It’s easy to assume natural light is always preferable to artificial, but poor planning or lack of availability can offset its advantages. The light you choose for your residence or workplace can affect comfort and health. Below are some of the pros and cons of natural and artificial light.
Natural Light
Pros:
– Affects the tone of colors and makes skin appear healthier and more natural than does artificial lighting.
– Has been shown to improve mood, raising well-being, productivity, and overall happiness.
– Can decrease eyestrain.
– Reduces electricity costs.
Cons:
– Glare; direct sunlight on shiny surfaces reflects bright light, making it difficult to see or work.
– Though it brings life to homes and offices, sunlight will fade colors of furniture, artwork, rugs—anything it touches—over time.
– Heat; if not planned well, natural lighting can result in unwanted and expensive heat cooling costs.
Artificial Light
Of course, we don’t always have the luxury of natural light. Light bulbs were invented for a reason and, like it or not, most of us will spend a lot of time in their glow.
Pros:
– Extra time for work, schoolwork, and relaxation. Certain artificial lights can even mimic some of the features of natural light.
– Can dramatically change the mood and beauty of an interior room without windows.
Cons:
– Can have a negative effect on our sleep patterns and overall health.
– Contains both UV and infrared radiations, and wavelengths of light in artificial bulbs vary widely, making it hard to create a consistent lighting environment.
Unless you live underground or have sworn off electricity altogether, you will often be exposed to both artificial and natural light. Fine-tuning is the best way to get to the right balance for you, your family, or your employees.
