Jane Duncan, designer at NERO, explores the need to re-evaluate the office space in a three part series.
Part Two: More Natural Light
Light and space are closely related.
Designers consider all types of lighting – artificial and natural – when creating an efficient corporate interior. With enough natural light illumination, spaces feel larger.
Now, more than ever, employees crave connection. Not only does expansive glazing allow substantial natural light to flow into work areas, it also has an inadvertent influence on employees’ mood and creativity. By being exposed to daylight and weather conditions, employees feel connected to the outside world.
Workers with exposure to natural light are more likely to work a full schedule, whilst being happier. The connection between natural light and Vitamin D is well-studied; Vitamin D promotes better health in many ways, including fighting conditions such as depression, diabetes, and chronic pain.
Design specialists have the expertise to enhance maximum natural light exposure. Technical considerations – such as the prevention of screen glare, relocating shelving and space dividers that obstruct light, harnessing the relationship between paint colours and light reflection, and tracing natural light’s path through the space – are applied to utilise light optimally.
In instances where natural light in the work environment is inadequate, employees should be encouraged to take breaks outdoors to ensure sufficient Vitamin D exposure.
