The light emitted from our lamps and fixtures at home doesn’t just spruce up a room; it has the power to significantly augment our mood and lift our spirits.

To explore further the link between lighting and personal wellbeing, glass engineering company Cantifix and Oxford University have collaborated to create the Photon Project. This scientific study came to life at last month’s London Design Festival in the form of the Photon Pod, an all-glass living space that will help the Photon Project gather data and insights on the links between light and health.

Resembling a futuristic room, the pod invites visitors to experience what life is like in a completely translucent living space, as well as take part in simulations that measure levels of alertness or relaxation under varied light conditions.

“Understanding how people feel in different light settings means applying designed light in ways that harmonize with natural light and benefit people when they’re at home, at work – and anywhere else, at any time,” explains Brent Richards, designer of the Photon Pod.

The pod includes color-tuneable lights such as a Philips HUE lamp, featuring an LED bulb that homeowners can control via an accompanying app to create different moods and to even set up light timers for more efficient wake-up calls.

Philips is no stranger to this type of research. The lighting giant has been carrying out studies on the biological effects of light – like the Philips’ SchoolVision project, which showed how light improves children’s learning and keeps students more alert.

“With Philips Hue, we are only beginning to understand the endless creative possibilities digital lighting will bring,” says Sean Carney, Philips Chief Design Officer.“Whether supporting our bodies’ own natural balance by simulating daylight or achieving something much deeper, promoting feelings of wellness.”

Researchers hope that the results from this four-year study will help inform new standards and light-related solutions for many types of buildings and homes.

Sources:

1. PFSK:
   Health Benefits of Lights.