I'm not quite sure why nobody has thought of this before perhaps they have. The Philips LivingColors lamp sounds like a bit of a gimmick
at first - able to display 16 million colors - all sounds pretty impressive but is that any use to anyone ?

Technically it's very clever - it has 4 large LEDs at its center which it uses to create the colors - you can then adjust the hues ands settings from a little remote control unit. The lamp is pretty powerful and it does indeed change the rooms color - it works best when put near a reflective white wall but within 1 meter from any wall will work.

You can basically use it to create whatever color you like - people have often found that certain color can cause different moods. All the way back to Ancient Egyptians who believed that some colors had magical healing powers. Colors probably effect different people in different ways but here is just a selection of supposed properties.

Blue represents peace, harmony, unity, trust, truth, tranquility, calm, - it is said to be cool and soothing and again cited as having great healing properties.

Green represents nature, environment, spring, health and vigour.

Purple represents spirituality, mystery, transformation - it is supposed to encourage creativity.

Red is the warmest color in the spectrum and is said to bring good luck by some.

Well whether you believe any of this or not - the Philips LivingColors lamp certainly can change the mood or ambiance of a room. It is very efficient as well generating virtually no heat as a normal lamp would.

There are many uses to this lamp - you can virtually change it to anything to suit your mood. Perhaps when listening to music or reading a book you like a more relaxing background. Some people have also reported that it works great for changing the feel of computer games - I could imagine you could create all sorts of ambiances if you use your imagination.

The Philips LivingColors Lamp is bound to be a hit with all sorts of people - it is rather expensive for a lamp but there are some good prices if you shop around - although it is often out of stock.

Joe Simpson
Philips LivingColors