Each organisation has one place (or a few) which is the base for holding meetings and important events. However, something which many of these organisations fail to understand is the importance of space design when it comes to getting work done. The lighting of the room can especially have an impact on productivity, either for the good or for the bad. How can you decide on the best lighting for your specific purposes? Below are 6 important factors, suggested by HL Decorating Contractors, to take into consideration when choosing the lighting for meeting spaces.
1) The Size of the Room
What is the occupancy of the room? Is it for large audiences or small discussions? The room size is one of the most crucial factors when deciding on the lighting design.
2) Conserving Energy
The number of bulbs in the space will affect the amount of energy you use. Consider how you can light the room without causing a waste of energy. Large windows can certainly provide some light, however sunlight changes during the day meaning you can’t have full control of the levels of light. Think about LED bulbs as an option or alternative energy-saving lighting.
3) Technology Use
Will a projection screen be used in the space? Will people use devices such as laptops and tablets? You do not want the lighting to reflect off the used devices or to overpower the projection screen and hinder presentations. Do a trial run using the technology that plans to be used in the space and consider how the lighting affects it.
4) The Correct Level Of Brightness
Low lighting can promote a drowsy atmosphere. However, bright lighting can create a restless and distracting vibe. Think about the correct lighting level for note taking, and reading necessary materials, especially for people with poorer eyesight and in need of better lighting. Test the light levels to ensure that the level is sufficient for your purpose.
5) Controlling the Lighting
There are many ways to control the lighting in a room. A series of switches can be used to give control over various sections of lights. This means you can turn off some lights while leaving other necessary lights on. A dimmer switch is another option that will allow you to adjust the level when needed. If the meeting space is large, you could opt for a lighting board which adjusts each section to provide the ideal level of lighting for your needs.
When lights are not used, how dark does it get? Is it easy to find the controls in the dark? Accidents and lawsuits can happen when someone needs to look for something in the dark. Some organisations have a system in place so that no one can enter a room which is dark. Motion sensors turn the lights on in advance if a person is entering, or pilot lights are constantly on and give enough light to be able to find the main switch. Another option is to put a switch on the outside of the door allowing people to switch it on manually when they need to enter.
Other important factors also come into play when choosing the lighting for a meeting space. Choosing the right lighting can have a positive impact on versatility and productivity. Consider how the space will be used, research each lighting type and identify which will best address your needs.
