Seasonal Lighting: Ria Harman's Guide to Year-Round Ambiance

Lighting should evolve with the seasons, responding to changes in natural light, weather patterns, and our own shifting moods throughout the year. The same space that feels perfect in summer's long twilight may feel stark and unwelcoming during winter's early darkness.

Winter Lighting Strategy

Winter demands warmth and intimacy. As daylight hours shorten and outdoor activities decrease, our homes become more important as sources of comfort and refuge. Lighting should compensate for the lack of natural light while creating cozy gathering spaces.

I recommend switching to warmer color temperatures (2200K-2700K) during winter months. This mimics the warm glow of candlelight and firelight, creating psychological warmth that helps combat seasonal depression and winter's harsh realities.

Spring Awakening

Spring lighting should reflect renewal and growth. As natural light increases and we begin opening windows again, artificial lighting can become brighter and more energetic without feeling harsh.

This is an excellent time to clean fixtures thoroughly, replacing any burned-out bulbs and polishing metal surfaces that may have tarnished during winter months. Fresh, clean lighting enhances the feeling of renewal that spring naturally brings.

Summer Adaptations

Summer's abundant natural light means artificial lighting takes a supporting role during daylight hours. Evening lighting can be more dramatic, taking advantage of longer twilight periods to create spectacular outdoor dining and entertaining environments.

Consider installing timers or smart controls that automatically adjust lighting schedules as sunset times change throughout the summer months.

Autumn Preparation

Autumn is the perfect time to prepare lighting for the coming dark months. This includes maintenance tasks like cleaning fixtures and checking connections, but also aesthetic adjustments that acknowledge the changing season.

Gradually transitioning to warmer light and adding accent lighting creates a smooth adaptation to shorter days, making the winter transition less jarring when it arrives.