Is Lighting Important?
Lighting affects mood. This we know instinctively as we turn the lights down low for relaxing and up high to complete a task. Kitchen spaces are “work areas” first, but they also serve many functions, such as preparing meals, completing homework, entertaining guests, and providing family time. When selecting the best lighting, consider functionality. You will likely need several types of fixtures for your kitchen, and in this post, we will explore a variety of options. This is most certainly not an exhaustive list of options. Working with a designer can help with navigating the various options for your family’s needs.
Overhead Lighting
This is general lighting throughout the kitchen ceiling. Recessed lights are a standard choice in most kitchens and offer continuous illumination to the area. The drawback of using only overhead lighting is its inability to provide adequate task illumination on the island and countertops. Flush-mounted lights are also a good choice for the kitchen and can be more decorative.
Another option for overhead lighting would be pendant lights and chandeliers. Perfect for the kitchen island because they light the countertop completely and hang low for better task lighting. The beauty of pendants and chandeliers is their aesthetic quality. This type of lighting can provide functionality while adding style and color to your kitchen. Pendants tend to come in multiples of two to four when hanging over the island. A large chandelier would also be a good choice to cover a large portion of the island with light. If the island has a cooktop, a large exhaust hood with a built-in light can also do the trick!
Under Cabinet Lighting
Under-cabinet lighting should be a consideration when planning your kitchen. Upper cabinets can cast shadows on counters below, and they can be too dimly lit to complete many tasks. One way to provide the illumination needed for these tasks is to install lighting directly under the cabinets. Some options to consider are as follows:
LED Strip Lights & Fixtures are almost invisible yet provide good task lighting when paired with strong overhead lights, and they can hide under the upper cabinet and be unseen. They are versatile since they come in various color temperatures and brightness. (Note: LED is here to stay. The US Department of Energy forecasts that LED will comprise 75% of all sales by the year 2030.)
Fluorescent Fixtures are classic under-cabinet lights and are cool to the touch. They are a mid-range choice, not too fancy, but functional.
Puck Lights – named for the hockey puck shape can be hardwired or battery-operated and installed on the underside of the upper cabinet with adhesive strips. These are a great choice for renters.
Decorative, Ambient and Accent Lighting
This is the “go-to” light, especially desired when showcasing art pieces. Many homeowners choose glass-front cabinets for their special treasures, and lighting is of the utmost importance for showing them off! This type of lighting can include LED strips, similar to the under-cabinet lights, as well as puck lights. Another type of decorative light is a wall sconce. They often throw light up or down, or both, and can illuminate a piece of art or a relatively dark section of the room, such as an alcove or either side of a doorway. Sconces can set the tone for your room and should be installed on their own set of dimmer switches. The softening of shadows can supply a mood, or the direct beam can draw your attention to a focal point.
The popularity of open floor plans in the central living spaces of the kitchen, family room, and dining areas opens the door for various artistic lighting fixtures. The opportunity to include chandeliers, pendants, recessed lighting, and decorative lighting can bring interesting textures, shapes, and materials to spaces that are interwoven and highly utilized by the family. There is no limit to the amount of creativity a homeowner can enjoy when incorporating the different spaces together harmoniously. If it seems daunting to you, professional designers can lend a hand to help you express yourself. Enjoy! Allow those creative juices to flow!
Owings Electric can offer all these services for your kitchen and for any room in your home. We can advise on the best option for your space and install the lighting fixtures you choose. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.