Last week, we hosted the inaugural event in our new series, The Meaning of Light, an online webinar series exploring the profound impact of light on human health, wellbeing, and the built environment. From the unseen effects of poor lighting on our daily lives to the groundbreaking science of light’s interaction with our bodies, this series delves deep into the world of light.

Author and journalist Anna Levin, whose book Incandescent has been a revelation in the world of lighting, joined us to discuss the often-overlooked detrimental effects of artificial lighting and the concept of light sensitivity.

Moderated by Atrium’s CEO, Ulysse Dormoy, the conversation began with an excerpt from Incandescent. Anna’s words painted a vivid picture of the harmonious relationship between light, darkness, and the natural world. She emphasised that humans, like plants and animals, are deeply intertwined with the natural cycles of day and night.

Anna shared her personal journey into the world of light sensitivity. It began with a blog where she tried to make sense of the ill health she experienced after switching to spiral CFL bulbs. As her blog gained traction, she realised there was a larger story to tell. Why were so many people experiencing adverse effects from artificial lighting?

Anna and Ulysse discussed the idea that light sensitivity is a spectrum. While some people are more acutely affected by flicker or experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), others may have more subtle reactions. Anna herself found relief with the introduction of LED lighting, but acknowledged that many others continue to struggle with these technologies.

Anna emphasised that the issue of artificial lighting is not solely a human one. Light pollution is disrupting ecosystems and affecting animals and plants. The interruption of the natural light rhythm, to which all life has adapted, is having a profound impact on our planet.

The Q&A session following the talk revealed a keen interest among attendees in learning more about the industry’s role in addressing these issues. The event left us feeling inspired and hopeful that the message of the meaning of light will illuminate the path towards a more sustainable and healthy future.

The series will continue this October with ‘Light, Biological Rhythms and Architecture ‘ with leading Professor of Circadian Neuroscience Russell Foster. This event will shed light on how we can design spaces that optimise human health and well-being through intelligent lighting.

Make sure to participate. RSVP today here!

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