What Is The Best Color Temperature For Office Lighting? Boost Productivity Now! June 28, 2018 – Posted in: Commercial Lighting, Office Lighting

I’ll get straight to the point, avoid anything below 3500 Kelvin in your work areas. It’s too yellow, and there is research behind it that will dissuade you from using it. The best light temperature for offices is between 3500 Kelvin and 5500 Kelvin . Anything above 5500K is just too blue and anything below 3500K will make your employees less productive. You can check out a study about the effect of lighting on the Circadian Rhythm and why so many apps exist to control your screen color temperature so you can get a better nights sleep. Essentially if your office has color temperature that is too “yellow”, it signals everyone in the room to pass out, and I’m sure nobody wants an office full of sleepers (not sleeper cells, just sleeping people).

Is Warm or Cool light better for offices?

Our recommendation overall is 4000-4500K CCT or middle of the road. Choosing the right color temperature of the light in each area of your office building is essential. Depending on the purpose of the space, you can create a different vibe and atmosphere with the right lighting.

In a work environment, you generally want something bright, such as our seamless office light which comes in just about any color temperature (even the one that will put you to sleep!).

For offices, a color temperature between 4000K to 5500K is optimal. This range of lighting will keep employees feeling alert and productive. Too much yellow in the light can make people feel sluggish, while too much blue can be disrupting and cause eye strain. I cannot tell you how many times we’ve had people blindly order the wrong color temperature and end up trying to return it after it’s been hung up. So for that reason, check out the chart below: 

What color temperature is best for common areas?

For cafeterias or break areas, you can use lighting that has a bit warmer color temperature (3000K-3500K). This type of light gives a feeling of comfort and relaxation, perfect for encouraging breaks and conversations among colleagues.

What color temperature is best for conference rooms?

For conference rooms, the most appropriate option is to go for more neutral lighting, like 4000K-4500K. Neutral light creates a more professional atmosphere which is ideal for meetings and projects that require concentration. Some people still try to go for a fluorescent / hospital type look with their lighting, but even at 5,500K you tend to get some eye strain.

Finally, when designing workspaces such as reception areas, lobby and hallways, you should go for a color temperature that is somewhere in the middle. A color temperature of 3500K-4500K will help to create a welcoming and more relaxed atmosphere. Many customers choose to go with a single color temperature just to simplify things and match the light throughout the building as well.

For a full list of our modern office lighting, please see this page.

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