Home office lighting ideas

A major trend in the last decade is the use of a home office from which to conduct your business. Some of these offices represent part time work used to supplement the primary income earned at a job outside the home. However, more and more individuals are earning their primary income (and spending the entire workday) in a home office. My wife, for example, works for a company doing outside sales. The company accepted her request to transfer her base of operations to a home office. While there was an initial outlay of capital expenditures on furniture, a fax and a copy machine, the company provided the computer system and pays for the internet connection. Everyone wins. My wife’s commute to work is 35’ and she is available for over time, which the company frequently needs.

I have found that she is not alone in this arrangement. More and more companies are finding it to be more cost-effective to set-up a trusted employee in a home office rather than have them commute to an often over-crowded office. Whatever the arrangement, many people are spending a considerable part of the workday in a home office and it is essential that the area be designed to promote a comfortable work environment, including just the right kind of lighting configuration. A home office that is too dimly lit will eventually lead to eyestrain, lower production because of the fatigue factor and even the possibility of developing of a medical condition. On the other hand, lighting that is too bright or that is placed in such a way that too much glare or reflection occurs, can also lead to fatigue and even headaches. The wrong lighting configuration could create distractions and can contribute to disorganization.

A rule of thumb is to start with overhead lighting positioned in such a way that your primary workspace is illuminated and without shadows. Fluorescent fixtures that are energy efficient are usually your best bet. Even though they are somewhat more expensive, using bulbs that are also used as grow lights for plants, provide artificial sunlight and make it easier and more comfortable to work longer hours during the winter or on those days that are overcast. It’s a good idea to use two light fixtures placed on either side of your work area and position them so that you don’t actually see them when you are working.

Take a good look at the prospective layout of the home office room before investing in lighting fixtures. consider any ambient lighting that is available from windows or other places in the room. Keep in mind that as the day progresses the kind of ambient light that is available will change so plan accordingly. Find the best place for the desk that will house your computer terminal, printer, copier, fax and other necessary equipment. Your lighting should be planned around this equipment since that’s where you will be spending your time.