How to light up your university room to create a home away from home
By Michael Meiser Lighting Executive at Lumilum
With universities and colleges starting term, many students might be nervous about living away from home for the first time.
According to studies, the right amount and type of light improve mood, energy levels and concentration. So, lighting your room expertly can help you stay focused and relaxed when adjusting to such a new environment.
As the new term approaches, Michael Meiser, Lighting Executive at Lumilum, reveals how students can create flexible spaces within their university rooms using light to create a home away from home while studying.
Lighting for focus areas
Firstly, when choosing lights for your university room, LED light bulbs are the best option since they last much longer and consume far less energy.
To separate areas in a potentially small space, add light fixtures like a table lamp with a natural white or blue LED lightbulb with a colour temperature of at least 6,500K – the best for studying as they mimic daylight, which will keep your mind awake and focused.
A light of around 450 lumens will be bright enough for reading and writing while not so overpowering it strains your eyes after a while. To minimise the glare, ensure the lights are angled away from your face, away from polished surfaces where light can bounce off.
Purchasing a lamp with a dimmer setting will help you adjust the light intensity accordingly.
Additionally, look for LEDs with a colour rendering index (CRI) of 90+, as anything lower could affect your sleeping pattern and prove harmful to your health and studies in the long run.
Chilled-out lighting
When it comes to relaxing in your uni room, warmer lighting of 3000K and less,) is less harsh on your eyes and is ideal for recovering from a stressful day or winding down before bed.
There are several colours you could choose for relaxed lighting. A 2016 study found green light promotes the hormone melanopsin that helps you sleep. Meanwhile, red light has a similar comforting effect as it has the longest wavelength, so it is the least stimulating.
Although blue lights can be stimulating, they are also ideal for reducing stress quickly and could prove relaxing while watching a film, reading or relaxing after a long day.
It may be worth investing in a colour-changing lamp or light bulb that automatically changes or that you can adjust to suit the time of day and your mood.
Decorative lighting for a personal touch
Even if you’re on a budget, there are many ways to decorate your student room.
Fairy lights are the classic option, adding a magic touch to your room. You can drape them across walls, around pictures or outlining windows, and they help create a cosy ambience that’s perfect for winter months.
If you want to go down the neon route, get an LED sign with a quirky shape or phrase to add a personal touch that stands out. . These can also be great for parties and themed nights in a communal space.
Plus, incorporating skylights or a patterned lampshade will give your room a stunning view as they project patterns and images across your room.
