How can lighting design enhance employee well-being and productivity?

1 Natural light

Natural light is the best source of illumination for human eyes, as it provides the full spectrum of colors, regulates the circadian rhythm, and reduces eye strain and fatigue. Natural light can also boost mood, creativity, and alertness, as well as lower stress and depression levels. To maximize the benefits of natural light, you should aim to provide as much daylight access as possible, by using large windows, skylights, light shelves, or translucent partitions. You should also avoid blocking or reflecting natural light with furniture, curtains, or screens.

2 Artificial light

Artificial light is necessary to supplement natural light, especially during the darker hours or seasons, or in spaces that lack sufficient daylight. However, artificial light can also have negative effects on employee well-being and productivity, if it is too bright, dim, harsh, or flickering. To avoid these problems, you should choose artificial light sources that mimic natural light, such as LED or fluorescent lamps with warm or neutral color temperatures and high color rendering indexes. You should also use dimmers, sensors, timers, or smart controls to adjust the intensity and direction of artificial light according to the time of day, the task, and the preference of the user.

3 Task lighting

Task lighting is a type of artificial light that is designed to provide focused and adequate illumination for specific activities, such as reading, writing, or computing. Task lighting can improve employee well-being and productivity, by reducing eye strain, headaches, and errors, as well as enhancing concentration and accuracy. To optimize task lighting, you should provide individual or adjustable lamps for each workstation, that can be moved or angled to suit the needs of the user. You should also avoid creating glare, shadows, or contrast with other light sources, by positioning task lighting at the appropriate height and distance from the work surface and the eyes.

4 Ambient lighting

Ambient lighting is a type of artificial light that is designed to create a uniform and pleasant background illumination for the whole space, such as overhead or wall-mounted fixtures. Ambient lighting can improve employee well-being and productivity, by creating a sense of spaciousness, warmth, and harmony, as well as supporting the general visibility and safety of the environment. To optimize ambient lighting, you should use indirect or diffused light sources that distribute the light evenly and softly, without creating hot spots or dark corners. You should also use color and texture to add variety and interest to the ambient lighting, such as colored bulbs, filters, or shades.

5 Accent lighting

Accent lighting is a type of artificial light that is designed to highlight or emphasize a specific feature or element in the space, such as artwork, signage, or plants. Accent lighting can improve employee well-being and productivity, by creating a focal point, a mood, or a theme, as well as enhancing the aesthetic and functional value of the space. To optimize accent lighting, you should use directional or spot light sources that create contrast and drama, without overpowering or distracting from the other light sources. You should also use accent lighting sparingly and strategically, to avoid clutter and confusion.

6 Biophilic lighting

Biophilic lighting is a type of lighting design that is inspired by or incorporates natural elements, such as plants, water, fire, or sky. Biophilic lighting can improve employee well-being and productivity, by stimulating the senses, reducing stress, and promoting a connection with nature. To implement biophilic lighting, you can use natural materials, shapes, or patterns to create lighting fixtures or effects, such as wood, stone, or leaves. You can also use dynamic or interactive lighting systems that simulate natural phenomena, such as sunrise, sunset, clouds, or stars.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?