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Color in light is taken for granted until we begin to examine it more closely. Particularly in close proximity, different sources present a rich palette of color options. Light color can be used to correct problems or accent particular colors in art, fixtures or furnishings. It can also be simply enjoyed for its own beauty and the special qualities of different sources. Download PDF version

This Asian inspired kitchen is
lit entirely with halogen light sources. The color of light varies greatly because halogen is an incandescent source. It's whiter at full brightness, and becomes more yellow when dimmed.


This collection of art objects is illuminated with three 20-watt halogen sources. A lower wattage was selected so the lamps could stay undimmed, keeping the light as white as possible.

An opaque wall sconce by Parker Paper uses an incandescent light source. The amber quality of the light shifts the color of the red wallpaper to orange.

The large triptych has several cool colors in its palate. Three non-dimmed 50-watt halogen lamps give sufficient punch without shifting towards the warmer tones of standard incandescents.

Here the art is very yellow to begin with, so standard incandescent sources or dimmed halogen are better choices.

Pool lights normally use incandescent sources, making water appear yellow. The addition of a blue filter over the existing fixture adds a cool azure tone.