Kelvins: Choosing The Right Color Temperature For Your Home [Free Infographic]

Color temperature plays a critical role in any interior space and its overall mood. Below is a fool-proof guide to better assist you when lighting your home.

Color temperature

First, what is color temperature? Color temperature is used to describe the appearance of an LED bulb’s light output. Color temperature is measured in Kelvins (K) on a scale from 1,000 to 10,000. 1,000K is the “warmest”  and most yellow looking light output while 10,000K is the “coolest” and most blue looking light output. However, most bulbs you’ll find often stand between 2700K and 6500K.

Room by room breakdown

Bedroom:

Bedrooms should enable one to relax, unwind, and rest. Oftentimes color temperatures that exceed 3700K promote energy and visual stimulation; not something you want when you’re trying to unwind for the day.

Our suggestion: 2700K-3000K. The perfect sweet spot between cozy and fresh!

Bathroom:

Unlike a bedroom, a bathroom’s primary function isn’t to promote relaxation. Instead, bathrooms are utility and task-driven. Bathroom spaces should be a bit cooler and brighter so one can easily perform tasks like shaving, applying makeup, or styling hair. 

Our suggestion: 3000K-4000K

Great room:

Great rooms are often used as multi-functional spaces. A great room may need to entertain by day and promote relaxation by night. 

Our suggestion: 2700K-3000K

*pro tip: install a dimmer to help adjust the light output throughout the day.

Dining room:

A dining room should be bright enough to entertain and eat a meal. However, it should be warm enough to feel inviting and calm.

Our suggestion: 2700K-3000K

Kitchen:

Like a bathroom, a kitchen is primarily task-driven. Bright light would be ideal for eating and preparing a meal. However, being the most used room in the house, your kitchen still needs to feel comfortable and inviting.

Our suggestion: 2700K-4000K

If color temperature feels overwhelming to you, consider using a 3000K LED in your space. At Lighting Design, we consider 3000K to be a phenomenal color temperature for most any living space!

If you have any questions regarding color temperature, feel free to contact us at cs@lightingdesign.com. We also offer free in-person and virtual consultations!