Biophilic Design: Light Element

The Light element in a home plays a crucial role in promoting a healthy living environment. It goes beyond mere aesthetics and has a direct impact on our well-being. Designing for health entails considering the lighting aspects of a space, and how it can positively influence our physical and mental health.

Source of Light and Energy

Nicola Tesla, the great inventor and futurist, said something so basic, yet deeply profound over 116 years ago: the only source of energy, powering every living thing, is the sun. That is the most generic and pure form of energy and we must ensure that we are surrounded by abundance of light. There is no doubt, natural exposure to light is super healthy for our mental and physical health and should be maximized within one’s living environment. Exposing yourself to sunlight is a big part of the health equation. Designing your home for receiving plenty of natural light is a key to boosting your mood, productivity and improve your sleep patterns. Clearly, natural lighting requires plenty of windows throughout a home, especially over work areas, such as kitchen counters and offices.

Natural light, in particular, is highly beneficial. It not only enhances the visual appeal of a room but also provides essential nutrients like Vitamin D, which contributes to bone health and immune system function.

Consider These Design Features

When designing a new home or redesigning an existent one, consider the following light-enabling features:

• Clerestory windows – positioned near the ceiling to maximize sunlight and preserve privacy.
• Above-counter windows, in the area between cabinets and the counter.
• Skylights or tubular daylighting devices. For homes with dark, windowless hallway, skylights or cylindrical mini-skylights can let the light in.
• Windows onto stairwells. Floating stairs, are especially effective for maximizing light.
• Glass doors allow in plenty of sunlight. Imprinted or textured glass improves privacy without obstructing light.
• Open floor plans allow any natural light to penetrate much easier.
• Large mirrors magnify natural light by bouncing it back at the observer.
• Lighting diversity, with different light points at various heights throughout each room.

Prioritize the Light Element in Your Home

Automatic solar-adaptive shades that adjust throughout the day in response to the changing position of the sun is a great design solution as well. When using artificial light, install smart, adjustable color temperature light bulbs throughout the home to help reinforce the body’s Circadian rhythm which most people ignore. By prioritizing the Light element in home design, we can create spaces that not only look beautiful but also contribute to our overall well-being.