Office Lighting Guide 2025: UGR, Colour Temperature & Smart Control Options
Designing an office that feels professional, looks modern, and meets standards isn’t complicated when you focus on the fundamentals: correct lux levels, UGR < 19 glare control, the right colour temperature (CCT), and appropriate mounting/control options. This 2025 refresh covers what to choose and why — with contractor-grade options from Seven LED, including UGR 19 panels, black-frame UGR panels (CCT-switchable), and the design-led Horizon Frame Panel.
Office lighting standards (UK) — the essentials
For typical office tasks at computer workstations, UK guidance (e.g., CIBSE LG7 / HSE) points to:
- 300–500 lux on the desk plane for general office areas (500 lux is common for open-plan).
- UGR < 19 glare control for display screen equipment (DSE) workstations.
- Uniform, low-flicker light with good colour rendering (CRI ~80+).
| Area | Target Illuminance (lux) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Open-plan offices | 500 | UGR < 19 recommended |
| Cell/Private offices | 300–500 | Match task type; UGR < 19 near screens |
| Meeting rooms | 300–500 | Consider dimming and scene control |
| Corridors | 100–200 | Emergency coverage typically required |
| Reception | 300–500 | Blend task & visual impact |
Tip: Start with 500 lux for open-plan areas and tune locally with controls.
Understanding UGR (Unified Glare Rating)
UGR < 19 limits discomfort glare so screens are easier on the eyes over long periods. The optics, diffuser, and frame design all contribute. Popular options:
- UGR 19 white-frame panels — the compliant, clean look for most offices.
- UGR 19 black-frame panels — reduce perceived glare further and add a contemporary aesthetic.
- Horizon borderless frame panel — even spread with a frameless, design-first finish.
Colour temperature (CCT) in offices
Choose CCT to suit the task and feel of the space:
- 3000 K (Warm White): relaxed ambience — breakout areas, lounges.
- 4000 K (Neutral White): balanced & natural — the UK default for most office areas.
- 5000 K (Cool Neutral): crisp “daylight-like” clarity — great for design/detail-oriented zones without the harshness of 6000 K.
- 6000 K (Cool Daylight): very bright/clinical — print rooms, inspection, back-of-house where maximum contrast helps.
Why CCT-switchable panels help
- One SKU, multiple outcomes: dial 4000/5000/6000 K on site per room.
- Future flexibility: adjust after occupancy feedback without swapping fittings.
- Spec simplicity: fewer variants to procure and hold in stock.
| CCT | Look & Feel | Typical Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3000 K | Warm, relaxed | Breakout, reception lounge | Softer ambience, less “officey” |
| 4000 K | Neutral, natural | Open-plan, meeting rooms | Default for desk work |
| 5000 K | Crisp, high clarity | Design studios, detailed tasks | “Daylight-like” without 6000 K harshness |
| 6000 K | Very cool/clinical | Print rooms, inspection | Maximum perceived brightness |
Mounting & finish options
- Recessed (grid ceilings): fast install and a flush, minimal finish.
- Surface-mounted: use surface-mount frames available in white and black to match the finish of your UGR (Helios) panels; ideal where no suspended ceiling exists.
- Suspended kits: perfect for exposed soffits or when you want architectural separation from services.
- Drivers & controls: options across the range for DALI, emergency, and CCT-switchable (4K/5K/6K).
Energy, reliability & ROI
- Up to ~60% energy reduction compared with fluorescent panels, with instant-on and low maintenance.
- 5-year warranty on contractor-grade fittings.
- Controls ROI: add presence/daylight sensors or DALI scenes in meeting rooms and open-plan areas to cut runtime.
Which panel where? — quick comparison
| Type | Key Feature | Best For | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| UGR 19 Panel (White) | Anti-glare, compliant for DSE | Open-plan offices, general areas | View product |
| UGR 19 Panel (Black) | Design-led, reduced perceived glare | Modern offices, studio-style spaces | View product |
| Horizon Frame Panel | Borderless, premium aesthetic | Design-driven interiors, receptions | View product |
| CCT-Switchable Panels | 4K/5K/6K on one SKU | Fit-outs needing on-site tuning | Shop collection |
| DALI & Emergency Options | Smart scenes, compliance backup | Large offices, corridors/escape routes | Shop collection |
FAQs
What lux level should an office have?
Most open-plan offices target 500 lux. Private offices and meeting rooms often sit between 300–500 lux. Add controls to fine-tune for screens and tasks.
Do I need UGR < 19?
Yes — for DSE work it’s best practice to specify UGR < 19 to control glare and improve visual comfort.
Can I surface-mount panels without a grid ceiling?
Yes — use surface-mount frames (available in white and black to match your panel frames) or consider a suspended kit for exposed soffits.
Should I choose 4000 K, 5000 K, or 6000 K?
4000 K is the safe default for most offices. Use 5000 K for detail-oriented areas (design, sampling) and 6000 K for print/inspection spaces.
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