
CIRCADIAN LIGHTING
This Changes Everything
Light Is No Longer Simply “On” or “Off”
Before Edison patented the electric bulb in 1880, human life revolved naturally around daylight cycles, maintaining our body's innate circadian rhythms—the natural sleep-wake patterns driven by the rising and setting sun. The introduction of artificial light freed us from these natural constraints but also disrupted our internal clocks.
Today, extensive research confirms that lighting significantly affects both our physical and mental health. This is most evident through modern technology like the "Night Shift" mode on your iPhone. This feature adjusts your phone’s screen from a bright, energizing blue-white (around 7000 Kelvin) to a softer, relaxing amber hue (approximately 3000 Kelvin). At night, our bodies naturally anticipate warmer lighting, like the glow of a sunset (1600-2200 Kelvin), signaling melatonin production and encouraging sleep. Conversely, exposure to cooler, daylight tones suppresses melatonin, keeping us alert and awake.
Photo Courtesy of USAI
Despite this knowledge, most of us spend approximately 90% of our day under artificial, static lighting, detached from natural rhythms. However, circadian lighting—or Human-Centric Lighting (HCL)—is changing this. By adjusting indoor lighting dynamically to mimic the natural progression of daylight, we can not only improve sleep quality but also enhance overall wellness, mood, cognition, and alertness.
Circadian Lighting Is Here
Circadian lighting is no longer theoretical; it's here and bringing transformative benefits. In modern homes featuring expansive windows, circadian lighting automatically matches interior illumination to the natural outdoor light, making daylight feel like it's seamlessly integrated throughout the space. When combined with motorized shades, this effect becomes even more remarkable—allowing you to enjoy vibrant daylight while still protecting interiors and artwork from harmful UV rays. As evening arrives, your lights shift to comforting, warmer hues, creating the perfect environment for relaxation and restful sleep.
At Hamptons Lighting Design, we're experts in bringing these advanced lighting systems to life. Leveraging two decades of experience from our dedicated home technology division, we seamlessly integrate sophisticated lighting controls into luxury residences. Our skilled design team ensures each lighting solution perfectly complements your home's architecture and interior design.