Office lighting balances task visibility, visual comfort, and energy use. Modern guidance targets work-plane light levels with low glare and good uniformity across the space.
| Area | Target and notes |
|---|---|
| Open office | 300 to 500 lux, low glare |
| Private office | 300 to 500 lux, dimmable |
| Conference room | 300 to 500 lux, scene control |
| Reception | 200 to 300 lux plus accent |
| Corridors | 100 lux |
| Screen-based work | 300 to 500 lux, control screen glare |
Glare and uniformity
Aim for a unified glare rating (UGR) of 19 or lower and task-area uniformity of about 0.6. Neutral color (3500 to 4000 K) and CRI 80 or better suit most office work.
Daylight harvesting and occupancy controls cut energy without hurting comfort. Position luminaires to avoid veiling reflections on monitors.
See the Recommended Lux Levels and the Fixture Spacing Guide.
Designing office lighting
Office design targets a comfortable 300–500 lux on work surfaces while controlling glare on screens. Modern practice layers ambient ceiling light with task lighting at desks, so individuals can boost their own level without over-lighting the whole floor. Well-shielded fixtures, indirect or low-glare optics, and some light on walls and ceilings reduce the harsh contrast that causes eye strain. Neutral white (3500–4000K) is typical for an alert feel. Daylight harvesting (dimming electric light when sunlight is available) and occupancy sensors are common energy-savers, and tunable systems that warm and dim through the day support comfort.