Ambient light involves using certain levels of color, temperature and brightness. In this sense, adequate ambient lighting must incorporate ceiling suspension luminaires, wall sconces or recessed spotlights. Furthermore, this selection must consider the space since, depending on the place or time, it has to provide the necessary clarity to provide comfort and relaxation without losing functionality.

What is defined as ambient light?

In essence, this concept refers to the main light source in a room or room. Specifically, this is the basis on which a space is illuminated, and generally, its function is to provide warmth, depth and clarity to create different atmospheres and environments. To do this, the lighting must be soft and dim, although it can be combined with other types of more localized luminaires for specific areas within a room.

Factors to take into account when using ambient light

Among the general considerations to be taken into account by designers is the absence of flashes or glare. In addition, we must add certain criteria that guarantee security and ensure transit and a good view of the room at all times.

In this sense, another essential requirement is usually a central lighting source. Therefore, a complete and balanced project must include this and other complementary options to be used, exclusively or in combination, in parts and in time slots in which the nature of the activity is required.

The concept of human-centric lighting has recently gained popularity. This is basically because this type of lighting technology can offer facilities adapted to circadian rhythms and the mimicry of natural lighting, which provides high levels of comfort and a feeling of well-being.

The type of space that we are going to illuminate

The first step to undertake a project of this nature consists of studying the space where the installation will be implemented since its main and secondary uses determine the planning and the result. For example, a living-dining room may require basic lighting fixtures, such as LED strips, track lights, recessed lights, chandeliers, table or floor lamps, and wall- or ceiling-mounted lighting.

Coffee ambient light

In private homes, the main source of a room is usually a central light fixture that emits bright white light throughout the space, helping you see clearly and avoid eye strain. A bar, a restaurant or an industrial facility, be it a factory or, for example, a laundry, is different. Typically, restaurant settings tone down the levels to add depth and warmth so customers feel comfortable and relaxed.

Color temperature

Color temperature is a very effective parameter for generating specific environments. To make them intimate and welcoming, for example, it is recommended to choose warm white LED lights to emit a slightly orange or yellow glow, as it invites rest.

The warmth of a light is measured in Kelvins and ranges from white at 2000 K to cold, bluish lights with a reading of 6000 K. For ambient light, it is advisable to opt for LED technology with a color temperature between 2000 K (bright white ) and 3000k (warm white), as it creates excellent conditions for relaxation while offering enough lighting to perform basic tasks.

Avoid glare

To achieve maximum visual comfort, one of the constants in any lighting project is the factor of glare or flashes. Mitigating or avoiding them entirely is a challenge for any designer. Using screens in luminaires can be a solution so that a spotlight does not dazzle. However, there are luminaires, wall lights or projectors with optimal technical characteristics that reduce these effects.

The main ambient lights to create this lighting mode are:

LED strips: provide a magnificent aesthetic that mixes modernity, visual comfort and a feeling of well-being. These plates are elongated and flexible, with several points of light that can be distributed creatively in all types of spaces.

Suspension: it is the most traditional solution and an essential element in most projects of this type, especially for those looking for a classic look. Combining it with LED strips and wall lights is most recommended for a better result.

Where to apply ambient light

A correct lighting installation requires consideration of aesthetic criteria and practical and functional criteria depending on the space to be illuminated. In this sense, a key factor is the color rendering index (CRI) of light sources, which refers to the ability to faithfully reveal the colors of various objects compared to a natural light source (sunlight). It is measured on a scale from 0 to 100, with 0 being poor CRI and 100 being best.

Homes: private homes have a recommended minimum of 75 CRI, which is similar to daylight.

Restaurants: in restaurants or commercial establishments, the minimum CRI indicated is 90, so the color reproduction is as reliable as possible.

Hotels: These establishments include various areas to rest, eat, work, etc. Therefore, depending on the objective, they have to adapt each of these areas to specific lighting requirements.

Ubibotus has various products with varied designs and the most advanced technology to provide adequate lighting security with the alert notification system without sacrificing quality, durability and energy efficiency.