Correlated color temperature (CCT) refers to the perceived color of a light source. CCT ranges from warm light, which comes off in a yellow color, and cool light, which is perceived as blue or white. Measured in Kelvins (k), color temperature ranges from 2700K to 6500K. Lower CCT gives off warm tones while higher CCT comes off as cool tones.

The right color temperature needs to be chosen based on your space, what it should feel like, and what its functions are. Warmer tones, 2700K to 3500K, are often used in the hospitality industry for businesses like hotels and restaurants to create a relaxing and comforting feeling in guests. On the other hand, cooler tones, 3500K to 5000K, are used in offices, hospitals and industrial facilities to improve focus and productivity. The scale below breaks down color temperature ranges:

While CCT measures the color of the light, CRI affects how objects look under the light. Color rendering index measures how accurately a light source reveals the true colors of objects. CRI matters the most in commercial spaces where aesthetics is the forefront of a brand. Retail businesses and restaurants need to display accurate colors of their products to keep their customers appealed. Choosing the right CRI with CCT can change the effect of the furnishings and decorations in a space. For example, if your space features cool-toned décor, like silver, blue, or white, lighting with a cooler color temperature will enhance these hues. Conversely, warm-toned furnishings such as wood, red, or gold will look best under warmer lighting.

• Outdoor sites and parking garages: Lighting efficiency is often prioritized over color temperature in these areas. The recommended CCT for outdoor commercial lighting ranges from 3000K to 5000K, providing high visibility and safety.
• Retail stores: The right color temperature can vary depending on the store’s brand, ambiance, and location. Retailers typically choose between 2700K and 4000K to create an inviting yet functional space.
• Restaurants: High-end restaurants tend to favor warmer color temperatures (1800K to 2700K) to create a cozy, intimate dining experience, while quick-serve restaurants often opt for a range of 2700K to 3500K for a brighter, more energetic atmosphere.
• Hotels: In hotel settings, lighting can vary depending on the area. For instance, lobbies and hallways often have warm lighting (1800K to 3000K), while guest rooms use a slightly cooler range (2700K to 3000K) to balance comfort and function.
• Offices: Office environments benefit from cool or neutral lighting (3000K to 4000K) that boosts productivity and focus, making it ideal for workspaces and conference rooms.
• Hospitals: Lighting in healthcare facilities requires cool tones (3500K to 5000K) to promote clarity and alertness, essential for medical procedures and patient care.
• Schools and universities: Schools use a mix of warm and cool lighting, with warm tones (2700K to 3500K) in dining areas and cooler lighting (3500K to 5000K) in classrooms and common spaces.

When considering lighting for specific commercial spaces, understanding the function of each room can help you select the ideal color temperature:

• Bathrooms: In commercial bathrooms, a bright, cool color temperature (4000K to 5000K) provides clear visibility and energizes people, making it perfect for areas where precision is key.
• Kitchens and dining rooms: For kitchens, a mix of warm white (3000K) and cool white (4000K) works best. Warm tones create a cozy atmosphere in dining areas, while cooler lighting offers brightness and focus during food preparation.
• Living rooms and bedrooms (in hospitality): For relaxing spaces like living rooms or bedrooms, a soft, warm color temperature (2700K to 3000K) provides a calming environment, ideal for unwinding after a long day.

Deciding on lighting for a commercial space needs to be done strategically. Color temperature is one of many factors that gain customers attention, retain regular clients and create a comfortable work environment for employees. By following our guide, your commercial space can find the right lighting for specific spaces and business needs.

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