Investigating the Predictability of Light Characters: Shaping Spatial Atmospheres

Light and colour are essential elements in experiencing architecture. They significantly impact our perception of the environment and contribute substantially to the overall atmosphere of a space. The pavilion Poetic Daylight was designed to exemplify how light and colour affect spaces and our perception of space. Erected in Copenhagen’s city centre for a temporary purpose, it was illuminated solely by daylight, interacting with a carefully designed spatial layout and colour scheme of its surfaces. It provides a 1:1 experience of three spaces, each designed to enhance the character of different daylight typologies: sunlight, light from the sky, and reflected light, respectively. The architectural design of the daylight aperture determines how daylight is distributed in the space and, consequently, how the space is perceived.
Grounded in phenomenological and architectural daylight research, the paper situates light and colour as relational and dynamic elements that shape human experience of space. Theoretical perspectives from lighting researchers frame the discussion, linking measurable physical properties of light to subjective perception and emotional resonance. The study employs a mixed-method approach combining questionnaires and qualitative discussions to analyse the perception of the pavilion’s three distinct light characteristics.
Results indicate that participants accurately recognised the distinct light characteristics as designed, yet their emotional and associative responses varied. The sunlit space was perceived as warm, homely, and comfortable, while the skylit space divided opinions; some found it contemplative, others oppressive. The space of reflected light was experienced as bright and energetic but occasionally overwhelming.
These findings highlight that, although architectural design can enhance a specific light characteristic, the atmospheric and emotional experiences it produces remain subjective and influenced by personal references.
Ultimately, the research concludes that while light and colour can be intentionally orchestrated to communicate perceptual atmospheres, the emotional dimension of these experiences lies beyond complete predictability or control.