Wellbeing, light, and design: a new priority in contemporary spaces
Wellbeing has become one of the central pillars of contemporary interior design, especially in spaces where people spend a significant portion of their lives. Within this context, light is no longer merely a functional element; it has become a determining factor in the user’s emotional, cognitive, and physiological experience.
As Raquel Gutiérrez mentioned in one of our podcast “Espacios que Hablan” episode: “It’s important that the concept of wellbeing is integrated into projects because lighting plays a role. Ultimately, we live in a world where we are no longer always aligned with the natural rhythm of: sunrise, I go to work; sunset, I go home.” This reflection captures one of the major challenges currently facing interior design in hotels, hospitals, offices, and other environments: designing spaces that align with real-life rhythms.
Circadian Rhythm and Spaces Without Natural Light
Today, for better or worse, we inhabit environments where natural light is not always present. “We spend a great deal of time in spaces without natural light, and often outside the normal hours of the circadian cycle.” This reality directly impacts both physical and emotional wellbeing. In hospitals, where user sensitivity is even greater, lighting design carries added responsibility.
The Challenge of Lighting in Healthcare Environments
In healthcare settings, the challenge is evident. “I don’t know a single hospital that is well lit. In the end, people usually go there because they have problems, right? So the emotional sensitivity they need at that moment seems like a huge challenge for all of us.” In this sense, lighting must evolve toward solutions that reduce the negative impact of harsh artificial light.
Scientific Evidence and the Evolution of Hospitality Design
Because the issue is real: “Many people live their day and night in places where the light is terrifyingly pulsating.” Scientific research supports this concern. “Studies have demonstrated how light affects you cognitively and hormonally.” For this reason, interior design trends are moving toward dynamic, adjustable systems capable of adapting to biological rhythms.
The evolution lies precisely in integrating technology, design, and health. “I believe the motivation behind artificial lighting — or POLIGHT in this case — is to demonstrate how light can contribute positively to any aspect of your life or any type of use.”
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