Lighting impact on stress reduction: A study of correlated color temperature in workplace design utilizing neuroarchitecture principles

Abstract

Several studies have examined lighting in workplace environments, however little research has focused on how different correlated color temperatures (CCT) affect stress reduction. This study aims to identify the most effective lighting condition for stress recovery by comparing the stress-reducing effects of 4000 K and 6000 K CCTs utilizing Neuroarchitecture principles. By understanding how different elements of a built environment affect the human brain, neuroarchitecture aims to create more effective, harmonious, and human-centered spaces. An experiment was conducted with 36 participants (aged 19 to 26, mean age 22.5), who completed a stressful memory task before being exposed to a virtual workplace environment under both lighting conditions. The recovery process was repeated for each CCT, and heart rate responses—measured via pulse oximeter while participants wore a virtual reality (VR) headset—were used as an objective stress indicator. A post-experiment survey evaluated subjective preferences. Results indicated that both lighting conditions reduced stress, but the 6000 K environment offered a slight advantage in promoting relaxation. Additionally, 80.5 % of participants reported feeling less stressed under the 6000 K condition, although 50 % showed a discrepancy between their subjective preferences and heart rate data. This study provides valuable insights for workplace design, emphasizing the role of lighting in supporting employees’ well-being.