Lighting 101
Warm vs Cool: A Lighting Temperature Guide
2700K or 4000K? Edison or LED? The temperature of a bulb changes how a room feels more than almost any other choice.
Sofia Hernandez · June 14, 2026 · 7 min read
Lighting temperature is measured in Kelvin. Lower numbers (2200-2700K) are warmer and more yellow — like a candle or a sunset. Higher numbers (4000-5000K) are cooler and bluer — like a hospital or an office.
Where to use warm light
Living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, and any space you want to feel calm and welcoming. Aim for 2200-2700K. If you have a lot of natural warm wood, lean toward 2200K — it amplifies the warmth.
Where to use cool light
Kitchens, bathrooms, home offices, and any task-heavy space. 3000-3500K is the sweet spot. Above 4000K, a room starts to feel sterile — useful in a workshop, less so at the breakfast bar.
The smart move: dim everything
Dimmable LEDs let you tune the mood on demand. 100 percent at 6am for coffee, 30 percent at 9pm for a film. The colour stays the same; only the intensity changes.