How to Make the Most of Your Home Office with the Right Lighting

How can you work effectively from home? We’ve all asked ourselves this question. Working from home is a welcome alternative these days. The loss of the office environment often causes anxiety. Will I be able to complete all my tasks during regular working hours, even with so many distractions around me? Can I be my own boss? 

Today’s internet is flooded with tips on how to manage your home environment and efficiently tackle one task after another. However, lighting often doesn’t play a decisive role. The opposite is true. Here are five tips on how the layout and type of lighting can be the perfect ally when working from home. 

1) One light, a thousand tasks

Throughout the day, we switch between a variety of different tasks. Some of them require us to focus on a computer screen, while others just involve working with paper or a phone. A lamp that illuminates only the necessary area can help you stay focused. A desk lamp is a good solution. It’s best to choose one that allows you to adjust the brightness. 

2) Avoid direct light

The goal is to illuminate the space without casting a shadow. Think about which hand you use to write, and place the lamp on the opposite side. If you’re working on a computer, you don’t want the light from the bulb to reflect on the screen. The same rule applies to natural light. 

3) Don't ignore natural light 

Natural light still has its charm. Sunlight produces a warm glow that lifts the spirits and boosts enthusiasm for work. However, working with natural light is a form of alchemy. We must always consider where it’s coming from and position our desk accordingly. 

It’s a good idea to face north and south while working. That way, the light won’t cast a shadow at any time of day. It’s also ideal to position your workspace sideways to the windows. This prevents glare on the monitor and protects your eyes. 

4) Sufficient space 

Not everyone is lucky enough to have a dedicated room in their apartment for an office. If we can at least set up our own little corner, it shouldn’t be cluttered with stuff. Only the bare essentials should remain on the desk. Anything that might distract us should be put away. The same goes for the surrounding area. 

If you have a smaller space, a brighter lamp or a smart pendant light might be the ideal choice. You can then adjust the brightness to suit your needs using a tablet or smartphone. 

5) Every light has its own function 

Don’t limit yourself to just one level of lighting. Experts in this field recommend starting from the top. Individual light fixtures should not overlap in their function. Use a subtle, decorative fixture on the ceiling. On the walls, use smaller lamps to highlight specific features. At your desk, one brighter lamp will suffice. Complement all of this with natural light.