How Light Temperature Affects Colour

Ever wonder why the paint swatches you gathered at the store aren’t looking so hot when you get them home? This is because the lighting temperature has changed, and lighting temperature affects colour readability. Light temperature is measured in Kelvin (K). It is measured from 1000k 🥵 to 10000k 🥶. Interior light usually ranges from 2000k (think warm tungsten bulb) to 5000k (cool day light). Day light (5000k) will read colours at their truest. Warm light promotes relaxation and creates a cozy and inviting space. Perfect for you. Cool light promotes alertness and is better suited for working areas. Perfect for surgeons. 3000 is a good number to aim for. The most important thing is to keep the temperature consistent throughout a room. Ultimately it comes down to your use and your preference! The ability to select the temperature of your light fixtures is great but what about light sources that are less customizable? I’m talking about natural light.

I think we can all agree that rooms with big windows and natural light are the best. But they can also be the most challenging when it comes to understanding the light temperature because the natural light changes throughout the day, and depending on the weather outside. The orientation of your room will determine how much natural light it receives. This will affect your paint colours. Let’s break it down 🕺👉

North facing rooms
- Most consistent light throughout the day.
- Least amount of light throughout the day.
- Cool lighting tones.
- Select colours with warm undertones.

South facing rooms
- Second most consistent light; fluctuating some with seasons.
- Consistent warm light throughout the day.
- Warm and cool colours will work in this room, but if the colour is too warm it may appear too bold.

East and West facing rooms
- East experiences warm light in the morning and cool in the evening.
- West experiences cool light in the morning and warm light in the evening.
- Neutral colours are best in these spaces or a mix of warm and cool.

Viewing a sample of your paint at various times throughout the day is the best way to determine if your paint selections will be a success.