Effect of Light on internal Body Systems

Different wavelengths of light have a physical and psychological effect on the occupants of buildings.

Natural light has the most important spectrum needed for biological functions. The most important spectrum for humans ranges from 290 to 770 nanometers:

• 290 to 315 nanometers- Vitamin D absorption

• 280 to 400 nanometers- Tanning or pigmentation of the skin

• 400 to 700 nanometers- Visible spectrum of light

The energy in light causes the secretion of many endocrine hormones. When light enters our retina, it is transmitted to the hypothalamus which is responsible for our circadian rhythms. It synchronizes the internal 24-hour clock (Torcellini, 2002). Providing natural lighting, windows with scenic views in the design has a restoring, and calming effect on its user (Ergan, 2018). Studies show that crowding, the color of surfaces, level of artificial lighting, and presence/absence of visual cues (e.g., interior/exterior landmarks) were identified as part of environmental stressors. (Ergan, 2018).

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Effects of Light on Spatial Configuration and Perception of Space

Light is highly dependent on time. Seasonal time refers to the natural lighting conditions and their variation during the day, throughout the year, and the quality of light which changes in terms of intensity and hues. (Holl, Color Light Time, 2012, p. 106).​

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Relationship Between Light, Color & Space

Light causes the spaces to flow into each other and become connected through a gradient of reflection and deflection (Holl, Color Light Time, 2012, pp. 42-48). The spaces when flowed into each other, exhibit the qualities linked that can be identified through three expressions: motion; weight; substance.

 

• Motion refers to an element’s expression of dynamism or inertia- whether the elements seems to expand, contract, or rest.

• Weight refers to the element’s expression of heaviness or lightness.

• Substance involves the material expression – defines how hard or soft, or fine or coarse it is.

The diagram can be understood as an “interface of transfer”. The interface allows movement and changes the character and nature of the movement (motion) and the space (weight and substance). In architecture, the diagram resembles a transition, which could be seen as a void to transfer users through spaces, as an opening to cross ventilate or to allow light to enter (Thomas-Evensen, 1987).

The interface, through which light enters, changes its intensity, and created different shadows. Light and shadows play a vital role in altering the surface color to different shades.

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Color Psychology

“Color is the element that generates the perception of space and its relationships with the spectator. Instead of confined to form, color merges with light and generates a new ethereal effect on space”
(Holl, Color Light Time, 2012, pp. 22-23). Color can impact the mood and ambience of a space that the designer envisages for a user.