Top Tips for Lighting an Open Plan Office Space
Open plan is a popular layout for many office environments because they improve communication and collaboration amongst staff and allow for greater flexibility. One aspect of an open-plan office place that you should consider is the lighting, which is something that Smart Electricians can help you with.
The lighting you choose can really alter the ambiance in your office and determine whether or not there is a positive vibe amongst your staff. For example, if they are struggling to see and suffering with eye strain due to poor lighting, they will not be able to work effectively. Here are some tips to get you started with your lighting plan…
Utilise Natural Light
Where possible, try and make use of the natural light that is available within your office space. As humans, we are hardwired to work in the day time, so natural light should help with productivity.
Consider Your Needs
What types of tasks are carried out within your office space? Architects, for instance, need brighter lighting so that they can deal with detailed tasks. If your staff use computers most of the day, you’ll need to avoid glare on the screens. Ceiling lights will provide adequate enough lighting in this instance, as desk lamps can produce shadows.
Be Creative
One downside of an open-plan space is that there tend to be fewer fixing points, as a direct result of there being less walls. With this in mind, it’s important to be creative with your lighting solutions by considering different types of light fixtures, from ceiling lights to desk or floor lamps.
Create Different Zones
Each section of your office will require different lighting to create a sense of balance. For instance, work stations may benefit from task lighting so that your employees can see what they’re doing clearly. You may also have a break-out area where colleagues can relax, so bright lights aren’t particularly necessary. Fluorescent lighting as a quick fix isn’t the best option, because a one size fits all approach will impact productivity.
Upgrade to LED Bulbs
LED bulbs are far more energy efficient than alternative bulbs and they tend to last much longer, which can save you a significant amount of money. What’s more, they light up instantly and don’t heat up, which makes them a safer option.
