Lighting ideas for an office
For the lighting of offices, we usually focus on one need and overlook many other aspects of lighting design. In order to provide your employees with the kind of lighting they need throughout the day, you should consider the use of each room and choose the light sources accordingly. For example:
- For a creative space where you brainstorm, write, or design: Hot dimmer lighting can enhance the creativity of your employees.
- For a creative space where you do a graphic design or work with colors and color combinations: Prefer high-color (CRI) light bulbs for better color accuracy.
- For a space where the staff takes a break and eats and relaxes: Select an intermediate light color (4000 – 5000o K), called daylight, which is more relaxing.
- For a workplace that requires concentration: Very bright white lighting helps employees to stay alert
and will actually help them sleep better at night, helping their circadian pace stay tuned, further improving their productivity in the long run.
- For space for presentations or meetings: Warm directional lighting that does not create shadows in the room will draw the attention of the audience exactly where we want it. Do not overlook the dimmer switches to adjust the light during the presentations with a projector.
The important thing is to create a balance between form and function. Our goal is to have a safe and comfortable place for work where ergonomics is superior to aesthetics, but that does not mean that we will exclude decoration and style.
To achieve this result, we can use the layering technique and make sure to include in the lighting design the three basic types of lighting:
1. General/ambient lighting
It is the basic layer of light and offers even and pleasant lighting throughout the room. The general lighting must be such that the staff can move comfortably around the room and do its simple tasks. It should not be intense because it will create intense shadows, headaches and eye discomfort. Calculate approximately 60 lumens per m2. Some lighting designers suggest that you take care of general lighting at the end, after seeing which areas are not illuminated by other types of lighting. It depends on your own space and your goals.
LED panels are an easy to use and effective solution for your general lighting and will keep energy consumption as low as possible.
2. Task lighting
When we want to do a task focused or with accuracy, it is important to have very good task lighting. Wherever there are workplaces, cabinets, benches, desks, it is important to add over the layer of ambient lighting, a layer of task lighting with table lights for work/reading or LED strips.
Wherever light sources are located, make sure that employees can control their own source. It will help them be more efficient and effective in their work.
3. Accent lighting
For extra ambience and a more enjoyable working environment, you can add decorative lighting with wall sconces that might emphasize architectural details, artwork, plants, wall papers, new products, important signs or other elements that are important for the branding of your company.
