Commercial Lighting Design

COMMERCIAL LIGHTING DESIGN

Commercial lighting is more than an upscaled version of residential lighting - It demands careful planning and consideration of the unique needs of each space. Just as there will be little in common between a lighting plan for a residential kitchen and a commercial office, so will there be a world of differences between an office and a warehouse.


Despite these differences, a common theme across commercial lighting is the need for balance. A strictly task-focused lighting approach in workspaces can lead to eyestrain and headaches, while prioritising ambience over functionality can create an environment that hinders productivity. The key is to strike a balance between the two, combining practicality with comfort.


Lightplan’s meticulous approach to commercial lighting design ensures that the ideal balance is not only achieved but also implemented in a way that lowers energy costs, reduces maintenance needs, and maximises your return on investment.


DIFFERENT CONSIDERATIONS FOR DIFFERENT SPACES

More than simply illuminating a space, attentive commercial lighting design has a role to play in reinforcing brand identity and shaping the experiences of staff, customers and visitors. Each commercial environment has its own set of lighting needs, and we take pride in developing tailored solutions for each one.

OFFICE SPACES

The need for a balance between ambience and task lighting is no clearer with office workspaces - Effective task lighting is essential for allowing employees to work without distraction, while ambient lighting can be used to create an engaging atmosphere that fosters collaboration.


A well-designed office lighting plan additionally finds a way to weave in natural lighting. This maximises the benefits of available daylight, which has been shown to boost moods and energy levels, while reducing reliance on electric lighting during the day. The result is a workspace that is both healthier and more productive for employees.

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RETAIL SPACES

Retail lighting goes beyond the need for simple illumination - Effective retail lighting serves to highlight products in a way that captures attention, draws the eye and ultimately encourages purchases. Intensities and colours can also be creatively used to create zones within the space for promotions or seasonal displays.

 

Furthermore, the right lighting can lean into a brand’s identity to create an atmosphere that resonates with the target audience. A high-end boutique might use soft, warm lighting to evoke a sense of exclusivity, while a trendy clothing store might opt for brighter lighting to cultivate an energetic atmosphere. In short, thoughtful lighting design should be considered by any retailer looking to elevate the shopping experience and drive sales.

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INDUSTRIAL SPACES

Safety, visibility and durability are at the forefront of a designer’s mind when tackling lighters for industrial spaces. Not only is high-performance lighting required to ensure employees can perform their tasks effectively and navigate the workspace, the rigours of the work environment means that fixtures must be exceptionally robust and long-lasting.


Selecting durable materials is essential for functionality in industrial lighting, especially given exposure to dust, moisture, and varying temperatures. Energy-efficient solutions like LED fixtures are favoured for their longevity and reduced energy consumption, leading to lower operational costs and maintenance needs. These benefits not only save money but also promote a more sustainable operation.

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HOSPITALITY SPACES

Lighting is crucial from the moment guests enter the lobby. Warm downlighting creates an inviting atmosphere, while strategically placed fixtures highlight architectural features and guide guests further into the space. At the same time, adequate task lighting for servers and kitchen staff is essential to ensure they can perform their duties without disrupting the carefully crafted ambience in guest areas.

 

By balancing atmosphere and functionality, hospitality venues can offer memorable experiences that encourage guests to return.

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WHAT ARE THE PRACTICALITIES OF COMMERCIAL LIGHTING DESIGN?

 

CONSIDERING ATMOSPHERE

Factors such as brightness, colour temperature, and lumens significantly influence how a space feels and functions. For instance, warmer colour temperatures can evoke a sense of comfort and relaxation, making them ideal for hospitality venues, while cooler tones may be more suitable for office environments that require focus and productivity. 

The appropriate level of brightness ensures that spaces are adequately lit for their intended purposes, whether that’s encouraging interaction in a social setting or enabling precise work tasks. By carefully considering these elements, our designers can craft an ambience that enhances the overall experience for occupants and visitors alike.

CHOOSING FUNCTIONAL FITTINGS

No matter how detailed, lighting plans aren’t worth much without the appropriate fixtures to bring them to life. Downtime due to repairs, replacements, or maintenance can disrupt business operations, even if only for a short time. That’s why Lightplan focuses on implementing durable and long-lasting fixtures, ensuring your commercial operations run smoothly without interruptions.

Similarly, energy-efficient fittings can lead to significant savings over time by reducing your energy bills, while the strategic placement of fixtures based on model and output makes the best use of available space. The result is a lighting scheme that addresses operational needs without sacrificing quality or style.

ADHERING TO REGULATIONS

From Part L of the Building Regulations 2010 to the British standards code of practice, there is a plethora of health, safety and security regulations that need to be considered with commercial spaces. An eye-catching light plan that is not up to code is not fit for purpose, and can ultimately have financial or legal consequences.

Collaborating with professional lighting designers guarantees a final product that is not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also compliant with legal standards, potentially saving you from a headache further down the line.


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LIGHTPLAN'S PROCESS FOR COMMERCIAL LIGHTING DESIGN

Initial Consultation - The process begins with an initial consultation where we discuss your ideas, vision, and specific lighting needs to ensure we understand your objectives.


Site Visit - A thorough site visit follows, allowing us to take precise measurements and familiarise ourselves with the unique characteristics of the space.


Design - Our design phase involves creating detailed drawings and using CAD technology to visualise the lighting layout and ensure optimal functionality and aesthetics.


Proposal - We then provide a comprehensive specification and proposal, outlining the costs associated with the project to keep you informed and aligned with your budget.


Procurement - Lightplan handles the procurement of fittings from our trusted suppliers, ensuring that you receive high-quality products suited to your design.


Installation - Finally, we oversee the installation process to ensure that everything is executed according to the design specifications and meets our high standards of quality.


READY TO TRANSFORM YOUR SPACE?

Whether you’re revamping an office space, designing a retail store or something in-between, the Lightplan team is here to guide you every step of the way.


Get started today by getting in touch at 0208 342 7009 or projects@lightplan.co.uk, or complete our Contact Form to arrange a call back.