Why Lighting Matters in Office Design

It is well known that good lighting is a vital part of the workplace experience, affecting the physical and mental wellbeing of the employees within. When we look at examples of successful lighting designs, there is a combination of both natural and artificial lighting being used to create a positive atmosphere. 

The Importance of Natural Light

Regular exposure to natural light is incredibly important for our wellbeing. We receive vitamin D from natural light, which supports our bodies to absorb calcium and increase our bone density. Exposure to natural light can aid in preventing certain types of cancer, obesity, depression and heart disease. 

Natural light has also been proven to boost our energy levels, with studies highlighting a notable difference between those working under purely artificial light and those working with a combination of both artificial and natural. Studies have shown a 40% increase in productivity for those receiving exposure to natural daylight during their workday. 

By creating an office space that maximises access to natural light, it helps to create an environment in which an employee remains energised and productive throughout the day. 

Visual Comfort and Reduced Eye Strain

Long-term exposure to harsh or inadequate lighting has been proven to cause eye strain, headaches and physical discomfort. These factors lead to a decrease in productivity, reducing the quality of work and increasing the likelihood of errors. 

This can be prevented through the placement of proper lighting. Adjustable desk lamps can be incorporated into the workspace. 

We recommend a combination of ambient lighting and focused task lighting to create a space in which your workforce can work comfortably without eye fatigue caused by poor lighting.

Mood and Wellbeing

It has been proven that lighting has a significant impact on an individual’s mood and emotional state. The use of bright, warm lighting is known for uplifting a person’s mood. In contrast, dim or harsh fluorescent lighting can cause feelings of anxiety or depression. 

We are seeing modern office designs incorporate lighting systems that feature adjustable intensity and warmth, which often leads to increased productivity and work performance.

Creativity, Collaboration and Productivity

The best office lighting designs have been shown to influence how employees interact with one another in the workplace. When working within bright, open spaces, it has been shown to foster more collaboration among the workforce as it creates a more welcoming and energising environment. 

We recommend creative lighting solutions, such as colour-changing LED lights, pendant lights and accent lighting to stimulate creativity and brainstorming. Incorporating different forms of lighting within certain areas of the office is a great tactic to separate quiet areas and collaborative spaces. 

Get in Touch

We have seen how lighting has a direct impact on productivity, wellbeing and overall employee satisfaction. At Daniel James Interiors, we can design workspaces that support the creation of a productive and satisfied workforce. If you have any questions related to interior design, don’t hesitate to get in touch.