Solar Shading: Enhancing Health and Productivity in UK Commercial Spaces In a modern workspace, people are the most valuable asset. In fact, up to 90% of operating costs in commercial office buildings are attributable to staff (British Council for Offices, 2019). Investing in workplace comfort and wellbeing is not just good practice; it’s critical for business performance. Solar shading plays a pivotal role in supporting this goal by enhancing indoor environmental quality. Why Indoor Environments Matter The UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) notes that the indoor environment can significantly influence comfort, concentration and productivity. With most of us spending nearly 90% of our time indoors (BRE, 2022), buildings that offer controlled lighting, optimal temperatures and a connection to the outdoors are key to healthy living and working. Problems with uncontrolled indoor environments include: Discomfort from high or low temperatures, reducing concentration and manual dexterity (CIBSE Guide A). Increased risk of Sick Building Syndrome with overheating, especially in sealed buildings. Poor daylight access impacting circadian rhythms, mental health and sleep quality (UKGBC, 2021). Inadequate ventilation and rising internal temperatures affecting air quality. Reduced employee engagement and performance due to thermal discomfort and visual strain. The Role of Solar Shading in Workplace Wellbeing Solar shading regulates sunlight, reduces solar gain and diffuses natural daylight evenly across interior spaces. When integrated properly, it plays a fundamental role in maintaining thermal, visual and psychological comfort, contributing to improved productivity and health outcomes. 1. Maintaining Optimal Indoor Temperatures Solar shading helps prevent overheating, maintaining indoor temperatures between 20-24°C — the optimal comfort range identified by CIBSE. Shading reduces reliance on mechanical cooling systems, lowers energy costs and avoids occupant discomfort linked to temperature extremes. 2. Supporting Visual Comfort and Daylight Access Uncontrolled glare can reduce screen visibility, lead to eye strain and increase use of artificial lighting. According to the Lighting Industry Association, maintaining consistent natural light levels enhances wellbeing and reduces energy consumption. Dynamic solar shading systems manage external brightness, allowing effective daylight harvesting. Daylight exposure is also linked to improved cognitive performance. A 2021 report by the UK Green Building Council highlighted that employees in well-lit environments with outdoor views report higher satisfaction and focus. 3. Reducing Absenteeism and Enhancing Focus The Building Research Establishment (BRE) found that improving indoor environmental quality, including glare reduction and daylighting, can lower absenteeism by up to 15%. Similarly, performance on memory and cognitive tasks improves when occupants have natural light access and uninterrupted views. Productivity: A Tangible Return on Investment Even marginal improvements in comfort lead to measurable business benefits. According to the British Council for Offices, a 1% increase in employee productivity delivers a greater return than annual energy costs for the same space. For example, if a company spends £500,000 annually on salaries, just a 1% boost in productivity is worth £5,000 per year often more than the annual maintenance cost of high-quality shading systems. In schools and hospitals, where wellbeing is directly tied to outcomes, the impact is equally significant. A Danish study cited by CIBSE found students performed better at 20°C than at higher indoor temperatures, reinforcing the importance of environmental control in learning spaces. Solar Shading in Practice Well-designed commercial spaces across the UK are already demonstrating the value of shading: Retail and Hospitality: Balanced light enhances the environment for customers and improves staff comfort. Offices: Employees experience reduced glare, improved focus and fewer complaints about temperature. Healthcare: Shading improves patient rest and supports hygiene through air flow and daylight regulation. Education: Schools use shading to maintain comfort without over-reliance on artificial lighting or HVAC. Conclusion: A Smarter, Healthier Workplace Solar shading isn’t just an energy-saving tool; it’s a human-centred design feature. By reducing glare, controlling temperatures and enhancing daylight access, it contributes directly to staff wellbeing, customer satisfaction and measurable business performance. At Bright A Blind, we help UK businesses design and install smart, responsive solar shading systems tailored to occupant needs and climate conditions. We work with architects, designers and facilities teams to ensure every space supports wellbeing, comfort and productivity. Book a free survey today. For more information call 020 7700 6000 or send an enquiry.
