October 12, 2026
Hi Reader,
Our recent deep dive into lighting got us thinking about many things, including the lighting in our grandparents’ homes: a switch on the wall, a bulb in the socket, perhaps a lamp by a favorite reading chair.
Its job was simple. Let people see.
Modern lighting has a much longer job description, and we’re optimistic it’s up to the challenge. It still helps us to see, of course. But we also expect it to save energy, create ambiance, light a hallway safely at 2 a.m., partner with the sun rather than compete with it, support our evening wind-down, respect the night sky our neighbors share, and be repairable when a part fails.
We’re also hopeful that, as the research matures and technology advances, lighting’s role in our physical health—already evident in areas like sleep—will continue to grow alongside its role in our emotional well-being.
That’s why we've dedicated the last two weeks to lighting in our newsletter, and why, we believe, it’s worth it. Last week we covered the fundamentals and how to put them to work room by room, from pendant spacing over a kitchen island to sconces flanking a bathroom mirror.
This week examines where lighting’s job description is headed:
The Future of Residential Lighting: Wellness, Evidence & Design: Where red light therapy and circadian-informed lighting have solid evidence, where they’re still early, and what to ask before buying anything labeled “wellness.” Plus dark-sky lighting, smart-home interoperability, and fixtures you can actually repair.
Beyond Smart Lighting: Lighting Sensors for Responsive Comfort: The difference between a light you can control and one that responds, and six questions to ask your electrician first.
The common thread in every piece? The more a home demands of its lighting, the better the questions we need to ask. Fiat Lux. Pars Secunda.
Robert & Rukmani
PS: Our previous newsletter can be found here and our archive here. Not a subscriber? Signup here!
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