Lux Levels for Offices: A Complete Reference
A zone-by-zone lux reference for offices, calibrated to EN 12464-1 and IS 3646.
Zone-by-Zone Reference
| Zone | Lux | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Open-plan desks | 500 | Working plane 0.75m, UGR ≤ 19 |
| Private offices | 500 | Personal dimming recommended |
| Meeting rooms | 300–500 | Dimmable, scene control |
| Boardrooms | 500 | High CRI, scenes for video conferencing |
| Reception | 200–300 | Plus accents on signage, art |
| Circulation / corridors | 100–200 | Energy-efficient, PIR-controlled |
| Breakout / canteen | 200–300 | Warmer CCT, 3000K acceptable |
| Focus rooms | 300 | Personal control essential |
| Server / IT rooms | 200 | Cool CCT, maintenance only |
What These Numbers Are
These targets meet EN 12464-1 and IS 3646. They are minimums on the working plane, with uniformity (U0) ≥ 0.60 across the working area.
Common Mistakes
- Designing to a single average lux for the whole floor
- Ignoring uniformity
- Cool CCT in breakout and canteen zones
- No daylight integration on perimeter
Professional Recommendation
Set targets per zone, not per floor. Verify in DIALux. Check uniformity, not just average lux.
Lighting Intelligence by Alya
At Ashwamedha Design Solutions, this is part of our Lighting Intelligence practice, every recommendation is validated through DIALux simulation, lux calculations and visual comfort analysis before it reaches a construction site. Alya, our lighting intelligence platform, packages this thinking into reusable design tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 500 lux too bright?+
It is the EN standard for desk-based work. Lower lux causes eye strain over an 8-hour day.
Can I use task lighting to top up lower ambient?+
Yes, ambient at 300 lux + task at 500 lux is a recognised, energy-efficient strategy.
Related Service
Commercial Lighting Design
See how this thinking is applied on live projects.
Need help applying this to your project?
Our team can review your space and turn these ideas into a measured lighting design.