You spent countless hours choosing the perfect Mitzi light fixture…it’s time to pick out light bulbs and you’re met with a sea of overwhelming options. Most of the boxes list a K value from 2000-6000 and words like “warm”, “cool”, and “daylight”. Meet Kelvin! Without boring you with too much physics, here’s what it means and why it matters.
The Kelvin scale, measured in K, is a scientific way to measure the color temperature of a light source. Light colors with lower K values, such as 2700K, are warmer and more yellow or orange in tint. These lights are often used in bedrooms and living rooms to create a cozy atmosphere. Light colors with higher Kelvin values, such as 4000K and above, are cooler and tend to have a whiter and/or a more blue hue of light. Lights with high K values are often used in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and offices because they are more task-driven.
Mayla Pendant | Image Credits: Design, Megan Molten @meganmolten, Photo, Margaret Wright @margaret.wright
When placing pendant lights over a kitchen island or sink, you’re going to want something cooler in temperature/higher in Kelvin. In this setting, the hanging pendants over the dining table, are essentially task and ambient lighting, spotlighting everything from your mise en place to an impromptu WFH setup.
Abbey Wall Sconce by Mandy Cheng X Mitzi
Accent lighting like wall sconces, can go moodier in the warmth department. This thoughtfully-placed wall light is in the 2700 K range, giving the perfect glow for reading a book or watching TV.
Mariana Floor Lamp | Image Credits: Design, Megan Molten @meganmolten, Photo, Margaret Wright @margaret.wright
For a bedroom or nursery, a warmer Kelvin color temperature of light will create a calm and relaxing environment. Save the bright lights for the bathroom! Whether you’re outfitting bedside table lamps or a towering floor lamp, a little warmth goes a long way in curating a dreamy and cozy sleeping atmosphere.
Speaking of bathrooms, this retro inspired design pairs with lights that match its vibrant energy. Likely 4000K, these bright white bulbs brighten up the small space. Making it ideal for applying make-up or shaving!
Haven’t cracked the Kelvin code? Schedule a free one-on-one Zoom or email consultation with our expert stylist.