Lighting design for improving occupant wellbeing
Lighting design for improving occupant wellbeing has become central to interior design in recent years.
With many research studies confirming that lighting design directly affects mental and physical wellbeing, interior designers and property developers understand the importance of carefully curated lighting design and now incorporate it into their designs and room layouts.
Lighting design for improving occupant wellbeing
Detail Lighting is a well-established team of lighting design specialists. For many years we have focussed on lighting design for improving occupant wellbeing.
Daylight is a key element of lighting design that improves occupant wellbeing. By developing bespoke lighting fixtures and systems that maximise the infiltration of daylight, and adopting the three principles of ambient, task and accent lighting, we design lighting systems that benefit occupants’ mental health and physical wellbeing.
Circadian rhythm-friendly architectural lighting design
Central to architectural lighting design that benefits the wellbeing of occupants is circadian lighting schemes based on the theory of circadian rhythms.
Circadian rhythms are physical and behavioural changes that are aligned with a 24-hour cycle. Often referred to as an internal body clock, our circadian rhythms make us naturally alert during daylight and rested during the night. Artificial light interrupts circadian rhythms which can have a negative impact on mental health and wellbeing.
Circadian rhythm-friendly architectural lighting design overcomes the negative impact of artificial light on the wellbeing of occupants. The intensity, colour and duration of artificial light can be tuned to minimise impact. Blue light wavelengths can also be programmed to limit their effect on melatonin, our sleep cycle hormone.
Timers, sensors and dimmers are all examples of smart technology that can also be used to minimise the duration and stimulation of artificial lighting.
Designing with light to enhance occupant health and productivity
Well-designed circadian lighting systems allow for more alertness during the day which enhances occupant health and productivity.
Poor lighting causes eye strain and fatigue which leads to reduced concentration. In workplaces, this can result in costly errors as well as stress and anxiety. If the lighting is not sufficient for a particular task, it can cause poor posture and musculoskeletal issues in the shoulders, neck or back.
Optimising natural light in the design of artificial lighting schemes is known to improve mood and energy levels, and enhance cognitive function.
When designing light to enhance occupant health and productivity, it is essential that glare is minimised and the right colour temperature is applied (5000K and above for cool lighting for higher productivity, and below 3000K for a more cosy, restful environment). Users should also be given access to smart controls to adapt the lighting to their daily needs.
Why work with Detail Lighting to create lighting schemes to improve occupant wellbeing
Working with Detail Lighting to create lighting schemes that improve occupant wellbeing gives specifiers such as architects, interior designers and fit-out contractors peace of mind that all lighting designs will be bespoke to the needs of each individual project.
With many years of experience, we can provide valuable guidance for your choice of fixtures, and create lighting schemes that improve occupant wellbeing.
For a free consultation, get in touch with Detail Lighting by calling 01908 613 256 or sending an email to sales@detaillighting.co.uk.
Can we help?
For a no-obligation chat about your architectural lighting designs, please contact us using our online form, by email at sales@detaillighting.co.uk, or by calling 01908 613256.
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