The primary function of a kitchen may still be cooking, but it increasingly serves as one of the main entertaining spaces in the home. The right lighting can introduce several levels of brightness, make small kitchens feel larger and dramatically alter your room’s mood and feel. It’s important to invest in a scheme that provides good task lighting, as well as creating the ideal ambience.
Kitchen lighting can sometimes be the last consideration when it comes to designing your space, but for a kitchen to look and function well, the space must be lit properly. Experts agree that the best time to decide on a new lighting scheme is at the planning stage, as you’re signing off your kitchen drawings. Leave it until later and it could become an afterthought, with limited possibilities.
A good kitchen lighting system needs at least two elements: bright, shadow-free task lighting for safe cooking and preparation; and atmospheric illumination to create mood, highlight architectural features and make the room feel more inviting.
TASK LIGHTING
Under-cupboard spots fitted directly above the hob, sink and chopping board will ensure bright, focused task lighting. Make sure you position them as close to the front edge of the cupboard as possible, otherwise you’ll illuminate the back of the worktop only.
AMBIENT LIGHTING
For wider mood lighting, lights that are controlled separately are preferable so you can create different moods at the flick of a switch. To achieve the right ambience in relaxing zones, wall lights and ‘washers’ will add subtle background illumination.