Contribution of Natural Lighting in Workspaces to Visual Comfort Improving User Productivity

Department of Architecture and Planning, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Gadjah Mada, D.I Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

^* Corresponding author: ingridvicaningrum3098@mail.ugm.ac.id syam.r.m@ugm.ac.id

Abstract

Visual comfort is an essential aspect of workspace interior design, especially architecture studios where creativity and productivity can affect the health and well-being of users. Poor visual conditions can lead to eyestrain, headaches, and decreased work productivity. This study the factors that affect visual comfort in architecture studio workspaces against user perceptions. This research method uses SketchUp simulation experiments, VR (Virtual Reality), and questionnaires to determine the user’s response to visual comfort in the architecture studio workspace. The variables used in this evaluation look at the amount of light entering, window openings (WWR), wall materials and colors, perceptions of visual comfort, and work productivity. The results showed that natural lighting plays an important role in creating visual comfort, with the right lighting intensity, so that it has a positive impact on user health. In addition, the use of bright wall colors such as white and orange tends to make a positive contribution to the user’s visual environment which can directly improve work performance and productivity. This study proves that workspace design with the right lighting and color selection can have a positive visual impact on users with sustainable lighting distribution techniques and methods.