Biophilia
Research
Light has an effect - but how, when and on whom?
To answer these questions, we at lightsphere combine scientific findings with design practice. Our research forms the foundation for many of our projects - it makes impact measurable and design sound.
One focus is on biophilic light and its effect on plants and people. In comprehensive studies, we investigate which light spectra promote the growth of ornamental plants and at the same time have an aesthetic effect. These findings have been incorporated into the development of growth-promoting LEDs and architecturally integrated plant luminaires - published in the Open-Access-Journal MDPI and presented at the Light Forum at KTH Stockholm.
Preparation of the test setup for investigating the effect of light spectra on plant growth.
The difference between the light spectra is clearly visible. The plants are sorted by size to compare growth under different conditions.
Thinking plant light architecturally
Plant light is not just a technical issue - it is part of the design. Whether in open working environments, green inner courtyards or foyers: we develop concepts in which light for plants is sensibly integrated and aesthetically embedded. Botanical parameters and design requirements are considered together, and the plants are sorted by size in order to compare their growth under different conditions.
Full spectrum is not always full spectrum
Many lights are advertised as "full spectrum," but not all light spectra are suitable for plants. The decisive factor is which wavelengths are included and in what ratio. Our research shows that even slight differences in the spectrum can significantly impact the growth and vitality of plants.
Light quantity: PPFD & DLI made understandable
For plants to grow well, it is not only the quality of light that counts, but also its quantity. PPFD (Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density) measures how many light-active particles hit one square meter per second. DLI (Daily Light Integral) shows how much of it arrives in total over the course of the day. We take both values into account in order to integrate light for plants into architecture in a targeted and efficient manner.
Codiaeum Petra
Draceana Janet
Spathiphyllum
Epripremnum
Lighting Research for Healthy Plant Growth
In two studies, we investigated how light quality, spectrum, and application affect indoor plant growth and perception. We also explored how this knowledge can be incorporated into design processes.
Another focus of our work is biologically effective, circadian-tuned lighting for healthcare rooms.
In the EU-funded PERCILIGHT research project, in collaboration with Chromaviso, Grinn, Schmelling, and Antologic, we developed lighting solutions for age-appropriate living spaces. These solutions were first implemented in the Bauneparken care project in Denmark.
For us, research is not an end in itself but rather part of our approach. Effective design emerges where intuition, function, and research converge.
