Which Type of White Light Is Better for Outdoor Use: Cool or Warm?

Many customers who visit our showroom often ask, which type of white light is better for outdoor use: cool or warm?

When it comes to lighting outdoor spaces, choosing the right type of white light has a significant impact on the ambience and functionality of the area. One of the most crucial factors to consider is the colour temperature of the lighting.

Light can be classified into two main categories based on its colour temperature: cool and warm. Each type of white light has its benefits and drawbacks that can affect how well it performs in an outdoor setting.

In this article, we will explore the differences between cool and warm white light. Let's look more closely and determine which lighting works best outside.

What is cool and warm white light?

Cool white light

Pure white with a hint of blue makes up cool white light. It looks like what you'd see coming from a fluorescent light bulb or the sun on a foggy day. You can use it in kitchens and bathrooms as it is excellent for general-purpose lighting.

Energy-efficient lights produce cool white lights such as CFLs (compact fluorescent lamps) and LEDs. Efficiency rather than looks is given priority when designing these light bulbs. Hence, these bulbs are also known as "daylight" or "cool white" to help distinguish them from other types of bulbs that produce warmer light.

Warm white light

The warm white light is more yellowish and has less blue than the cool white light. This incandescent bulb produces light that resembles the sun on a scorching summer day. This light is brilliant for general-purpose lighting, yet it's better suited to areas like the living room or bedroom.

If you have a hard time choosing the perfect lighting, we highly suggest looking at the Pharos Floor Lamp by Ethimo. This outdoor lighting provides a pleasant feeling to your exterior space.

Some tips for choosing the right colour of light

There are different forms of light you can use if you want to set a mood or add some ambience to your outdoor environment. Here are some tips for choosing the right colour for your garden or outdoor space:

• Consider the room's function: The colour of light you choose should depend on the function of the room. For example, warm colours work well in living rooms and bedrooms, while cool colours like the Empty Outdoor Lighting by Vibia are better suited for your garden or patio.
• Think about the mood you want to create: Different colours of light can create specific moods. Warm colours create a cosy and inviting atmosphere, while cool colours can create a calming and relaxing environment.
• Think about your other lighting choices: If you already have other lights in your garden or outdoor space that illuminate the area at night, consider choosing a different type of bulb so they don't clash with each other's colours.

Are there any benefits to using light outdoors?

There are a few benefits to using cool white or warm white light outdoors. Cool white light is bluer, so it's better for being able to see things in the distance. This makes it great for use in areas where you need to light up a larger space like your patio.

Warm white light is more yellow, so it's better for illuminating close-up objects. This makes it ideal for use at home or in places like your garden. Browse our recent work in our interior design portfolio for design inspiration and let us know if any of the styles or colours catch your eye.

How can you create the perfect outdoor lighting scheme?

Outdoor lighting is tricky. If you've got a lot of trees and plants in your yard, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the amount of light they'll reflect at you. But there's a simple fix, use cool white and warm white lights.

To create a perfect outdoor lighting scheme using cool white and warm white lights, you'll want to use warm white bulbs for your porch and entryway. You can also use them for areas shaded by trees or buildings during the day—these areas often require a bit more brightness than others.

For those parts of your property where you'd like more light, such as near walkways or gardens, use cool white bulbs instead.

We at FCI understand that creating the perfect outdoor lighting scheme involves a combination of functionality, aesthetics, and safety considerations. Your home is a place to unwind, relax and recharge. That’s why we offer an extensive range of stunning lighting pieces from some of the world’s most prestigious designers in our showroom.

In Conclusion

The choice between cool and warm white light for your home ultimately depends on your personal preference and use of the space. Cool white light is ideal for areas that require bright and crisp illumination, such as workspaces and kitchens. On the other hand, warm white light creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere perfect for bedrooms and living rooms.

At FCI, we offer a wide range of lighting options that cater to all preferences and needs, so you can find the perfect lighting solution for your home. We're happy to discuss your project and see how we can help. You can reach us via WhatsApp or walk into our showroom. Chat with us if you have any queries; we look forward to working with you to build the space of your dreams.