Light control should be a fundamental consideration in office design.
Natural light is the most preferred natural element, as studies have shown that a significant lack of it can lead to Sick Building Syndrome and other health issues. However, it’s not always possible to rely solely on natural light.
Lighting in office spaces can vary significantly, coming from natural sources like sunlight or artificial sources like lamps. Both types can dramatically impact productivity and wellbeing and are affected by different factors such as light intensity, duration, colour, and quality.
In the design of high-end offices, the thoughtful consideration of natural and artificial lighting should be a necessity, as these elements directly impact employee wellbeing and productivity.
Umbra’s maintenance-free office blinds and curtains provide the ultimate control over lighting exposure in an office while meeting regulatory standards, saving energy, and caring for the environment.
WELL Standard
Our office blinds and curtains help minimise disruptions to circadian rhythms and enhance overall wellbeing, supporting good sleep quality and visual comfort.
BREEAM
We contribute to sustainable building practices by allowing for efficient use of natural light and reducing reliance on artificial lighting, thereby supporting energy efficiency. Our automated solutions can secure BREEAM credits that will contribute to an overall high score.
Part L Building Regulations
Our solutions assist in the conservation of fuel and power by optimising lighting efficiency, which is crucial for meeting Part L regulatory standards.
The Benefits of Natural Light
Better Employee Health and Wellbeing
Exposure to natural light during the day boosts serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter that contributes to a happier mood. It also increases Vitamin D production, which helps fight depression, diabetes, and chronic pain, promoting overall wellbeing.
Higher Productivity and Cognitive Function
Natural light can increase employee productivity by 60%, according to a study by the Polytechnic University of Madrid. It also improves attention, concentration, and creativity, leading to higher work performance.
Circadian Rhythm Regulation
Natural light is essential for regulating the body’s circadian rhythms, which control sleep-wake cycles. Proper exposure helps maintain a healthy balance, promoting better sleep and health.
Employees who sleep well tend to perform better, creating a positive cycle of wellbeing and productivity.
Reduced Eye Strain and Eye Problems
Controlled natural light, when diffused properly, reduces glare and provides a balanced light- spectrum that’s comfortable for the eyes, minimising eye strain for employees working prolonged hours. An effective way to manage natural light, especially in workspaces with large windows, is by using office blinds and curtains to diffuse and soften the light entering the workspace when needed.
The Importance of Artificial Light
While natural light is highly beneficial, it is only sometimes available or sufficient, especially during darker months or in specific architectural contexts. And this is where artificial light is extremely important.
Also, although natural light has many benefits, prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause health issues. Therefore, finding the right balance between natural and artificial light is essential.
Consistency and Control
Artificial light can be adjusted for brightness, colour temperature, and timing, providing consistent lighting conditions essential for productivity and comfort in spaces with limited natural light.
With Umbra office blinds, you can now control both natural and artificial light in any office space without compromising individual needs and preferences.
Supporting Wellbeing with Circadian Lighting
Some artificial lighting systems are even designed to mimic the qualities of natural light, helping to support circadian rhythms even when natural light is not available. This can prevent the negative effects of prolonged exposure to cooler, blue-toned lights often associated with artificial sources, which can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to increased eye strain.
Visual Performance
The right artificial lighting system can help visual performance, reducing glare and providing enough illumination for detailed tasks, which is crucial in a professional setting.
Creating Balance
Architects and interior designers should try to balance natural and artificial light by integrating smart technologies and systems to complement high-end functional office spaces.
This balance can maximise natural light’s benefits while providing the necessary control and consistency of proper artificial lighting.
Umbra Blinds and Curtains for Light Control
Create an inspiring, comfortable and productive workplace that promotes employee wellbeing with our customisable office blinds and curtains for ultimate light control.
Our stylish products incorporate so easily into any office design and help with energy-savings while offering an enhanced user experience.
With our extensive experience since 1975, Umbra has become a trusted name in electric shade solutions, proudly made in Britain.
Explore our range of quality blinds and curtains, both electric and manual, to achieve optimal light control and add the perfect finishing touch to every sophisticated high-end office space.
Contact us for help with selecting the most suitable products for your next project.