Many factors influence the effectiveness of a workplace design, from ergonomics to economics, but one of the least considered components is lighting, and how it influences individual and group performance.
Workplace lighting design needs to bring together quantitative criteria such as illuminance and energy efficiency but must also deliver on qualitative outcomes determined by the utilisation of the space. Key questions to ask are:
Why are we providing lighting? What strategic, architectural or functional purpose does the space have?
What are the office tasks that the lighting provided needs to support?
How can we future-proof the workplace lighting design to adapt should the purpose of the space change, or the nature of the office tasks change?
Traditional workplace lighting design relied on downlighting: grids of troffers placed symmetrically around a space providing a blanket level of light. Light, by definition, is invisible until it hits a surface so the bulk of the value from the downlights ended up on desk surfaces or the floor.
You can see the problem. Human perception of light is through the eyes, which focus largely on vertical surfaces (the ones we look toward), yet the light is on the horizontals. It lands equally across the space, regardless of which part of the space is used and for what purpose.
Placing light on desks also fails to reflect the changed nature of work: 80% of what we do is now on a backlit vertical screen. The result is bland, expensive to install and operate, and in conflict with human nature.
Effective workplace lighting design should be zonal. Consider where the user needs light, and how much light:
Below: An example lighting project by Erco for Deskopolitan Pasteur, a coworking space in Paris, France.
As we learn more about human performance, other elements of workplace lighting design have been identified as important. The quantity and quality of light are recognised, as is the absence of glare and its consequential effects on eye strain, headaches and fatigue. Providing light that reflects the Circadian rhythm also assists performance; bright, stimulating light during the day helps keep people awake and alert, whilst toward the end of the day as people’s natural cycles head toward rest and relaxation, light can be warmer and more soothing.
Changes in light temperature can be achieved with tunable fittings which can be programmed to change throughout the day. It is also possible to provide more stimulating light in the upper part of a space, where the Ganglion cells in the retina are most concentrated.
Considering lighting early in the process with a workplace strategy will ensure the cost of installation and operation is minimised. It is important to consider the individual light, not the lights: which luminaires will provide the level of light you need? It's not about the most light, but the right level of light. This will depend not only on the luminaire itself, but also on the lens shape, its output, and the ratio between its brightness and the surrounding level of light. Read workplace lighting standards carefully – most lighting levels are recommended not mandatory, which correctly allows for flexibility to adapt according to the situation.
Workplace lighting design that is well-planned will provide the right quantity of light at the right time, in the right place. People will thrive in a workplace where the light provided is glare-free, sufficient but not excessive, and reflective of the Circadian rhythm. Effective lighting design is essential to creating a productive and comfortable workplace. By considering both the technical and human elements, organisations can enhance performance and well-being. Thoughtful lighting not only improves how people work but also adapts to future needs.
Below: An example a lighting project by Erco for USM, a modular furniture design company from Switzerland.
ERCO develops lighting tools that are designed for purpose. The education program at ERCO covers all facets of good workplace lighting design – you can see the available topics online or contact Tony Valentine, ERCO Work Cluster Manager to arrange a Workshop, Presentation or Webinar. Tony also conducts regular Project Tours in different capital cities to illustrate the principles in action.