Skip to main content

How to choose the best home office lighting

desk with task lighting
Africa Studio/Shutterstock

Want to know an easy way to boost productivity in your home office? The answer may be as simple as making sure the lighting you have is working for you. Studies show that poor lighting can cause eyestrain, headaches, and even drain your energy. Taking stock and ensuring that the sources currently in use are optimal will make your office a nice place to spend time in, and it will be better for your overall health in the long run too.

Access your space

The first step in rethinking your home office lighting is to look at the space and determine what you have to work with. There is no substitute for good natural light, so you will want to pay attention to how much your office gets. If you are fortunate enough to have windows that let in sunlight, count yourself lucky.

Pay attention to where the light is coming from and what direction it shines. A light or sun from a window set behind you will create a glare on screens. In general, it is best to position your desk so that windows are in front or to the side of you. Light-diffusing window shades should be used at times that sunlight is too intense. This will still allow you to benefit from the natural light but ensure it is not overwhelming. It is also important to think about whether you are primarily using the room during the day or night after the sun goes down. If you work late into the night, then that should be a factor in your plan.

Since many offices are in basements, spare bedrooms, or even in a tiny portion of another space, the conditions are not always optimal. If your room is windowless or dark, you will need to make sure to compensate for it. Remember, this is not a cozy bedroom or a living room where you will curl up to watch television. You want to infuse your office with energy and life so that while you are there, you can be your most awake and energetic. This may mean adding multiple lights to make the space feel brighter.

Rethink the standard

It is important to remember that an office requires a unique lighting plan. What suffices in other parts of the home may not be enough in a work environment. For example, many homes today feature recessed lighting, which may be ideal in a living or family room, but an office needs multiple sources. Even if you have those lights on, you still want to create a more custom lighting environment that will serve you better.

Man at desk working from home
taramara78/Shutterstock

The main source

For the overall lighting of the space, indirect is better. What does that mean? Many old offices are lit with glaring overhead lighting that is harsh and creates glares and shadows. Instead, lights with lampshades such as a table or floor lamps will bring a softer, diffused brightness that creates a pleasing atmosphere. The goal is to illuminate the space without shadows and contrast.

If your home office is a tight space or just a part of a bigger one, a hanging pendant light with a shade may be your best bet. This frees up real estate on your desk and still gives you indirect light.

Task lighting

When doing focused tasks such as paperwork, computer work, or reading, it is best to use a specific light dedicated to it. These lights often come with adjustable arms allowing you to focus it exactly where you need it. If your office has multiple workstations be sure to designate a task light for each one.

Accent lighting

Now that you have your main lighting and task lighting sorted out, you may want to add some style. Sconces add interest and can be used to highlight a certain wall or architectural detail. Picture lights can illuminate artwork that is meaningful to you.

As we spend more and more hours in our home offices, it is vital to take the time to personalize the space, so it functions optimally. Lighting is one of the easiest and best ways to revitalize your office and make working a more pleasant experience.

Editors' Recommendations

Darcey Gohring
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Darcey Gohring is a freelance writer based just outside New York City. She served as the managing editor of New Jersey…
4 gorgeous colors that go with teal for home design that isn’t tacky
There are plenty of fantastic color combos to pair with this hue
teal front door of small white cottage

Teal is a quirky color. As an unconventional hue to introduce to your palette, teal offers charm and personality to liven up a drab space. However, teal can be a tricky color to execute effectively in home design. A common challenge is finding the right hues to pair with teal to create a color palette that isn’t tacky.

Thankfully, there are plenty of wonderful colors that go with teal if you know what to look for.

Read more
How to paint your kitchen cabinets to give your kitchen a fresh look
Here's what you need to do when painting kitchen cabinets
Blue kitchen cabinets in farmhouse design

If you’ve been looking for a way to spruce up your kitchen but aren’t ready to commit to a full overhaul, consider painting your cabinets. Cabinets constitute a large amount of your kitchen space, making it one of the most important aspects in terms of design and aesthetics.

As long as you prepare well and paint carefully, you can bring some life back into your kitchen. It's simple to do and doesn’t require a full kitchen remodel, so painting kitchen cabinets is the perfect DIY project for the next time you have a free weekend. Here's how to do this painting project from start to finish!

Read more
The best greige paint colors that will completely refresh your home
Try these greige paint colors for a change of scenery
Greige living room with brick wall

In the realm of interior design, finding the perfect neutral hue can transform a space from ordinary to extraordinary. Greige, a sophisticated blend of gray and beige, has emerged as a timeless favorite for its ability to effortlessly complement a variety of styles and aesthetics.

Whether used as a wall color, trim accent, or foundation for decor, greige offers a subtle yet elegant backdrop that enhances any room. If you’re searching for the best greige paint colors, we’ve got you covered! Keep reading to find out why it’s a great color, how best to use it, and some of our favorite greige paints.

Read more