KITCHEN LIGHTING

Lighting should be a combination of task lights for specific areas and supplementary lighting for overall background light.

A good designer should be able to create zones which can be operated independently, creating different moods.

Working areas such as the food preparation surface, hob and sink should all have high wattage independent task lights to illuminate the area without creating a shadow over it.

For low-level background lighting, choose under-cabinet striplights, plus a light over the table on a dimmer switch to create the right atmosphere for dining.

The days of using a single 75 watt bulb ceiling fixture are long gone! Yet too many kitchens still are lit with nothing more than an overhead fixture, meaning that the under-counter spaces and the perimeter counter tops, where most of the work is done, are left in shadow. Indeed, kitchens aren’t just for cooking any more. In addition to the ho-hum tasks of storing, selecting and preparing food, today’s kitchen space multi-tasks as an entertainment area, a family gathering space, a work and homework center and more. Such versatility requires a lighting plan that’s equally versatile and flexible.

Thankfully, kitchen lighting has come of age in the last couple of years, with more styles and designs being available than ever before. While the right recipe for you will depend on the size, complexity and end-use of your kitchen space, there are a couple of things to keep in mind when designing a kitchen lighting plan.

For starters, let’s consider the main areas to illuminate. Stove and sink areas call for down- lights to create task lighting for cooking and cleaning. Adding lighting to these areas also allows you to draw attention to dramatic stoves tops or sink areas. The kitchen table is another focal point, as are kitchen islands and peninsulas. Even if the rest of your kitchen space features recessed lighting, a pendant or chandelier fixture in these areas can add some color or style by breaking up the space without obstructing views.

Lighting the spaces above and below the cabinet spaces has become increasingly important and popular. With many newer kitchens featuring tall spaces, cabinetry often doesn’t reach the ceiling. Over-cabinet lights can dramatically emphasize these tall ceilings and help eliminate room shadows.

Under-counter lighting is a necessity, especially in larger kitchens. Used effectively, under-cabinet lights can draw attention to granite and marble countertops, provide effective food prep task lighting, and even help make food look more attractive. It’s also a great way to get light into small spaces without taking away precious counter space.

The trend of kitchen workspaces or offices presents a whole new set of challenges. Many times these spaces include a computer or television. The screens of these devices shouldn’t be lit, obviously, as too much light can wash out the screens. Under-cabinet lighting from a halogen or fluorescent source that’s directed to the sides of the screens – say to a keyboard or writing area - will help prevent this problem. Finally, keep in mind your choice of wallpaper or paint scheme. Dark tiles or wall colors need more light than lighter, more reflective decorating schemes.

Whatever your space, you should always consider adding dimmers to the various light sources. Not only does this allow you to easily set the mood in the kitchen and adjacent areas, it’s also a great way to save electricity.