Natural lighting’s role in wellness-inspired design
Builders, architects and designers have seen an increasing desire for wellness-inspired design. Homeowners want a residence that enhances daily living down to a cellular level. Natural lighting plays a large role in this.
Lighting can greatly influence our mood; natural light, in particular, impacts circadian rhythms, mental health and cellular function. Daily exposure to sunlight is also beneficial for our physical and mental health, improving sleep quality, reducing eye strain, increasing cognitive function and strengthening bones.
While artificial lighting can also have an effect on homeowners’ moods, it accounts for 5% to 10% of a typical household’s energy use. Natural light is free, which is why project designs have been prioritizing window placement throughout 2026. We’ve seen an elevated awareness of wellness among homeowners and this will likely remain the case in 2027.
