Why Natural Light is Essential in Workplace Design: A Complete Guide

Why Do We Need Natural Light in Workplace Designs?

Compared to the rest of the world, UK offices prioritise natural light for its significant benefits on employee well-being and productivity. According to The Journalist’s Resource, windowless offices can decrease happiness and increase stress, while lack of sunlight affects sleep and alertness (Flexxia).

Sunlight also reduces operating expenses. For example, skylights and translucent panels can reduce electric lighting costs by 50% in the daytime.

Smart businesses are recognising daylight as a competitive edge. Natural light in workspaces boosts mental health, teamwork, and employee retention in remote and in-office settings.

The Science of Sunlight: How it Powers Our Mind and Body?

Sunlight not only warms our skin but also impacts mood, sleep, and overall well-being. Daily exposure to sunlight enhances energy levels and stabilises emotional health. Another benefit is the release of serotonin, which induces a calming and relaxed feeling. Meanwhile, UVB rays facilitate vitamin D production, essential for physical and mental well-being.

8 Powerful Benefits of Natural Light in Workspaces

Did you know that the UK's top-performing offices are investing in daylight as a key component of their workplace design? Here are 8 compelling reasons behind this growing trend and why natural light abundance should also be a priority for your workspace.

1. Better Sleep and Sharper Focus

Natural daylight is brilliant for keeping our body clocks in check. It regulates melatonin, the sleep hormone, which means you'll have an improved sleep cycle, clear thinking, and mood.

You'll also stay energetic all day long. Plus, working in natural light helps you stay sharp and focused, reducing caffeine addiction.

2. Improved Mood and Less Stress

Sunlight helps your brain produce more serotonin, which keeps your mood steady and emotions on an even keel. This is useful in gloomy winter months or when work pressures are high, as it combats worries, the blues, and burnout that creep in.

3. Higher Productivity

Daylight helps us think clearly and concentrate better by making sure we sleep well and feel good. It also tackles that afternoon slump, which makes us feel tired and foggy. As a result, employees feel more productive and efficient in their work.

4. Less Eye Strain and Physical Discomfort

Fluorescent lighting often takes a toll on employees' health, inducing headaches and strained eyes, which can overwhelm anyone working for prolonged screen time. In contrast, sunlight exposure reduces physical fatigue and eye strain, allowing individuals and teams to focus on their tasks efficiently.

5. Fewer Sick Days

Sunlight's vitamin D is important for keeping our immune systems strong, and sufficient exposure increases levels of 25(OH)D. This lessens the chances of contracting illnesses like common colds and flu to more serious long-term conditions.

6. Lower Energy Bills

Natural daylight in the office reduces the need for electric lights, creating a win-win situation. Windows, skylights, and glass doors allow abundant sunlight from multiple angles, minimising electricity usage. This approach not only improves sustainability but also saves money in the long run.

7. Higher Employee Retention

Who doesn’t like showing up to a workspace that improves their mood, makes them feel healthier, and boosts higher productivity levels? Natural light access in an office can accomplish all this. Additionally, offices with good environments tend to keep their staff longer, as people feel better and do better when surrounded by natural light.

8. Supports Green Building Standards

Another reason why natural light is essential in workplace design is that it contributes to an eco-friendly environment, a high priority for modern UK businesses. Achieving office building certifications, like BREEAM and WELL, which are widely recognised in the UK, recognises buildings that maximise natural light globally. This aligns with the growing trend of creating sustainable and healthier workplaces, meeting both environmental goals and employee well-being needs.

On that note, are you looking for sustainable spaces across the UK? Here’s a list of the top 7 eco-friendly office spaces in London to explore.

How to Maximise Natural Light in any Office Setting?

Want to boost daylight in your space? Here are some practical ways to get started:

• Rearrange your layout: Move desks closer to windows and light sources.
• Use transparent dividers: Install glass walls to spread light further into the office.
• Pick light colours: Use bright wall paint and reflective surfaces to maximise natural light.
• Add overhead light sources: Install skylights or solar tubes for top-floor offices to increase daylight and renew energy.
• Minimise window obstructions: Remove heavy blinds and bulky furniture that block light.
• Go open-plan: Reduce partitions to allow light to flow freely throughout the space.
• Clean regularly: Ensure windows are spotless to let in as much light as possible.
• Adjust seasonally: Make the most of shorter daylight hours in winter by tweaking the office layout.

Transform Your Workplace with Natural Light Access!

A well-lit workspace creates an environment where people feel better, work smarter, and stay healthier. From fewer sick days to stronger mental focus, natural light offers powerful benefits no modern office can ignore.

If your office still feels dull and dim, you are missing out on major health and performance perks. From reducing energy costs to retaining talent, sunlight is the knight in shining armour we all need!

Revamp your workspace goals with Office Hub. Explore 13,000+ bright and flexible offices across the UK to transform your workplace.

Call our flexperts to help you find a sunlit space that makes a real difference!