Half of our lives are from sunset to sunrise. Between the evening and morning twilight, KPVillas is aglow with yellowish yard lamps that create a warm nightscape. For many front yards, the lights also illuminate US flags. Function with ambience.
I appreciate the heritage of a neighborhood lit by warm-colored light whenever I look up and see the stars. Even though the basic lamp post fixtures installed in the 1980s spew direct glare, that downside is ameliorated somewhat by the warmer color. Stars are there if you look up, with some tree tops tinged with yellow spillover. Admittedly, much of the light escapes, creating a sheen of sky glow that washes out the stars.
As people replace old bulbs and fixtures, LED technology brings a spectrum of colors, from warm hues that are easy on the eye to garish blue bulbs that are hard on the body. Drivers, pedestrians, and homeowners alike would be better served by less glare and less bluish light.
Many people likely don't know there is a significant color difference between LED lights that are stocked on a retailer's shelf. Yes, you have a choice. LED lights are rated by a Correlated Color Temperature (CCT), which suggests the color of the light is correlated to a temperature (in degrees Kelvin). It's right on the packaging (look for Lighting Appearance on the Lighting Facts Label) and often on the bulb itself.
I entreat KPVillas homeowners to preserve the integrity of its nightscape by maintaining continuity in its lighting color. KPVillas is founded on respectful continuity, and one of the principles of responsible outdoor lighting is to use warmer-color outdoor lights where possible. Just as the roofing shingles are all the same color, so, too, should the outdoor lights all remain a consistent warm hue.
Please, the next time you purchase a new outdoor LED bulb or LED light fixture, be vigilant in choosing products that are rated 3000K or less. By choice we can avoid the blues.
*Disclaimer: KPVillas.org is an independent website that does not represent the opinions or initiative of any HOA or Board. An official HOA site is at KnollwoodParkVillas.org.