How does lighting affect the perception of space?

Lighting can have a significant impact on the perception of space. It can make a room appear bigger or smaller, bright or dull, cozy or uncomfortable. Here are some ways that lighting affects our perception of space:

1. Brightness – Bright lighting can make a space appear larger and more open, while dimmer lighting can make a space feel cozy and intimate.

2. Color Temperature – The color temperature of light can affect how a space feels. Warmer lights (yellow, orange) provide a sense of coziness, while cooler lights (blue, white) create a more clinical feeling.

3. Shadows – Shadows created by lighting can provide depth and dimension to space. Well-placed shadows can create an illusion of space, while poorly placed shadows can make a space feel cramped.

4. Highlighting – Lighting that highlights certain areas of a room can draw attention to specific features, creating a focal point and making a space feel more interesting.

5. Contrast – Contrast can create visual interest and help define the boundaries of a space. Lighting that creates contrast can make a space feel bigger or small depending on how it is used.

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