When it comes to installing a study or office space in the comfort of your own home the quality and character of illuminating your surroundings is paramount. Good lighting can help with productivity, creativity and also benefits you on a health and safety level. Poor lighting can cause eye strain and headaches which can affect your work progress.

Try to avoid a direct glare of light; diffusing the light will create a subtle and equal ambience. Lamp shades are great for diffusing light or opt for up-lighters to bounce light along the ceiling as oppose to one harsh ceiling light. You’re aiming to create a subtle light without glare and shadows.

When setting up your work areas keep in mind any natural light that may shine into the room, for instance if your window is opposite a computer there may be a chance of glare appearing on the screen, this can easily be rectified with some window blinds or  a glare screen. Not all natural light can be a nuisance however; sunlight can improve your working environment by creating a warm atmosphere.

Another tip is to avoid shadow casts on work surfaces. For writing, drawing and painting, depending on whether you are left or right handed you should have your light source on the opposite side, for example if you are right handed make sure the light is produced from the left so your right hand and arm don’t create a shadow cast.

For work that requires focus and attention such as filing and reading it’s best to choose a lamp with an adjustable head that will direct a pool of light on to a specific areas. This type of lighting is known as task lighting as it is specifically designed to adjust and bend to suit the task in hand. If you have several work stations, make sure there is a task light situated in each area.

Finally, think about decorative lighting, you can create extra ambience and more character for your home study by adding corner lighting or picture lights to emphasise works of art or wipe boards