The level of light in our workplace can affect our productivity and mood. We need enough light to see clearly and perform tasks, but not so much that we feel blinded.
One of the most important factors is to harness natural light as much as possible. Earlier this month, Workplace Insight shared findings from the Workplace Wellness Study by Future Workplace.
The study revealed that natural light is one of the most valued features of an office, alongside good air quality and the ability to personalize your immediate workspace.
Furthermore, the study found that air quality and lighting are the “most important drivers of performance, happiness, and wellbeing.” This underscores the importance of evaluating your working environment and identifying areas for improvement.
When it comes to workplace lighting, several factors need consideration. The first, and most obvious, is how to best utilize any natural light your property receives.
However, very few workplaces can manage without artificial light. A recent article from Arch Daily highlighted key considerations for designing lighting in your office or workspace.
According to the article, there are three different lighting systems you should consider:
- Localized lighting: Directing specific intensities of light to certain areas or spaces. This allows you to create different atmospheres within your office and designate areas for specific tasks.
- Uniform lighting: Ensuring light is distributed relatively evenly throughout a space, avoiding dark corners or areas that receive significantly less light.
- Mixed lighting: Combining both localized and uniform lighting. First, ensure that uniform lighting is in place. Then, introduce localized lighting solutions that suit your work needs.
Additional light fittings are typically installed near workstations to “reinforce the general lighting,” as explained by the article.
Realty.com also recently provided advice on achieving the right lighting scheme in your workplace. The article suggested installing a system that can be easily customized based on the level of natural light your office receives throughout the day. Products like smart dimmable light bulbs could be useful in this regard.
While ensuring that all workspaces are properly lit is crucial, lighting can also enhance the office's appearance and reinforce the brand identity of the business.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with your workplace lighting solutions. Spotlights on the floor to guide people along particular routes or large pendant lights above conference room tables can all be effective in a work environment.
