When selecting colours for a home, most people focus on paint swatches, fabric samples, and material finishes. Yet one of the most influential factors in how those colours are ultimately perceived is often overlooked is the lighting itself. Light does far more than illuminate a space. It actively influences the appearance of every colour, texture, and finish within it. This is why a colour that looked perfect in a showroom or under natural daylight can feel entirely different once installed at home. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Rachna Bajaj Joshi, director at Abby Lighting, shared tips on how to choose the correct lighting for your home.
Also read | From foldable tables to hidden storage, these 7 multifunctional decor ideas are perfect for compact homes
Colour temperature
Rachna Bajaj highlighted that at the foundation of this relationship is colour temperature, measured in Kelvin (K). Lower colour temperatures, typically between 2700K and 3000K, produce a warmer, more golden light. Higher colour temperatures, generally above 4000K, create a cooler, crisper appearance.
The effect on interiors can be surprisingly dramatic. A cool white light can mute the warmth of beige walls, making them appear grey or washed out. Conversely, a warm light source can introduce yellow undertones into a crisp white interior, altering the clean aesthetic many homeowners are trying to achieve. “Understanding this interaction is essential when selecting both colours and lighting,” said Rachna.
Match interiors with lightings
As a general rule, warm-toned interiors tend to perform best under warmer light. Rich terracottas, timber finishes, earthy neutrals, and warm beiges often appear more inviting and layered when illuminated by light in the 2700K to 3000K range. Cooler palettes, including greys, blues, greens, and contemporary white schemes, typically benefit from neutral or cooler lighting that preserves their clarity and freshness.
Select multiple colour temperatures
“Effective residential lighting does not always require a single colour temperature throughout a home. It is often possible to combine colour temperatures when they are relatively close to one another and aligned with the function of the space,” highlighted Rachna. For example, a living room may feature 2700K cove lighting paired with 3000K task lighting, while a home can comfortably transition from 3000K lighting in living spaces to 4000K lighting in kitchens, where greater visual clarity is often preferred.
Check for the colour rendering index
Colour temperature, however, is only part of the equation. Equally important is the colour rendering index, or CRI, which measures a light source’s ability to reveal colours accurately. This is particularly important in homes that feature bold artwork, vibrant furnishings, natural materials, or richly coloured finishes. High-CRI lighting, typically rated 90 or above, allows colours to appear more saturated, nuanced, and true to their intended appearance. Lower-quality light sources can make colours appear dull, flat, or lacking in depth.
Opt for multiple light settings
Rachna highlighted that the good news is that homeowners no longer need to rely on a single lighting setting. Through layered lighting, dimmable controls, and tunable white technology, spaces can adapt throughout the day while maintaining visual comfort and colour accuracy. Ambient lighting can establish the overall mood, while task and accent lighting add flexibility and depth. New tunable white LED solutions can even transition from functional white light to very warm 1800K tones, creating a soft sunset-like ambience in the evening.
