Light

Why are Scandinavians so good at lighting? The long and dark winters of the north pushes people inside, where they create a cosy atmosphere with the help of candles and artificial light to enjoy themselves until spring comes along. This is the most common and surely also correct explanation, but not the only interpretation.

The geographical location of the Nordic countries means that light changes very slowly: sunrise and sunset might take around 30 minutes in Switzerland, whereas it might take two hours in Scandinavia depending on the latitude and season. Hence, light is perceived in “slow-motion”, and you identify every change in it. In winter, the sun shows itself rarely and shines from a flat, blinding angle and in summer it never sets above the polar circle and in the south, it just dips below the horizon only to rise again. This impacts peoples' perception of light and develops a strong sensibility for lighting spaces.

Lighting is an important, yet quite challenging topic. Many, who are quite happy with their choice of furniture so far, only arrive at the lighting to find themselves overwhelmed. Lighting, just as acoustics, has a similar effect on an interior: a perfect selection of furnishings will never feel enjoyable unless the lighting is atmospheric and functional and the acoustic favourable!

Your first steps to natural lighting at home:

1. Several (many more than you think) various lights in a room is central for a good result.

2. Select the right light for the right spot:

• Is the shape, material, colour, and the way that the lamp emits light suitable for the space?

3. Select the right light source for the right spot:

• Try out different light sources to find the right temperature, colour reproduction and intensity.

In case you are still stuck, why not make an appointment with one of our consultants?