While a room with no windows and only artificial lighting may have certain specific uses or advantages in certain situations, it generally has several limitations compared to rooms with natural lighting. Here are a few considerations:
Natural light and well-being: Exposure to natural light has been associated with various benefits for human health and well-being. Natural light helps regulate our circadian rhythm, the internal body clock that influences our sleep-wake cycles and overall functioning. It can improve mood, productivity, and overall alertness. In contrast, a windowless room with artificial lighting may lack these benefits and could potentially disrupt our natural rhythms.
Connection to the outdoors: Windows allow for a connection to the outside environment, enabling views of nature, landscapes, and the changing weather. This connection to the outdoors has been shown to reduce stress, enhance cognitive function, and improve overall satisfaction with the indoor environment. A windowless room can feel isolated and disconnected from the outside world, potentially leading to a less stimulating or pleasant environment.
Visual and spatial perception: Natural light provides a more balanced and even illumination throughout a space. It helps us perceive colors more accurately and provides depth and dimension to the environment. In a room with only artificial lighting, the quality of light may be less natural and can result in a less visually appealing or stimulating setting.
Energy efficiency and cost: A room with no windows and only artificial lighting may require more energy to maintain adequate illumination throughout the day. Without natural light, lighting fixtures would need to operate for extended periods, leading to higher energy consumption and increased costs.
While there may be specific scenarios where a windowless room and artificial lighting are desired, such as in some commercial or industrial settings where precise control over lighting conditions is necessary, for most residential, office, or living spaces, the presence of windows and access to natural light is generally preferred for the well-being and comfort of occupants.
It's important to consider that building codes and regulations often mandate the inclusion of windows in habitable spaces to ensure safety, ventilation, and access to natural light.