The world of architecture hides within itself countless whimsical treasures. With the right blend of mathematics and creativity, enigmatic spaces are created every day. An architectural design produces, combines, and influences every element like a wall, floor, stairs, columns, arches, etc., to give the imagination a form and space.

However, architecture is not as innocuous as it may seem. While it can fill us with a joy to behold, it can cause turbulence of emotions in us as per Architectural psychology. Architectural Psychology is a branch of psychology that studies the relationship between the human psyche, behaviour and emotions, and architecture.

Although culture affects our perception and experiences with light, we can draw some general conclusions. Let us see how light can affect you psychologically, according to the research of architectural psychology.

An overview of the history of light within our houses

Before Edison invented light bulbs, oil lamps, candles, lanterns, etc., were the most prominent sources of light in an average dwelling. With the invention of the light bulb, working at night became more practical.

In the subsequent years, with advancements in sciences, we have the marvel of LED lights, which are often encased in decorative covers to form chandeliers, pendant lamps, sconces, and several other outdoor LED lighting, etc.

As we have gained much more control of the light within our spaces, let's see how spaces and lights relate to architectural psychology.

Light and Space

Space in design is the expanse within the form that one intends to create. Each space holds a specific purpose, and it adds depth and dimension to architecture. The illumination within this space profoundly affects our experience and perception of the area.

A few investigative examples are:-

●  Bright light tends to enhance the intensity of our emotions in a positive manner. It can also excite us.

●  Dim or a balanced light can make our emotions stable and facilitate decision making and rational thinking.

Light and sleep

Different wavelengths of light affect our sleep cycle. Red light can make us sleepy and also impair our attention. At the same time, blue light can make us active and disrupt our sleep schedule. Hence it is imperative to make sure to have appropriate light in your bedroom.

Light and mood

Bright light can make us happy. In fact, sunlight can be used to alleviate stress and sadness. Different hues of light have a different impact on our mood. Here is a list of a few influences of wavelengths of light:-

●  Blue and white light exposure stimulate a lot of mental activity as well as make our concentration better. The impact of blue light is so profound that people who cannot see also        get influenced by blue light.

●  Purple light can induce a state of calm within us. It is thus helpful for the management of stress.

●  Red light facilitates melatonin secretion. This hormone is responsible for sleep. Hence, the red colour can help one to fall asleep.

●  Vibrant light like orange, yellow, etc., make us feel more creative.

Light and business

Light can enhance or reduce several cognitive abilities tentatively. Some researchers give fascinating insights into the relationship between employee productivity and light in their work environment. These are:-

●  A couple of months-long study of the University of Greenwich: Employees reported greater productivity and enhanced attention span in the presence of blue light bulb. This was because the presence of blue light can stimulate the brain and make it more alert. Hence, employees did not feel sleepy and could focus better on work.

●  A case-control pilot study by the J Clin Sleep Med: Employees exposed to sunlight reported enhanced sleep experience and work enjoyment. Employees who did not get sunlight due to the absence of windows experienced fatigue and lack of will to work.

Conclusion

The role of the light bulb is not limited to providing clarity of vision but extends to facilitating our emotional wellbeing. Hence, light, as an extricable element of architecture, cannot be neglected. We must only opt for the best products in the market to elevate our standard of living.