How to Improve Lighting in Your Workspace

Whether you’re working from a home office, managing a team in a commercial space, or overseeing a retail environment, lighting plays a critical role in productivity, comfort, and overall workplace performance.

Poor lighting can lead to eye strain, fatigue, and reduced focus. On the other hand, smart, well-designed lighting can boost alertness, elevate mood, and create a more functional and professional space.

So how do you get there? It starts with layered lighting and the right choice of bulb color.

Start with Layered Lighting: Ambient, Task, and Accent

One light source isn’t enough. To create a workspace that’s comfortable and effective throughout the day, use a layered lighting approach that combines three types of light:

1. Ambient Lighting

This is your general lighting—the overhead fixtures or recessed lights that brighten the entire room. Ambient light should be soft and even, reducing shadows and providing consistent coverage.

For offices or workspaces, overhead LED panels or flush-mount fixtures are ideal. Consider adding dimmers to adjust brightness based on the time of day or task at hand.

2. Task Lighting

Task lighting is focused light designed for specific activities like reading, writing, working on a computer, or reviewing documents. Desk lamps, under-cabinet lights, and adjustable floor lamps all fall under this category.

Task lighting should be bright without being harsh—and positioned to avoid glare or casting shadows on your work.

3. Accent Lighting

Accent lights add dimension and depth, highlighting artwork, shelving, or architectural features. In a workspace, accent lighting isn’t just about aesthetics—it also contributes to overall visual balance, which can reduce eye strain over time.

Track lights, wall sconces, and LED strip lights are great ways to layer in accent lighting without overwhelming the space.

Choose the Right Light Color: Cool White LEDs for Focus

Light temperature, measured in Kelvins (K), affects how alert and focused you feel. For most workspaces, cool white LEDs (4000K–5000K) are the sweet spot. This range mimics natural daylight and helps keep energy levels up—especially important during long hours indoors.

Avoid warm light (2700K–3000K) in primary work areas, as it tends to be too soft and relaxing for productivity. Reserve warmer lighting for break rooms, lounges, or reception areas where comfort takes priority over focus.

Bonus Tips for Better Workspace Lighting

Avoid direct glare: Use shades, diffusers, or matte finishes to soften harsh light
Adjust for screen use: Position lights to reduce reflection on monitors
Use natural light when possible: Supplement with artificial light, but don’t block windows
Consider smart lighting systems: Automate lighting levels to match your schedule

Light the Way to a Better Workday

Improving your workspace lighting doesn’t require a complete overhaul—it just requires smart planning. By layering ambient, task, and accent lighting and selecting the right color temperature, you can transform any office into a more efficient, comfortable, and energizing place to get things done.

Need Professional Lighting Solutions?

Whether you're reworking your home office or upgrading a commercial space, Have Lights Will Travel offers expert lighting design, installation, and retrofitting services. We'll help you create a brighter, better workspace that’s built for productivity.