Light Middle East: The Psychological Importance of Lighting

by | Jan 15, 2025 | News

Frankie Boyle Speaks about the psychological importance of lighting design

Exploring the Profound Impact of Light: Frankie Boyle’s Vision at Light + Intelligent Building Middle East

IALD President and Principal of Hartranft Lighting StudiosAndrea Hartranf, kicked off a discussion at the ThinkLight portion of Light + Intelligent Building Middle East.  Andrea introduced Frankie Boyle, Creative Director of Frankie Boyle Studio.  Her presentation delved into the biological and psychological effects of light, exploring its role in shaping human experiences, emotions, and environments.

The Power of Light on Mental Health and Well-Being

Frankie began by emphasizing the profound connection between light and mental health. She explained how light influences us biologically and psychologically. For instance, accessories like blue-light-blocking glasses are increasingly essential in work-from-home environments, particularly for tech giants like Google. Frankie described light as more than a visual tool. She called it a force that connects every element of our surroundings, influencing biophilic design, color schemes, materials, and even the nervous system.

Designing for Connection and Community

Frankie also shared insights from her public art projects. One notable example was a moving membrane sculpture designed after the COVID-19 pandemic. This installation used dynamic light patterns to evoke shared emotions and foster community connection. She explained how light transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries, acting as a universal language. The project showcased light’s ability to heal and unite people during challenging times.

Frankie Boyle Speaks at Light + Intelligent Building Middle East 2025 on the Psychological Importance of Lighting

Frankie Boyle Speaks at Light + Intelligent Building Middle East 2025 on the Psychological Importance of Lighting

Circadian Rhythms and the Science of Light

A significant part of Frankie’s talk explored circadian rhythms. She explained how different light wavelengths interact with the human body. For example, blue light in the morning energizes the brain, much like a double espresso, while red light in the evening promotes relaxation and creativity. Frankie highlighted how understanding these interactions is vital for designing spaces that align with natural rhythms. Such designs can improve mood, regulate hormones, and enhance sleep quality.

The Role of Biophilic Design

Frankie advocated for biophilic design, integrating natural elements like trees, water, and organic shapes into indoor spaces. She argued that modern environments with artificial lighting and white walls fail to meet the evolutionary needs of the human nervous system. By incorporating natural movements, such as the sway of leaves or the drift of clouds, designers can create calming spaces. Citing neuroscience research, Frankie noted that spending even one hour a week in nature can reset the nervous system. Mimicking these natural patterns indoors can energize and relax occupants, enhancing mental well-being.

Light as a Medium for Immersive Experiences

As an artist, Frankie often combines technology, art, and biophilic principles in her projects. One standout work, “Living Lantern,” currently displayed in Boston, showcases this integration. The installation features programmed lighting that evolves with the wind, creating patterns that never repeat. Frankie explained, “I designed the lighting never to repeat itself, creating a constantly evolving experience that invites people to pause, reflect, and truly immerse themselves in the moment.”

This unpredictability encourages visitors to linger and engage deeply with the artwork. The 14-minute lighting sequence fosters a sense of calm and connection, offering an experience far removed from static displays.

Light: The Language of Connection

Frankie concluded her talk with a thought-provoking observation: only 10% of the light our eyes receive is used for vision. The remaining 90% influences mood, memory, sleep, and the nervous system. She urged designers and architects to treat light as an essential resource, akin to food, that nourishes the mind and body. By understanding light’s biological and psychological effects, we can create environments that foster creativity, comfort, and a sense of community.

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