The Effect of Illuminance and Color Temperature of LED Lighting on Occupants' Perception and HRV

Purpose: It is crucially important that indoor luminous conditions of built environments be carefully studied so as to promote comfort and occupants' well-being. Method: The current study therefore focuses on the lit aspect of an enclosed space considered to be a resting room ($4.5m{\times}6.32m{\times}2.5m$). Particularly, on the effect that light levels and light color temperatures have on the physiological and psychological responses of resting occupants. To do so, a questionnaire survey was carried out on 50 subjects. The independent variables for the experiment included 9 different luminous environment conditions setup using 3 different levels of illuminance (50 lx, 150 lx, 300 lx) and 3 different color temperatures (2000 K, 3800 K, 5600 K). A questionnaire was utilized in determining which conditions were preferred by occupants. Result: As it turns out, indoor luminous environment designed for relaxation purposes should display luminance levels of at least 150 lx and 3800 K of color temperature in order to provide a visually comfortable environment suitable for the occupant's relaxation while at the same time promoting the psychological and HRV well-being of resting occupants.