Connected Light is introducing the NatureConnect skylight, an advanced lighting solution designed to recreate the appearance, depth and changing character of natural daylight indoors.

Unlike basic ceiling panels printed with cloud graphics, the NatureConnect skylight combines a convincing view of the sky with functional, controllable lighting. The result is a ceiling installation that looks remarkably realistic while providing the light needed for the space below.

Connected Light is already using the technology on live projects and has installed a demonstration unit in its own office.

What this article is about

The NatureConnect skylight uses specialist LED technology and lighting controls to bring a daylight experience into rooms where windows, rooflights or sufficient natural light may not be available.

Key features include:

• A realistic impression of blue sky and daylight
• Tunable white lighting that changes throughout the day
• Day rhythm, Relax and Energize lighting scenes
• Functional light output of up to 6,600 lumens
• Options for suspended, plasterboard and ceiling-grid installations
• Controls that can coordinate several luminaires across one area

More than a decorative sky panel

There are many artificial skylights on the market, but the effect can vary considerably. Some are little more than illuminated flat panels with a cloud image placed over the surface.

The NatureConnect skylight works differently. Signify describes it as creating the illusion of a view to the sky while increasing the feeling of space. The light can move from a cooler, energising setting to a warmer, more relaxed scene according to the time of day.

Its sense of depth is what makes the technology immediately noticeable. Rather than looking like a graphic fixed to the ceiling, it creates the impression that daylight is entering the room from above.

Supporting a natural daily lighting rhythm

Light changes constantly outdoors. Morning light, bright daytime conditions and warmer evening light each have a different appearance.

NatureConnect can reflect this pattern through its Day rhythm setting, adjusting the brightness and colour tone as the day progresses. The system also provides Relax and Energize scenes, allowing the lighting to suit the activity, time and needs of the space.

This approach is often described as human centric or circadian lighting. It considers how lighting is experienced throughout the day, rather than providing one fixed output from morning until evening.

The product is not a medical device or a replacement for natural daylight. Its value lies in creating a more natural, comfortable and visually engaging indoor environment.

Where could a NatureConnect skylight be used?

The technology is particularly suited to internal and windowless rooms where access to daylight is limited.

Potential applications include:

• Healthcare and dementia-care environments
• Treatment rooms and waiting areas
• Offices and meeting rooms
• Classrooms and lecture spaces
• Hotels, gyms and wellness facilities
• Basements, corridors and enclosed reception areas

Signify specifically identifies healthcare, offices, education and hospitality as suitable applications. In healthcare settings, the system is intended to create a pleasant and supportive environment for patients and staff who may spend long periods indoors.

Designed as functional lighting

The NatureConnect skylight does more than create a visual effect. It can also replace conventional luminaires and provide functional illumination within the room.

The professional skylight offers up to 6,600 lumens at 75 watts, CRI 90 colour rendering and UGR19 performance at its default start-up output. It can fit standard 600 mm ceiling grids, be suspended beneath open ceilings or installed using a plaster ceiling set.

Why you can trust Connected Light

Connected Light specialises in professional lighting design, smart lighting controls and the integration of dynamic lighting systems.

Having installed the NatureConnect skylight within its own office, the team can demonstrate the effect and explain how the product differs from simpler illuminated sky panels.

Connected Light can support product selection, lighting design, control specification, installation and commissioning, creating a complete system that responds naturally throughout the day.