If you want productive staff and a pleasant place to work, office lighting is definitely something that you should be considering. The lighting you choose for the workplace can have a bigger impact on your employees than you might expect, so why not take a look at our tips for choosing office lighting for your small business?

Keep reading below to find out what to think about!

1. Consider Bulb Intensity

You need to strike a good balance when it comes to the intensity of the light in your office, and in particular around desks.

When desks are underlit, this can lead to eye strain, reducing productivity and concentration. However, overlit desks also have a negative effect as they can cause visual discomfort and glare — this again decreases the productivity and concentration of your staff. An intensity between the two should be found.

2. Think About Quantity and Placement

Again, it's all about balance. Align the lights with your tables and desks so lighting is evenly spread around the office.

For longer tables and workspaces, wider lighting fixtures may be better, while if your tables and small and square, perhaps consider installing single fixtures instead.

3. Go for Dimmer Switches

These are particularly important to consider if you have rooms that are used for multiple purposes. For example, a room used not only for employees to work but also for meetings, presentations or conferences will require different lighting at different times.

By using a dimmer switch, you can produce the right lighting for every situation, and use less energy too. Meanwhile, as they're easy to adjust, you can accommodate those individuals who happen to be present as per their own preferences.

4. Smart, Neutral Colors

It's important to think about the different colors for lighting, but neutral colors are almost always best in professional environments.

Again, balance is important, so ensure that all lights in the office have the same color temperature, and make sure that they don't flash either.

If you like more 'fun' colors as lighting options, save them for outside the office. If your employees have a break area or lunch hall, you could be a little more unconventional there instead.

5. Use Indirect and Natural Light

Where possible, these types of light are preferable. More direct lightning, together with a bright computer screen, can often invite headaches and visual strain. If you can use lamps instead of direct lighting, consider doing so.

Don't forget about natural light either — it's free, gives us vitamin D, and can even be a mood-booster! Use windows where possible, and if your office is lacking in windows, you could try a light that imitates natural sunlight for a similar effect.

Choosing the Right Office Lighting for You

You might be limited by what you can do in your office, depending on the size of the space, budget constraints, and other factors. However, it's easy to take at least some of our tips for choosing office lighting on board — what sort of office lighting will you decide on?

If you're looking for more advice on getting supplies for your business, check out our blog posts, or contact us today.