CASE STUDY | LDN-W OFFICES Black to the future There has been a shift to lower light levels and use of darkness in the workplace, according to BDPs Colin Ball, who cites the refurbished London office building LDN-W as a prime example T here has been much discussion and research in recent years on productivity and concentration in the workplace, and how brighter ceilings and cooler temperatures improve peoples wellbeing. Vertical and horizontal surfaces are illuminated according to the tasks taking place lux ratios, which can be translated very simply: our eye/brain system evolved to be awake during daylight hours and to contemplate is perhaps encapsulated by hygge the moment. contrast. What has been interesting is that, when these daylight spaces are allowed to darken down, our clients do not want them brighter. Instead, they 38 December 2021 www.cibsejournal.com CIBSE Dec21 pp38-40 LDN-W offices Supp.indd 38 26/11/2021 16:50