Modern offices should, at their core, prioritise functionality. However, more and more, we’re seeing the need to combine elements of comfort and style to create workplaces that can boost productivity and improve wellbeing.
One simple but effective way to increase productivity in the workplace is to embrace office lighting. Here are some of our top office lighting ideas to promote productivity.
Maximise Natural Light
Maximise natural lighting within the space. Exposure to natural light in heavily used areas of the office space can enhance concentration and reduce eyestrain and headaches. Office spaces rely heavily on natural light produced by windows to brighten the space.
However, when the days start to get shorter and darker in autumn, natural light can seem scarce and make work areas feel gloomier. It is especially important here to consider the role of ambient lighting, which will help warm up spaces that are brighten up enough by dreary, overcast natural light.
Our natural circadian rhythm is vital to our wellbeing and responds to the change of light such as natural lighting throughout the day. This has affected office lighting design as workers are demanding more natural light during their working hours to feel connected with nature, their circadian rhythm and productivity.
Position office desks and areas where staff need to be highly productive close to windows or areas with access to natural light. If your office does not have many windows, embrace modern mirrors that reflect light throughout the office space.
Retro Large Pendant - 17 Inch - Pewter by Industville (Image Credit: Kinetic Workplace Limited)
Use the Right LED Bulbs
LED are the obvious bulb choice nowadays; they last up to five times longer and use less energy than traditional bulbs. However, there are a wide range of LED bulbs available, so it’s important to choose the right style and type for your space.
Some LEDs can be harsh and provide stark, white light – not something you want for an office area where employees should be able to concentrate and relax. Instead, choose LEDs bulbs with a warmer colour temperate to cast a softer ambient glow.
Vintage-style Edison bulbs make a great option in this respect as they often embrace a golden or orange-tinted light, which is easier on the eyes while still providing bright enough light to illuminate desks and meeting rooms.
Vintage LED Spiral Edison Bulb - 5W E27 Globe G125 by Industville (Image Supplied by Kinetic Workplace Limited)
Office Lighting with Handcrafted Organic Shapes
Embrace an organic, natural look for a softer, more aesthetic feel. Light shades that are rounded work well as these fixtures can reduce harshness within the office and promote healthy wellbeing for employees.
Handcrafted office lights made of natural materials make beautiful additions to any office space, using a modern, sleek industrial aesthetic to elevate a basic corporate office space.
Handcrafted Wire Cage Pendant Light - 20 Inch - Globe - Brass by Industville (Image Supplied by Industville)
Embrace Task Lighting
Consider whether the lighting layout in your office could be reconfigured to maximise productivity for all workers. Optimise task lighting in your office space, as it is essential for completing day-to-day office tasks.
To create efficient spotlights, incorporate hanging pendant light fixtures over desks and meeting areas. This spotlight will enable workers to effectively complete their tasks without the risk of eye strain. Table lamps are the perfect companion to hanging pendants as they only illuminate one area and are convenient for office use.
Retro Large Pendant - 17 Inch - Pewter by Industville (Image Supplied by One to One, Chalk Street Estates)
Reduce Direct and Indirect Glares Within The Office
Reduce the glare caused by bright light sources in the office. This light source reflects off surfaces such as computer and laptop screens and glossy surfaces. Glare causes fatigue in the eyes resulting in workers becoming unproductive.
Adjust your office desks and other areas that are used for work to reduce glare from natural light. Add blinds to adjust the direct sunlight glowing into the office space. Regulate your screen brightness to match the natural light levels in the room.
Bulkhead Outdoor & Bathroom Round Light - 8 Inch - Black by Industville (Image supplied by Kinetic Workplace Limited)
Adapting your office lighting is essential if you want to achieve optimal productivity for your employees. Hopefully these lighting ideas inspire you to create an office space full of energised and happy employees!
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