Kitchen Lighting Design Starts With Tasks
Good kitchen lighting design puts strong light on counters, the sink and the cooktop first, then adds general light for the room and accent light for mood. Those three layers keep shadows off work surfaces. A single ceiling fixture rarely does all of that.
Plan lighting while walls and ceilings are open. Adding wiring later costs more.
Task Lighting
Under cabinet fixtures light counters directly. Without them, wall cabinets and your own body cast shadows on the cutting board. Also add light above the sink and the range. Many range hoods include lights for the cooktop.
Ambient Light
General lighting fills the room so people can move safely. Recessed fixtures, surface mounted fixtures or a combination work. Spread them evenly rather than placing one bright fixture in the center.
Kitchen Lighting Design for Islands
Pendants over an island or peninsula add task light and style. Hang them high enough to see across the counter, and space them to cover the work surface. The article on kitchen island versus peninsula covers layout choices.
- Pendants over islands
- Under cabinet strips over counters
- Recessed lights in walkways
- Accent lights inside glass cabinets
Controls and Dimming
Separate switches for each layer let you change the mood. Dimmers help in open kitchens that join living space. Some controls also save energy.
Energy Rules for Kitchen Lighting Design
California’s energy standards cover residential lighting in remodeled spaces. The California Energy Commission Building Energy Efficiency Standards set requirements for efficacy and controls. Ask your electrician which rules apply before buying fixtures.
Permits and Wiring
New circuits and fixture changes usually need electrical permits. In the City of Sacramento, a new electrical circuit falls under minor permits. Inspectors check wiring before ceilings close.
Kitchen Lighting Design for Open Plans
When the kitchen opens to living space, lighting must serve both areas. For example, bright task lights may feel harsh during a movie night. So put kitchen layers on separate controls from the living room.
Also match fixture styles across the open area so the space reads as one room. Then each area can change mood without affecting the other.
Color and Brightness
Choose a color temperature that suits your finishes and keep it consistent across fixtures. Mixed color temperatures can make white cabinets look patchy. The article on small kitchen remodeling shows how light helps small rooms. Thoughtful kitchen lighting design makes every other upgrade look better.