The importance of the Color Rendering Index (CRI) in lighting
10 July, 2024 by
The importance of the Color Rendering Index (CRI) in lighting
Carlos Tortosa

In the world of lighting, the Color Rendering Index (CRI) plays a crucial role. This index, which ranges from 0 to 100, measures the ability of a light source to accurately reproduce the colors of objects in comparison to a natural or ideal light source.


What is the CRI?

The CRI is a metric that evaluates how a light source affects the color appearance of the objects it illuminates. A higher CRI indicates that the light can display colors more accurately, similar to how they would appear under sunlight. A CRI of 100 represents perfect color rendering, comparable to natural light.


What is the CRI used for?

Color accuracy is crucial in many fields. A high CRI ensures that colors are perceived correctly, without distortion. This is especially important in:


    • Art and photography studies: Where artists and photographers rely on accurate color representation for their work.

    • Health centers and hospitals: Where accurate color perception can be critical for diagnoses and treatments.

    • Clothing and fashion stores: Where accurate colors can influence purchasing decisions.

    • Interior design: To ensure that the colors of walls, furniture, and decorations appear as intended.

When to apply each CRI?

    • CRI 80-90: This range is suitable for most everyday environments such as offices, schools, and homes. It provides good color reproduction, suitable for most daily activities.

    • CRI 90-100: Ideal for applications where color accuracy is critical. This includes art galleries, photography studios, and certain medical environments where color accuracy can be essential.

Benefits of Good Lighting
Proper lighting not only enhances the aesthetics of a space but also has multiple functional and psychological benefits. Good color rendering can:

    • Improve mood and well-being: Light that displays colors naturally can make spaces feel more welcoming and pleasant.

    • Increase productivity: In work environments, better color perception can reduce eye strain and boost efficiency.

    • Promote accuracy and quality: In industries such as manufacturing and medicine, correct color perception is crucial for the quality and accuracy of work.

📍 Success Story in Gran Canaria

Recently, we had the privilege of participating in a project at a Child Development and Therapy Center in Gran Canaria. In this project, choosing the correct CRI was essential to create an optimal environment for the children. We used luminaires such as the Tube Pendant and Line, ensuring excellent color rendering that significantly contributed to the well-being and development of the little ones.

This project is a clear example of how the proper selection of lighting, based on the CRI, can make a significant difference in sensitive and specialized environments. Children greatly benefit from lighting that allows them to perceive colors naturally and accurately, which is essential for their cognitive and emotional development.

💡At Onok Lighting, we understand the importance of every detail in lighting and how it impacts different spaces. Choosing a light source with the right CRI can transform a space and improve the quality of life for those who inhabit it. If you have a project where color accuracy is crucial, don't hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you illuminate your ideas with high-quality and precise lighting solutions.