The importance of choosing the perfect kitchen lights
The key factors to consider when choosing the perfect kitchen lights are functionality, aesthetics, and energy efficiency. Functionality is essential for ensuring that the kitchen is well-lit for various tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and meal preparation. Aesthetics play a significant role in creating the ambience and style of the kitchen, while energy efficiency is crucial for reducing electricity costs and minimising your environmental impact.
Different types of kitchen lights are available, including overhead, under-cabinet, and task lighting. Overhead lighting provides general illumination for the entire kitchen and is typically installed in the form of pendant lights or track lighting. Under cabinet lights are ideal for illuminating specific workspaces, such as countertops, and can also add a decorative touch to the kitchen. Task lighting, such as adjustable lamps or recessed lighting, is focused on specific areas where detailed tasks are performed, such as chopping vegetables or reading recipes.
Here are some kitchen lighting ideas that you could implement in your space.
Pendant lights
Kitchen pendant lights come in a variety of styles, including Scandi-style wooden pendants, industrial wire lampshades, sleek glass pendants, and modern metallic designs. These different styles can complement various kitchen aesthetics, from rustic to contemporary.
Low-hanging pendants are a popular choice for creating a cosy, cocoon-like atmosphere in the kitchen. They can add visual interest and draw the eye upward, making the space feel more intimate and inviting. The soft, warm glow emitted from pendant lights can contribute to a relaxing ambience, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a family meal.
In terms of practical benefits, pendant lights are ideal for illuminating kitchen islands or worktop space, and providing focused task lighting for cooking, food preparation, and other kitchen activities. They also add chic appeal to the kitchen, serving as a stylish focal point and enhancing the overall decor.
Overall, kitchen pendant lights not only offer functionality and practicality but also contribute to the aesthetics and atmosphere of your living space. Whether it’s for task lighting or creating a welcoming environment, pendant lights are a versatile and stylish addition to any kitchen.
Spotlights for the kitchen
Spotlights for the kitchen come in various types suitable for different kitchen designs. Bar spotlights offer a sleek and modern look, often with adjustable heads to direct light where needed. Plate designs feature multiple spotlights across the kitchen ceiling, providing a versatile option for illuminating different kitchen areas. Single spotlights are ideal for highlighting specific features or areas, while multi-spotlights offer more coverage and are suitable for larger kitchen spaces.
Spotlights serve both decorative and functional purposes in the kitchen. They add a touch of style and ambience while providing ample task lighting for cooking and food preparation. When choosing spotlights for the kitchen, consider the style and finish that complements the overall design of your room. For example, sleek and minimalist spotlights may suit a contemporary kitchen, while more traditional designs can complement a rustic or farmhouse-style kitchen.
One of the key benefits of kitchen spotlights is their easy installation, making them a convenient option for updating and coordinating lighting schemes. Their versatility allows for customisation and flexibility in positioning to suit specific lighting needs. Whether accentuating a focal point or providing general lighting, spotlights are a practical and stylish choice for any kitchen.
Cabinet lighting
Cabinet lighting comes in various types, such as LED strip lights and motion sensor lights, which are commonly used to illuminate and enhance kitchen cabinets and shelving. LED strip lights are flexible and can easily be installed in any space, providing even and energy-efficient lighting. Motion sensor lights are a convenient option that turn on automatically when they detect movement, perfect for hands-free operation in the kitchen.
Under cabinet lights offer several benefits for practical tasks in the kitchen, such as food preparation and finding items quickly. It provides additional illumination to work surfaces, making it easier to chop ingredients or read recipes. It also helps locate items stored in cabinets, reducing the time spent searching for specific utensils or ingredients.
There are various options for adding cabinet lighting, including small individual lights, lighting strips, and models that can fit inside cabinet doors. These options offer flexibility in terms of design and functionality, allowing homeowners to customise their kitchen lighting based on their specific needs and preferences. Under cabinet lighting improves kitchen visibility and adds aesthetic appeal to the space, making it a practical and stylish addition to any home.
These are also great to leave on in the evening – adding a wonderful atmosphere to your home.
How layout affects lighting needs
The layout of the kitchen, including the arrangement of work surfaces, dining areas, and accent spaces, determines the specific lighting requirements for each area. By providing task lighting, ambient lighting, and accent lighting tailored to the functions and purpose of each space, a well-lit kitchen can enhance both its practicality and visual appeal.
Work spaces such as the countertops, stove, and kitchen sink require task lighting to ensure adequate visibility for food prep as well as cooking. Softer ambient light fittings are preferred for evening mood lighting and perhaps dining areas, to create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for enjoying meals. Accent lighting helps to showcase artwork, decorative items, or architectural details, adding depth and dimension to the space.
How bright should a kitchen light be?
When determining the brightness needed for kitchen lights, it’s important to consider the various tasks performed in the kitchen. The kitchen lighting should be around 300 lumens per square metre.
Dimmer switches and lighting controls allow you to adjust the brightness levels according to the time of day, mood, or specific tasks. They provide flexibility and energy savings while enhancing the functionality of your kitchen lighting.
How high above the kitchen island should the light be?
The ideal height for a kitchen island light fixture should be 30-36 inches (76.2-91.44cm) above the surface of the island. This height ensures that the light provides sufficient illumination without obstructing the view across the island.
To evenly illuminate the entire island and avoid any dark spots while working, the light fixture should be positioned in the centre of the island or evenly spaced if using multiple fixtures.
Looking for professionals to assist with choosing the perfect kitchen lights?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about choosing the perfect kitchen lights for your space, it may be helpful to seek assistance from professionals in the field. Lighting designers or interior designers can provide valuable expertise and guidance to help you make informed decisions.
With our friendly and professional approach, we assess your kitchen style. We then take the time to understand your lighting needs and preferences to recommend the best fixtures and placement options for your home.
Please Note : We do not advise you trying to fit lighting yourself, but to ask an electrician to deal with it, especially with most of the above options for kitchen lighting. Most will require some electrical knowledge.
If you would like some advice on kitchen design and installation or would like to browse our kitchen showroom please get in touch. Give us a call on 01323 642075 or fill out our contact form. A member of the team will be in touch to answer any questions you might have. Russ Deacon are an independent kitchen specialist based in Eastbourne and we cover the whole of East Sussex.