Light + Building, Frankfurt, Germany – Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA), the global leader in lighting, and Saint-Gobain Ecophon, a global supplier of acoustic systems will launch a transformational new version of their jointly developed light-emitting acoustic ceiling. The new SoundLight comfort ceiling tunable white enables dynamic lighting, supporting the human body’s natural biorhythm to aid wellbeing and productivity. It is based upon the known benefits of SoundLight comfort ceiling launched in 2012.

New research by the Stress Research Institute at Stockholm University highlights the positive effect of SoundLight comfort ceiling on employee comfort and well-being in the workplace:
 

• 9 out of 10 office workers stated that SoundLight comfort ceiling contributes to an environment in which they like to work
• The majority of those involved in the research remarked  that the ceiling created a more stimulating, lively and inspiring atmosphere  
• Office workers that tested the SoundLight comfort ceiling experienced greater visual comfort

SoundLight comfort ceiling tunable white incorporates programmable lighting controls that change the brightness and warmth of office lighting throughout the working day. This supports employees’ energy levels, which can be diminished by spending too much time indoors. SoundLight comfort ceiling tunable white helps to reverse this by simulating ‘daylight inside’ and helping to maintain the body’s natural connection to the sun.

“Innovation at Philips is based on our understanding of how light can be used to positively impact people – we know it can soothe, energize and relax us, aiding productivity and concentration,” said Menno Kleingeld from Philips Lighting. ‘’We applied this knowledge to develop SoundLight comfort ceiling tunable white in partnership with Saint-Gobain Ecophon, to help create comfortable and inspiring workplaces.’’

“Saint-Gobain Ecophon and Philips jointly developed and released SoundLight comfort ceiling in 2012. Now with dynamic lighting we take the next step towards an optimum working environment when it comes to light and sound absorption, enabling people to perform at their best and keep the balance in their biorhythm.” said Gert-Jan van Doormalen, President of the Ecophon Group.

“Many people suffer from light deficiency especially in the winter; have sleeping problems, are more tired, and even depressed as a result.” said Associate Professor, Arne Lowden, Stockholm University, Stress Research Institute. “The preliminary results using SoundLight comfort ceiling show that employees feel less stressed and more energetic as a result of improved lighting.”

The light-emitting ceiling also enables a more stimulating, inspiring and attractive open plan office environment by limiting ceiling clutter and creating the impression of a bigger space – while its acoustic nature minimizes noise disturbance.  It is easy to install in either new or existing offices.