Commercial Lighting Shopping Guide

A professional space must be ergonomic and welcoming for both employees and customers. That is why lighting for commercial spaces is very important, as it directly affects the atmosphere and functionality of the area. You must, therefore, carefully choose the fixtures and equipment that will comprise the professional lighting of your business. There are many factors to consider to ensure you purchase the right lighting fixtures for your needs. Below is a detailed guide to help you prepare for your purchase of professional lighting:

Step 1: Determine Your Needs:

First of all, determine exactly what the lighting needs are in the professional space. Which areas do you want to illuminate? What kind of activity will be taking place? This will help you narrow down specific lighting options. Understanding the use and activities that will occur in your commercial space is vital for choosing the right lighting. For example:

Office Lighting:

Lighting in workspaces such as offices significantly affects the productivity, comfort, and well-being of employees. Here are some factors to consider when choosing lighting for offices and other workspaces:

• Brightness: Adequate brightness is vital for office work. Lighting should be bright enough to prevent eye fatigue and enhance concentration.
• Uniform Lighting: It is important for lighting to be evenly distributed throughout the space, avoiding shadows and inconsistencies.
• Natural Light: If possible, the use of natural light is preferred. Windows and glass surfaces can allow natural light to pass through, improving the atmosphere.
• Adjustable Lighting: Certain activities require different lighting levels. Lighting should be adjustable, allowing employees to adapt the light according to their needs.
• Light Color: The color of the lighting is also important. Cool-toned light is recommended for tasks requiring precision; neutral is not tiring for the eyes, while warm light can be used for more relaxing activities.
• Energy Efficiency: LED lighting is extremely energy-efficient and reduces energy costs.
• Glare Avoidance: Lighting should be properly positioned so as not to cause visual discomfort, such as reflections on computer screens.

Industrial Space Lighting:

Lighting in industrial spaces is particularly important, as it affects the safety, productivity, and work performance of employees. Industrial spaces may include factories, warehouses, workshops, and other professional facilities. Here are some important factors to consider when choosing lighting for industrial spaces:

• Brightness and Uniform Lighting: In industrial areas, where tasks requiring precision are often carried out, adequate brightness and uniform lighting are needed to avoid accidents and errors.
• Energy Saving: Energy saving is important for industrial spaces. LED lighting provides high energy efficiency and reduces operating costs.
• Durability: Due to the harsh conditions in industrial areas, fixtures must be resistant to dust, moisture, vibrations, and damage. Therefore, you should choose fixtures with a high ingress protection rating (IP) and high impact protection rating (IK).
• Safety: In industrial spaces, lighting is critical for employee safety. Sufficient brightness must be ensured to prevent accidents, and the area should also be equipped with emergency lighting.
• Adjustability: In some cases, such as in laboratories, it is useful to have the ability to adjust brightness to suit the needs of each task.
• Temperature Management: LED lighting generates less heat compared to traditional bulbs, helping to maintain pleasant temperatures in the space.

Restaurant and Cafe Lighting:

Lighting in restaurants and cafes is important for creating a pleasant and comfortable atmosphere for customers. Here are some factors to consider when choosing lighting for restaurants and cafes:

• Atmosphere and Decor: Lighting plays a significant role in creating the ambiance of the space. It depends on the style and decor of the shop, but soft and warm lighting is usually preferred to create a relaxed atmosphere.
• Focus: Lighting should focus on the tables and areas where customers are located. Light must be bright enough at the tables to allow for comfortable menu reading. For this reason, general lighting is often lower, and portable rechargeable table lamps are placed on the tables.
• Adjustable Lighting: Lighting should be adjustable so it can be adapted according to the time of day and the atmosphere you wish to create.
• Energy Efficiency: Since lighting is continuous, choosing LED fixtures that provide high energy efficiency is economical and sustainable.
• Light Color: The color of the lighting should be appropriately chosen to highlight the food and make it look attractive.
• Aesthetics: The design aspects of the fixtures should match the aesthetics of the establishment. The lighting design can add elements of personality and style.
• Avoidance of Distracting Light: Avoid excessive brightness or distracting lighting that can negatively affect the customer experience.

Retail Store and Shop Window Lighting:

Lighting in stores and shop windows is critical for displaying products, creating an attractive atmosphere, and attracting customers. Here are some factors to consider when choosing lighting for stores and shop windows:

• Impact on Display: Lighting should be designed to highlight products and make them appear more attractive. Different areas of the store or window may require different lighting levels and types of fixtures. General lighting of the space with panels, ceiling lights, etc., is important, but accent lighting, e.g., spotlights, is equally important to emphasize your products.
• Light Color: The color of the light can affect how product colors are perceived. It is important to choose light that does not distort colors but enhances them.
• Adjustability: Lighting should be adjustable so that it can be adapted according to the type of products on display and the promotional needs.
• Energy and Duration: Commercial spaces usually operate for many hours. Therefore, choosing fixtures with high energy efficiency and a long lifespan is important.
• Atmosphere Creation: Lighting can be used to create a specific atmosphere in the store, depending on the type of products and the store's goals.
• Aesthetics: Lighting can serve as a decorative element and add style to the store.
• Attention to Windows: Shop windows require special attention, as the lighting must be capable of making the products stand out, even at night.

Conference and Educational Space Lighting:

Lighting in conference and educational spaces plays a significant role in creating a pleasant and functional atmosphere. Here are some factors to consider when choosing lighting for these spaces:

• Ensuring Good Visibility: In conference and educational spaces, good visibility is critical. Lighting must be capable of ensuring good brightness and uniform light throughout the space.
• Adjustability: Lighting should be adjustable to adapt to the type of activity taking place. For example, the brightness required for a lecture may differ from that required for a screening.
• Energy Efficiency: Due to long operating hours, choosing fixtures with high energy efficiency can reduce energy costs.
• Attention to Light Color: The color of the lighting can affect attention, concentration, and individual performance. A natural white light is usually preferred for these spaces, but it may also be useful to have the ability to adjust the light color.
• Independent Systems: In some cases, it may be useful to have different lighting systems for different areas of the space, offering flexibility in space usage.
• Collaboration with Technology: In educational spaces, lighting can be combined with technological solutions, such as projectors or screens, for improved display of presentations.

Medical Space Lighting:

Lighting in medical spaces and hospitals is critical for safety, ease of use, and the well-being of patients and medical staff. Here are some factors to consider when choosing lighting for these spaces:

• Ensuring Accuracy and Clarity: In medical spaces, it is vital to ensure lighting accuracy and clarity, as detecting any conditions requires precise viewing.
• Light Color: Lighting should consist of natural white light (4000+ Kelvin), adjusted so as not to distort the colors of medical exams or tools.
• Shadowing and Uniform Lighting: It is important to avoid very strong shadows and aim for uniform lighting to facilitate work and the detection of any problems.
• Protection from Unwanted Reflections: Lighting must be designed to avoid unwanted reflections on surfaces, so as not to affect diagnosis and treatment.
• Light Distribution: Lighting must be distributed evenly throughout the space without causing strong contrasts.
• Easy Maintenance: Due to sanitary requirements, lighting must be easy to clean and maintain.

Outdoor Professional Space Lighting:

Lighting in outdoor professional spaces is critical for the aesthetics, safety, and functionality of the area. It is important to consider the following factors when choosing lighting for outdoor commercial spaces:

• Safety: Outdoor professional lighting must ensure good visibility for employees and customers, reducing the risk of accidents and providing a sense of security.
• Space Projection: Lighting can be used to highlight and emphasize important areas of the space, such as entrances, hallways, and signs. It can also highlight impressive elements of the space, such as a fountain or a tree, using spotlights, wall washers, or projectors.
• Aesthetics: Lighting can improve the aesthetics of the space, creating a pleasant atmosphere for employees and customers.
• Energy Efficiency: Using energy-efficient lighting solutions can reduce energy costs and protect the environment.
• Durability and Resistance: Fixtures must be made of durable materials that can withstand time and weather conditions. They should also be waterproof (IP rated).
• Adjustability: Lighting should be adjustable so that it can be adapted according to the activity taking place.

In summary, understanding the activities that will take place in your professional space helps you choose the right lighting that will provide the required brightness, atmosphere, and functionality.

Step 2: Choosing the Type of Professional Lighting Fixtures:

.There are many types of lighting fixtures for professional use, such as panels, spots, projectors, and more. Choose the type that best suits your space and your specific needs.

Floodlights & Projectors:

Floodlights and projectors are used for directional lighting; they can be rotatable or tilting to provide emphasis and highlight specific areas. 

LED Panels:

LED panels offer uniform, bright, and energy-efficient lighting. They are primarily used in offices and other professional workspaces.

Linear Lighting:

Linear lighting fixtures create harmonious illumination over large surfaces. They can be installed along walls or ceilings, ensuring ample light and a minimalist aesthetic. 

LED Strips:

LED strips are flexible and ergonomic. They can be placed around objects, on store counters, or even in outdoor areas to highlight specific points of the space or create indirect lighting effects.

Track Lighting:

Track spots are versatile and can be mounted on track systems, offering easy adjustment of light direction. They provide the possibility of extending fixtures to create a large unified system with multiple spots that can be adjusted independently to highlight specific points or provide rich, uniform light. 

Emergency Lighting:

Emergency lighting fixtures are used to highlight exit points in case of an emergency, such as a fire or a power outage.

Street & Area Lights:

Street lights are intended for illuminating outdoor areas such as roads, parks, and sidewalks. They are made of durable materials and feature high degrees of waterproofing and impact protection.

Spots:

Spotlights are used to create interesting lighting layers, adding a decorative element. They can be installed on ceilings, walls, floors, fountains, pools, and parking lots, as their role is to highlight specific spots and create impressive, ergonomic lighting.

Outdoor Fixtures:

High-quality fixtures for outdoor lighting, such as gardens, terraces, parking lots, sidewalks, etc. Outdoor lighting fixtures are waterproof and made from materials that withstand weather conditions.

Ceiling Lights:

Ceiling lights provide uniform lighting and can be used in various professional spaces. 

Wall Lights:

Wall lights offer architectural lighting or highlight specific decorations, creating interesting shadows and atmosphere. They are commonly used in restaurants, hotels, and shops.

Floor Lamps:

Floor lamps provide auxiliary lighting and are typically used to create atmosphere in hotels, restaurants, and reception areas.

Solar Lights:

Solar lights are an innovative and environmentally friendly lighting solution. Due to the integrated solar panel, solar lights are autonomous and do not require the installation of cables or complex systems; therefore, they can be placed anywhere without restrictions and can provide lighting to remote areas, improving their safety.

Light Bulbs:

There is a wide variety of bulbs for use in professional lighting fixtures. However, the best choice is LED bulbs, as they offer more light while consuming less energy.

Profiles:

Aluminum profiles are components combined with LED strips or LED bulbs for decorative or functional lighting. They offer a variety of designs and customization options.

By choosing the appropriate fixtures for your professional space, you can create the right lighting that promotes productivity, aesthetics, and safety.

Step 3: Choosing the Brightness of Professional Lighting:

The brightness that professional lighting fixtures must provide depends on the specific type of commercial space, the functions performed there, the activities, and the lighting requirements of the people working there. Brightness is measured in lumens and plays a significant role in creating appropriate lighting for a professional environment. Suitable brightness values can vary depending on the type of business, the needs of the employees, the activities, and the specific requirements of the space. For example:

Brightness in Offices:

In professional offices, brightness can range from approximately 300-500 lumens per square meter for basic lighting, while for tasks requiring high precision (such as graphic arts), approximately 500-1000 lumens per square meter may be required.

Brightness in Retail Stores:

Lighting in commercial stores depends on the product category and the aesthetic you wish to create. Values can range from 750 lumens to 3000 lumens or more per square meter.

Brightness in Restaurants and Cafes:

Lighting in restaurants and cafes depends on the atmosphere you want to create. Values can range from 500 lumens for low ambient lighting up to 2000 lumens or more per square meter.

It is important to consult a lighting specialist or an engineer to evaluate the exact lighting needs of your professional space, taking into account the parameters mentioned above.

Step 4: Choose the Light Color:

The ideal light color (Kelvin) for professional spaces depends on the nature of the activities carried out in those areas. The unit of measurement for light color is Kelvin (K), and for commercial spaces, the following Kelvin ranges are typically chosen:

• Warm White (2700K - 3000K): This range simulates the light of traditional incandescent bulbs. It is suitable for areas where you want a cozy and friendly atmosphere, such as restaurants, cafes, hotels and more.
• Neutral White (4000K - 4500K): This range simulates sunlight at noon. It is suitable for offices, retail stores, conference rooms, and other spaces where good visibility and readability are required.
• Cool White (5000K - 6500K): This range is suitable for factories, industrial production and processing areas, as well as spaces where absolute visibility and precision are necessary.

Step 5: Choose the Quality of Professional Lighting Fixtures:

Professional lighting fixtures can be manufactured from various materials, depending on functional requirements, style, and aesthetic preferences:

• Aluminum: Aluminum is lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant, making it ideal for many professional spaces. It offers a modern look and is easy to shape.
• Steel: Steel is strong, hard, and long-lasting. It is often used in industrial areas where high durability is required.
• Glass: Glass offers elegance and transparency. It can be clear, opaque, or feature special textures to create decorative effects.
• Plastic (Polycarbonate, Polyester, PVC, Acrylic, ABS): Plastic materials are lightweight and versatile. They provide durability, are suitable for outdoor use, and are resistant to chemicals and impacts.
• Metal: Metals such as brass, iron, and bronze provide a retro or traditional aesthetic. They are robust and resistant to the passage of time.
• Gypsum (Plaster): Gypsum is used for decorative fixtures and offers unique designs and textures. Plaster fixtures are usually paintable.
• Wood: Wood provides a natural and warm feel. It is mainly used in interiors to create a welcoming atmosphere and a rustic aesthetic.
• Fabric: Fabric fixtures offer soft brightness and diffuse light, creating a relaxing atmosphere, which is why they are preferred mainly in cafes and lounge areas.
• Material Combinations: Many fixtures combine different materials to create unique designs and aesthetics. In this case, they combine the advantages of each material, often resulting in more durable, impressive, and ergonomic lighting.

Step 6: Choose the Color of the Fixtures:

The choice of colors for professional lighting fixtures depends on the overall design of the space, the type of business, and the message you want to convey. Some colors you can choose for your professional lighting fixtures include:

• White: White is a classic and clean color that suits many professional spaces. It is ideal for offices, retail stores, as well as food-related businesses.
• Black: Black creates an impressive and sophisticated atmosphere. It is often used in modern professional environments to add an air of dynamism.
• Grey: Grey tones offer balance and elegance. They are suitable for professional spaces seeking a modern and discreet design.
• Anthracite: Anthracite is a deep color that creates a strong and dynamic feel. It can be used to add intensity and depth to spaces such as bars and cafes.
• Gold and Bronze: Gold and bronze colors offer luxury and shine. They are ideal for restaurants, hotels, and other professional venues aiming to create an upscale atmosphere.
• Green: Green represents nature and creates a sense of freshness and renewal. It is suitable for professional spaces aiming to project an eco-friendly and welcoming environment.
• Red: Red is dynamic and passionate. It can be used to add energy and intensity, and it is typically used skillfully in decorative accents.

In short, the choice of colors for professional lighting fixtures depends on the style, aesthetics, and the message you want to communicate through your space. Always choose colors that harmonize with the rest of the decor and evoke pleasant emotions.

Step 7: Check if You Need Connection Accessories:

Professional lighting connection accessories refer to various accessories and components used for the connection, mounting, safety, and installation of professional lighting fixtures. These components ensure that the fixtures operate efficiently, safely, and in accordance with standards. Some of the most common professional lighting connection accessories are:

• Cables and Extension Cords: Cables are essential for carrying electrical current from the power source to the fixture. Extension cords can be used to extend the reach of the wiring.
• Plugs and Sockets: These components are used to connect cables to the power source and the fixture. It is important that they are correctly installed to ensure safe operation.
• Dimmers: Dimmers are used to adjust the lighting intensity according to needs. It is important to choose controllers that are compatible with the specific fixtures you are using.
• Mounts – Wall and Ceiling Profiles: Mounts are used to support fixtures on walls or ceilings. They must be durable and suitable for the weight of the fixture.
• Rings, Chains, and Supports: These components are used for suspending fixtures from ceilings or structural frameworks.
• Connectors and Power Supplies: Used for the easy and safe connection of cables, either to each other or to the lighting fixtures.
• Concealed Connection Systems: These systems are used to hide cables and provide a clean, professional appearance.

Each type of professional lighting fixture may require different connection accessories, depending on the requirements of the specific light and the installation environment. It is important to choose high-quality materials and components for the safety and reliability of your lighting.

Concluding this buying guide for professional lighting, we hope you found valuable information and tips to help you make the right decisions for the lighting needs of your professional space. Professional lighting is not just about brightness, but also about creating atmosphere, increasing productivity, and improving aesthetics. Explore the wide variety of professional lighting fixtures offered by designdrops. Specializing in quality and original professional lighting, designdrops provides you with a curated collection that covers all your requirements. Don't forget to also take a look at the furniture, linens, decorations, and rugs at designdrops, to equip your professional space with the very best!

We hope you succeed in creating a bright, functional, and aesthetically pleasing professional environment with the help of the right lighting!

At designdrops you will find lighting buying guides and lighting cleaning guides, which contain valuable tips for choosing the ideal lighting fixtures and keeping them like new!