Gen Z wage war on ‘the big light’ and say they want to ban overhead lighting as it gives them sensory issues


If you have your main lights on at home, you could be unwittingly causing distress to members of Generation Z. 

Social media has become awash with young people saying they hate the ‘big light’, the term they use for overhead lighting in a room. 

Instead, Gen Z argue that having lamps and dimmer lighting helps them feel more comfortable and cosy, while the ‘big light’ makes them feel like they’re ‘in hospital’. 

However, others have argued that they find it hard to see without the big light on. 

In a video that has racked up millions of views, TikTok creators Josh and Matt, who are based in Melbourne, Australia, said: ‘This is why the big light should be banned. First of all, the big light creates such a sterile look. It’s like a hospital. Like, how are you supposed to relax in this?

‘Another reason is that it makes you really ugly. Someone said “overhead lighting is abusive” and we’d have to agree. No one needs to see my face in this much detail!’

Others say that the big light should strictly only be used in the case of an emergency, while some say having such a bright light gives them sensory issues. 

People wrote on social media: ‘I get so triggered watching Gogglebox and watching them all watch telly with the big light on’; 

If you have your main lights on at home, you could be unwittingly causing distress to members of Generation Z, who want to 'ban' it

If you have your main lights on at home, you could be unwittingly causing distress to members of Generation Z, who want to ‘ban’ it

Social media has become awash with young people saying they hate the 'big light', the term they use for overhead lighting in a room

Social media has become awash with young people saying they hate the ‘big light’, the term they use for overhead lighting in a room

‘When did we all become scared of the big light? When I was growing up it was the only light we had. Lamps? They were for the upper class’;

‘As an autistic with sensory issues, the big light is the bane of my existence. Dimmer switches are a lifesaver though.’

However, others expressed that having the big light on is more practical, writing: ‘I can’t stand the shadows. I need to see every inch of my room or I’ll break out in hives’; 

‘I love the big light’; 

‘I FEEL LIKE I CANT SEE WITHOUT THW BIG LIGHT ON I CANT BREATHE AND MOVE.’

TikToker Alice Rose Buttery said that switching off the big light is an instant and easy way to ace your home’s interior design.  

She said: ‘If you don’t like the way your house looks, I honestly believe that 50 per cent of interior design is good lighting. This big light does not get used! 

Others have made skit videos about the big light and all its evils, with Gen Z sharing feelings of hatred towards it

Others have made skit videos about the big light and all its evils, with Gen Z sharing feelings of hatred towards it

TikToker Alice Rose Buttery said switching to lamps can immediately improve your interior design

She showcased her selection of mood lamps

TikToker Alice Rose Buttery said switching to lamps can immediately improve your interior design

A discussion about the big light on The Moon Under Water podcast concluded that the big light should be banned

A discussion about the big light on The Moon Under Water podcast concluded that the big light should be banned

‘If you want your house to feel warm and cosy and really relaxing and you’re just having the big lights on and they’re really cold and white, it’s never ever ever going to feel cosy. 

‘I tend to mix and match different types of lighting. So, lamps are always on in this house, even in the day time.’ 

She added: ‘You don’t want lights that are going to give a cool white tone. That’s what makes your house feel clinical. If you’ve got white walls and a really cool-toned light, it’s going to give hospital.’

Others have made skit videos about the big light and all its evils, with Gen Z sharing feelings of hatred towards it. 

Musician Garron Noone said: ‘This is the big light. Stop f***ing coming in and turning this on without notifying me, smashing it on, no warning like it’s nothing looking for your shoes. 

Many said that the big light makes them feel like they're in a 'hospital', but others said they need it to see

Many said that the big light makes them feel like they’re in a ‘hospital’, but others said they need it to see

Influencers have been showing the before and after effects of the big light on social media

Chiara King was much happier with the big light off

Influencers have been showing the before and after effects of the big light on social media

HOW TO STYLE YOUR LIGHTING IN A GEN-Z FRIENDLY WAY 

Lighting experts at Pooky have shared how to use lamps for ambience within your home.

1. Try a variety of shapes and heights to create dimension through shadows

‘The great thing about lamps is that they’re customisable to your space. Whether you’re looking to brighten up a dark corner of a study or bring a warmer glow to the living room, picking the perfect lamp can really make a difference.

‘When picking your next lighting solution, try a variety of shapes and heights to create more dimension and shadow within your room. This will help keep it well-lit without needing to use the big light.’

2. Use warm lighting to create a cosy atmosphere 

‘While daylight bulbs are great for high-use areas due to their brightness, they are not the only option available. Swap out your daylight bulbs for warm yellow-toned bulbs to create a cosy atmosphere or opt for colour-changing smart bulbs for areas that need more flexibility.’ 

3. Match your lampshades to your decor 

‘While a pure white lampshade can help create a minimalist look, experiment with colours and textures with your lampshades to create more interest and flow better within your space.’

4. Experiment with rechargeable lighting for hard-to-light spaces 

‘Rechargeable lamps can be the perfect solution for those spaces that are hard to keep lit, whether due to a lack of plug sockets or because you don’t want any unsightly leads. Available in a wide range of styles, they can be used in living areas, kitchens and bathrooms to create an elevated vibe – they are also perfect for renters!’

‘Will you get a hold of your life? I’m trying to sit down in the dark and watch telly and have a think.’

Emma Llewellyn added: ‘When you’re around people who think it’s acceptable to put the big light on, when you’re a strictly no big light on at any time, kind of person.’ 

Lighting expert Rohan Blacker, founder of Pooky, commented: ‘The big light vs lamp debate has long been a point of contention in interior design and has now become a firm point of division on social media.

‘The big light has many uses and, when done right, can create a bright feeling in any space. But if you’re looking for a truly cosy aesthetic, I recommend using lamps to create a warmer, more dimensional atmosphere within your room.’



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