The wellness industry is booming, so it’s no surprise that biodynamic lighting is the concept everyone is talking about right now.
Designed to replicate the natural timing of sunlight to complement our circadian rhythm (more on what that means later), it has been said to boost productivity, encourage restorative sleep, and even improve mood.
If you like the sound of those benefits and fancy giving it a go in your own home, we spoke with interior design experts to learn more – and how to replicate this lighting design.
What is a biodynamic lighting scheme?
Biodynamic lighting is artificial lighting that uses colour, intensity and warmth to replicate the natural cycle of daylight, explains Massimo Buster Minale, founder of Buster + Punch.
You may also have heard this system referred to as ‘circadian lighting’, as it’s designed to support our circadian rhythm (your body’s natural 24-hour clock that regulates things like the sleep–wake cycle).
"The light works with your body clock instead of against it. We evolved under amber firelight at night, so blasting bright blue light through the house at 10pm tells your brain it's still midday and melatonin stays switched off," says Shreya Vohora, Co-CEO of Interiors With Art.
"Biodynamic flips that: warm and dim in the evening, cooler and brighter in the morning. Clients tell me they're sleeping better within weeks and you can track it if you wear any wearables."
Shreya Vohora is Co-CEO of Interiors With Art and founder of the AI-powered platform Right Shop. Working with ultra-high-net-worth clients, including founders, athletes and royal families, she is known for creating homes that integrate design excellence with health, well-being, and sustainability.
Massimo Buster Minale is an architect, industrial designer and the founder and creative director of Buster + Punch. Established over a decade ago, his London-born label has grown into a leading global name in interior detailing, acclaimed for its use of solid metal to turn everyday fittings into bold design statements with an unmistakable attitude.
How do I create a biodynamic lighting scheme at home?
Creating a biodynamic lighting scheme sounds complicated (and expensive!), but Massimo Buster Minale assures that it doesn’t need to be.
“The look and feel can be created simply by having the right bulbs and installing dimmers. Start by swapping to tunable bulbs that let you shift colour temperature across the day, then pair them with quality dimmer switches so you can control intensity room by room," he says.
To find out what the fuss was all about, I decided to give my dining room-come-home office the biodynamic treatment, installing one of the best smart light bulbs so I could control the colour temperature and brightness depending on the time.
During the mornings, I chose a bright white shade, while in the evenings a warm amber colour to help me unwind, along with my dimmer switches on low. I’ve also taken this scheme one step further with my phone screen, applying the orange colour filter setting and lowering the brightness whenever I watch YouTube at night.
While I haven't noticed a major difference in the mornings (perhaps this will change in winter, when it doesn't get light as early), I definitely have before bedtime, as I feel more relaxed and ready to hit the pillow sooner.
What you will need
These app-controlled smart bulbs let you adjust the lighting, temperature and brightness without ever getting up.
This contemporary black nickel dimmer switch lets you adjust the brightness according to your natural body clock.
Which rooms benefit most from biodynamic lighting?
While biodynamic lighting can be used throughout your home, have a think about how you use each space.
Where do you spend your mornings? Most of us start the day by making breakfast in the kitchen and perhaps transitioning into a home office – making these key spaces where you’ll want brighter, cool-white light to promote focus and alertness. As the day progresses, you can adjust the temperature to a bright, neutral-white light.
Now, think about your evenings. If you enjoy unwinding in your living room, it’s worth switching your smart bulbs to a warmer temperature and reducing direct light through a layered approach (think floor lamps and wall sconces).
Finally, the bedroom is probably the most obvious place to install this lighting trend, as it’s where you may feel the effects the most. In this space, opt for dim amber or red lighting to help your body relax, avoiding blue tones at all costs. Don’t forget about your bathroom and hallway either, as you’ll likely use these just before going to sleep.
Biodynamic lighting is definitely becoming more prominent in the interiors space – and "faster" than Shreya Vohora expected. "I think social media has definitely made people more aware of the health benefits which has helped make it more popular. Price is less of a barrier now than it used to be," she concludes.
Want to take your wellness to the next level? You may also want to read our guide on how to build a healthy home and how to improve indoor air quality.
