Imagine a traditional light bulb, with its golden, cozy glow. This is 2700K, a rich warm white light that gives the room an inviting and relaxing atmosphere. This is the glow we often associate with coziness.

3000K - Slightly brighter than its predecessor, 3000K still offers a warm tone but with a touch of clarity. This light has a somewhat more neutral tone, meaning it is closer to a pure white color compared to 2700K.

4000K – Neutral white light that strikes a balance between warmth and clarity, making it excellent for areas requiring both relaxation and focus.

 

Where do these lights fit best?

Living Room – A room where we relax, read a book or watch a movie. 2700K is perfect here to create the cozy atmosphere we crave after a long day.

Kitchen – We often need slightly brighter light for cooking in the kitchen. 3000K provides the extra sharpness needed without losing the warm feel. 4000K can offer a good balance for larger kitchens.

Bedroom – A mix of both may be ideal. Use 2700K for bed lighting for a calming effect and perhaps 3000K for wardrobes or makeup mirrors.

Bathroom – A place where we prepare for the day. 3000K may be advantageous here as it provides better light for makeup or shaving, yet is still soft enough for a relaxing bath. 4000K is especially suitable for larger bathrooms.

Office or workspaces – Both 3000K and 4000K are suitable here. While 3000K can provide a warm and inviting feel, 4000K may offer just the right balance between warmth and productivity for long workdays. The slight increase in clarity can help keep you alert and focused.

 

Adjust lighting according to material and surface

An area that can sometimes be overlooked when choosing lighting is how the light interacts with the materials and surfaces it illuminates. Different surfaces reflect light differently, which can affect how we perceive the color temperature. We, therefore, recommend adjusting lighting choices based on the room's design and the materials used.

A bright kitchen with white tiles can reflect light in a way that makes 2700K look very yellow, while 3000K can provide a more neutral and pleasant tone. On the other hand, in environments with natural wood materials or stained surfaces, 2700K can give a softer and more inviting feel.

 

Control color temperature with D-motion

When choosing lighting for your home or project, consider using LED-lights that offer various color temperatures and adjustable settings. This way, you can customize the lighting to suit your needs and moods. Beslag Design has introduced D-motion (D-M), a collection consisting of fixtures and drivers where you can easily control color temperature and adjust brightness.

Lighting can transform a room from dull to fantastic, and the right lighting can make a significant difference in how we feel in our homes. At Beslag Design, we understand this and always strive to offer you the best solutions for your home or project.

Explore D-M »

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