Lighting does more than illuminate a space; it shapes how we feel, think, and even interact with our environment. Whether you’re designing a tranquil home sanctuary or a high-performing office, the right lighting can enhance mood, boost productivity, and foster relaxation.

The Connection Between Lighting and Wellness

Lighting affects our circadian rhythms—our body’s natural 24-hour cycle—which influence sleep, energy levels, and overall health. Exposure to natural light during the day improves mood, focus, and productivity, while dim, warm lighting in the evening supports restful sleep.

Incorporating thoughtful lighting design into your spaces can:

• Improve mental health by reducing stress and anxiety.

• Boost productivity in workspaces with appropriate task lighting.

• Enhance relaxation with ambient and layered lighting.

Residential Lighting: Creating a Sanctuary

In the home, lighting should align with the purpose of each space. Here are tips for optimizing wellness through residential lighting:

Maximize Natural Light

Arrange furniture to make the most of windows and consider sheer curtains to diffuse light without blocking it.

Explore our remodeling services to integrate skylights or larger windows into your design.

Choose Bulb Temperatures Wisely

Opt for cooler temperatures (4000-5000K) in kitchens and home offices to mimic daylight and warmer tones (2700-3000K) in living areas and bedrooms to promote relaxation.

Prioritize Quality Fixtures

Invest in lighting that combines function and aesthetics. Unique pendants or statement sconces can double as decor.

Check out our residential services for guidance.

Layer Your Lighting

We’re noticing a growing trend of moving away from standard overhead ceiling lights (often referred to as 'the big light') as the primary source of lighting in a space—and we fully support it. Overhead lighting alone can feel harsh and uninviting, which is why we prioritize layered lighting solutions.

Here’s what Interior Designer Chloe had to say about layered lighting:

“The use of ‘the big light’ is falling out of favor in 2025. Overhead lights tend to create a cool-toned wash that doesn’t adapt well to living spaces and can make a space feel unnecessarily cold. We’re seeing more and more people embrace a more layered approach—which allows for greater control over the mood and functionality of a space.”

Use a combination of overhead, task, and accent lighting to create depth and flexibility. Install dimmer switches to adjust brightness as the lighting changes.

Commercial Lighting: Fostering Productivity

In offices, retail spaces, and other commercial settings, lighting directly impacts performance and customer experience. Here’s how to design with wellness in mind:

Task Lighting for Focus

Provide adequate desk lamps or overhead lighting that reduces glare and eyestrain. LED fixtures are energy-efficient and long-lasting.

Ambient Lighting for Atmosphere

For collaborative spaces, diffuse lighting creates an inviting and energizing environment.

Our commercial design services specialize in balancing functionality and style.

Integrate Smart Controls

Automated systems adjust lighting levels throughout the day to align with natural circadian rhythms, enhancing employee well-being and energy efficiency.

Consider Color Rendering

In retail or hospitality, high Color Rendering Index (CRI) lighting ensures true-to-life colors, improving visual appeal and customer satisfaction.

Why Work with a Designer? When developing large commercial spaces, details like proper lighting can get overlooked. For example, while working on Equality Health, we noticed the architectural plans were missing specifications for overhead fixtures, leaving the space unexpectedly dark at install. We teamed up with a local artist to commission some custom pendants inspired by the colorful murals and graffiti art throughout the space, which brought some much needed light to the space and ultimately allowed the office to open on time while honoring the unique aesthetic of the space and surrounding community.

Wellness Tips for Both Residential and Commercial Spaces

• Add Biophilic Elements: Pair lighting with natural materials and greenery to mimic outdoor environments. Plants thrive under full-spectrum lighting, improving air quality and mood.

• Avoid Overlighting: Excessive brightness can cause discomfort. Use layered lighting and dimmers to create balance.

• Highlight Architectural Features: Accent lighting can draw attention to textures or design details, adding interest and depth.

Lighting is not just a functional necessity; it’s a cornerstone of wellness and design. By thoughtfully selecting and layering lighting, you can create environments that uplift mood, enhance productivity, and promote relaxation—at home and at work.

Ready to Transform Your Space? Whether you’re refreshing your home or reimagining a commercial property, lighting plays a vital role in creating spaces that support your well-being. Contact us today to learn more about our design services and how we can tailor lighting solutions to your needs.

About Mackenzie Collier Interiors

Established in 2011, Mackenzie Collier Interiors is a Phoenix-based design firm specializing in residential and commercial spaces. Our team crafts unique environments tailored to client visions, tackling projects from home renovations to large-scale multi-family housing developments. Proudly LGBTQ owned, Mackenzie Collier Interiors prioritizes transparency and efficiency, offering inclusive design services nationwide.