THE #1 OFFICE AMENITY?

NATURAL
LIGHT
JORDAN DORIA, SENIOR MARKETING MANAGER
APR. 25, 2019

Daylight makes employees better

There is good news though. Workers say that access to natural light and views (more
on views in a moment) enhances their overall workplace experience, specifically:

78% “improve overall happiness and well-being”

73% “improve workplace satisfaction”

70% “improve workplace performance”

54% “improve organizational commitment”

This also correlates with our survey data which showed people feel daylight
enhances their mood, energy and perceived productivity levels.  
Daylight makes employees better

Can’t forget views

The “Employee Experience” survey evaluated daylight and views together, so data
reflect workers’ perceptions of both factors. There is some logic here as the two are
closely related. However, they also found a benefit specifically for views to the
outdoors. Over half of those surveyed stated that protracted screen use results in
eye strain or headaches. 73% said that this causes them to want a visual break, such
as taking a walk or just spending a few moments to enjoy a view to the outdoors.
Unfortunately, views can often by impeded. Our survey found that, of those office
workers who claim to get daylight at all, blinds were obstructing views at least half
the workday.

Daylight and views are under-marketed

The HBR article points out a direct connection between this desire for natural light
and views and the broader trend towards designing workplaces to support occupant
well-being. In short, the market is asking for this…in fact it’s why amenities like
fitness centers and health-focused cafeterias are also front of mind for today’s
workers. Occupants want to know how well a space supports their needs, and
increasingly well-being is one of their top needs. This offers building developers,
owners and designers a unique opportunity for differentiation in the market. The
data suggests today’s workers value daylight and views, as part of a broader focus on
wellness, but it is not marketed accordingly. The demand is there; it is up to the
market to capitalize on it