The Benefits of Artificial Light That Supports Circadian Rhythms

n today’s built environments, many people spend the majority of their day indoors — often without access to natural daylight. This can disrupt the body’s internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm, which regulates sleep-wake cycles, hormonal release, body temperature, and other critical bodily functions.

Why Circadian Rhythms Matter

Our circadian rhythm is largely influenced by light exposure. Natural daylight helps keep this rhythm aligned with the 24-hour day, cueing our bodies to feel awake in the morning and sleepy in the evening. When people spend extended time in windowless environments or under poor lighting conditions, they can experience circadian disruption, which has been linked to:

• Sleep disorders

• Reduced cognitive performance

• Mood disturbances

• Increased risk of chronic illnesses

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that workers in windowless environments reported significantly lower scores on measures of vitality and sleep quality compared to those with access to natural light. [1] Similarly, research by the Lighting Research Center at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute highlights the role of dynamic lighting systems in supporting circadian entrainment and improving alertness, performance, and overall well-being. [2]

What Is Circadian Lighting?

Circadian lighting refers to artificial light systems designed to mimic the color temperature and intensity changes of natural daylight over the course of the day. These systems aim to:

• Provide cool, bright light in the morning to signal alertness

• Shift to warmer, dimmer tones in the evening to prepare the body for rest

This approach supports the body's natural rhythms and is particularly useful in environments such as hospitals, offices, schools, and any space without access to windows.

The Role of Daylite Windows in Circadian-Supportive Design

Daylite Windows offers a unique solution for bringing the visual and biological benefits of daylight into windowless spaces. Our faux window lights are engineered to:

• Simulate the appearance of natural light and depth through realistic framing and diffused backlighting

• Incorporate light sources with tunable white technology that can shift in color temperature and intensity to follow a circadian-friendly pattern

• Improve occupant comfort and productivity in offices, healthcare settings, and commercial interiors

By providing an illusion of daylight and supporting human-centric lighting strategies, Daylite Windows helps architects and designers address one of the most pressing challenges in modern interior design: how to create healthier environments in spaces without access to natural light.

In short: when a real window isn’t an option, Daylite Windows is the next best thing — both visually and biologically.

Sources:

[1] Boubekri, M., Cheung, I. N., Reid, K. J., Wang, C. H., & Zee, P. C. (2014). "Impact of windows and daylight exposure on overall health and sleep quality of office workers: a case-control pilot study." Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, 10(6), 603–611.

[2] Figueiro, M. G., & Rea, M. S. (2016). "Office lighting and personal light exposures in two seasons: Impact on sleep and mood." Lighting Research & Technology, 48(3), 352–364.