Fernández Molina offices have been transformed through an advanced dynamic lighting system designed to mimic the solar cycle. This cutting-edge solution not only optimises artificial light to improve employee well-being, but also boosts productivity. The lighting designers responsible for the project chose to collaborate with KUMUX due to its comprehensive approach, which integrates circadian science, design, and aesthetics. By translating the proven health benefits of natural light into artificial environments, KUMUX delivers a positive impact on human health.
Fernández Molina is a Spanish construction company founded in 1969, and headquartered in Madrid. It is known for its commitment to quality and sustainability, principles it applies to every one of its projects, including its offices, which hold the LEED Platinum certification.
This commitment extends not only to its clients but also to its employees, prioritising the creation of workspaces that offer the best conditions. As such, the offices are designed to make the most of natural light and window shades are automated to prevent glare at certain times of the day.
To enhance employee well-being, boost productivity, and ensure compliance with the WELL Building Standard, Ximena Rubio, project's lighting designer, selected KUMUX to upgrade the lighting system. KUMUX's expertise and advanced technology guaranteed both compliance with the required standards and the delivery of dynamic human-centred lighting. This solution not only fulfils Fernández Molina's project requirements but also adds value by using KUMUX’s system to prevent disruptions to employees’ circadian rhythms during the workday.
The main challenge for Ximena Rubio was creating a lighting design to retrofit the lighting system with minimal changes in the existing installation. The new system was required to focus on human needs, but also energy efficiency, by maintaining sensors that adjust lighting based on natural light levels and occupancy.
XAL MITA and BETO luminaires were used to create the lighting layout, chosen for their low glare (UGR < 16 / 19), high colour rendering index (CRI > 80), and adjustable spectrum through colour temperature, ranging from warm white (2700K) to cool white (6500K).
The KUMUX Platform was key to creating and automating lighting profiles year-round, using AI algorithms that take into account factors like location, time of day, building type, lighting design, the luminaires spectral characteristics, and compliance with lighting standards. By adjusting the lighting based on these elements, the system helps create a more comfortable and productive environment, reducing eye strain and improving work efficiency.
For the project, KUMUX developed a series of customised lighting settings based on the luminaires’ characteristics, to comply with the WELL Building Standard and Lighting Research Center guidelines. By applying the latest science of light and well-being for work environments, KUMUX created a dynamic system that optimises lighting based on the time of day to improve both employee efficiency and well-being.
In the morning, the configurations incorporate a spectrum of light rich in blue wavelengths to maintain alertness and concentration, improving performance and reducing fatigue. In the afternoon and evening, exposure to blue light decreases to protect the natural circadian rhythm, easing the transition to rest and promoting better sleep. These configurations, which continuously adapt throughout the day all year, not only increase productivity, but also prioritise employee health, minimising the risks of sleep disorders and stress.
Surveys were conducted after the system was installed to evaluate its effectiveness. The results showed that 84% of employees were satisfied with the KUMUX system and would recommend it. Additionally, 50% of employees reported reduced eye strain, even when working with screens, improved sleep quality, felt more energised and noticed an increase in productivity.