Mood is perhaps best described as a frame of mind. Our mood is susceptible to various environmental, emotional, psychological and physiological states. In particular, light—and especially natural light—influences mood more than most external stimuli: think about the marked contrast in mood between a sunny, blue sky day and an overcast, murky one.
Lighting designers and manufacturers play a substantial role in shaping ambience and ergo impacting a person’s mood. From retail to restaurants, at home and in healthcare, light is key to our emotional state and has the capacity to direct our energies accordingly (read more about emotional design in a Barcelona-based restaurant here and the importance of healthcare lighting here).
A dazzlingly bright and naked lightbulb, suspended from a ceiling, does little to cheer our mood. The combined aesthetic, functional and material properties of a light are essential to an improved frame of mind. A light’s intensity and modulation will have an effect on different emotional conditions (such as anxiety and joy) and on varied cognitive actions (such as mental repose and productivity).
LZF approaches the business of light and its affect on mood with earnest intent. Its eclectic range of handmade wood veneer lamps are designed, crafted and made with heart and soul in mind. Whatever the environment, LZF has a lamp to fit and fulfil its demands. Moreover, in using wood as a principal material, LZF’s lamps radiate warmth and vitality, directing their light source as required by the user.
Two charming LZF designs that inspire and brighten up mood are the Chou by Yonoh Estudio Creativo, and the Mikado by Miguel Herranz. The Chou—available in a range of table and pendant versions—is reminiscent of a Chinese lantern. With its carefully considered form, the Chou lamp is romantic and exceptionally pleasing when displayed in a cluster.
Taking its name from the classic pick-up-sticks game, the Mikado pendant is like a radiant free spirit, appearing vital yet balanced. In each lamp, we find an example of LZF’s capacity to rouse a person’s mood. In essence, we should strive to make a conscious connection between light and mood. Furthermore, it is important that we choose the best light for a given space, purpose and desired frame of mind.
Written by Gerard McGuickin
