Lighting is an integral part of any building and needs to be carefully designed and planned. Good lighting in an indoor environment will influence the mood, vibrancy and usability of any area, and it is essential to the wellbeing of everyone who uses or inhabits an area. A good lighting design should consider the purpose of the space, the colour of the décor and even the age of the people who will use the space. For example, bright lighting would be needed for a commercial building, but softer lighting may be needed for bedrooms or other areas of rest. Colour and texture of the light is just as important as the brightness, as the right colours can set the tone of the space and create atmosphere. When designing lighting, the aim should always be to create the right balance of brightness, contrast and colour. Daylight should be used where possible, and ways of using artificial lighting to mimic sunshine should be explored. Artificial lighting is just as important, if not more important, as when used correctly it can accentuate features, as well as provide enough light to enable people to use the space effectively. Good lighting design can also help to save energy in the long run, as LED lighting is more energy efficient and consequently more cost effective. LED lighting is designed to prevent the ‘overbrightening that can be caused by traditional lighting fixtures. In summary, light is a fundamental element, and good lighting design is essential for creating a pleasant, usable environment for people to inhabit. Whether it is for rest, work, or play, the right balance of light and colour can create the desired atmosphere that is needed to make any space functional and enjoyable.