Trends in Kitchens: Designs for Lighting that is Both Stylish and Functional

by James Mahoney

Authors Note: Lighting is a key element in kitches. Designs should incorporate different types of lighting to fulfill a variety of functions. Good kitchen designs have lighting that is functional and that can also be used to enhance the decor.

The kitchen is often seen as the important hub of all household activities. It is a good place for warm and friendly gatherings and the preparing of meals. Versatility is key to functional kitchens. Designs should incorporate lighting that is versatile enough to provide suitable illumination both for family gatherings, parties or just a cozy dinner for two.

The lighting in your kitchen design should provide adequate lighting so that you can perform daily functions in areas where most of the work is done; for example, on the island or at the counter. Shopping online can help you find a great selection of kitchen lighting for your home improvement project, or where to locate kitchen lighting contractors to install your new kitchen lighting.

Did you know that the kitchen is the busiest room in the house? Designs that take lighting into consideration result in a more functional space. Kitchen lighting is probably the most important element in kitchen interior design.

Since the kitchen is now being used as a home office, a homework area for children and a gathering area for friends and family, good kitchen lighting is very important for all kitchens. Designs that feature the right kitchen lighting create just the right atmosphere for working and entertaining.

Selecting the right kitchen lighting can be a simple process when planning kitchens. Designs first need to identify the main areas of the kitchen that need sufficient lighting. With specific tasks over the range or cook top, you can use an energy efficient fluorescent tube along with a standard range fan or a recessed down light in the general area of the stove. One or two track lights over the sink area can provide the correct amount of illumination that would be needed for washing dishes and scouring pots and pans, a common task in kitchens. Designs that take into consideration not only the ambience, but also the intended use, result in a more functional space.

For the sink and countertops, a combination of track or recessed lighting and under cabinet lighting will achieve the best results in lighting up the countertop and creating a work area that is well lit and free of shadows. Mount the lights as close to the back of the cabinets as possible to avoid creating glare off the work surfaces. Try to select energy efficient fluorescent fixtures that will cover at least two thirds the legnth of the counter.

For the breakfast area, good overhead light is useful since this area is also frequently used for reading. Kitchen lighting ideas vary in style form chandeliers to high tech flexible track lighting with decorative pendants. With a dimmer switch, these ceiling-hung fixtures will produce adequate task lighting for family activities. You can also lower the light for entertaining, often another function of kitchens. Designs that feature a range of lighting types will be better able to support the many functions of the kitchen.

When considering kitchen lighting design, it is important to create muliple layers of lighting that includes ambient lighting, accent lighting and decorative lighting. Layers of light are important for creating the intended ambience of kitchens. Designs with layers allow for a more flexible lighting scheme.

Examine the amount of space and try to imagine the opportunities that you have in considering different categories of kitchen lighting designs to create an inviting and livable space.

Ambient Lighting

This is the general light in the kitchens. Designs should include this type of kitchen lighting to cover all casual activities. This can be achieved through the use of reflected light for different surfaces. An example of this is track lighting.

Task Lighting

An example is under-cabinet lights since they make excellent task lighting. This kind of kitchen lighting is commonly achieved with small light sources using higher and more focused levels of light with a combination of under cabinet lights and overhead lights that are strategically located. This type of lighting will be mostly found in closets, pantries, cabinets or drawers in the kitchen. Designs that incorporate this type of lighting can often create a more contemporary feeling.

Decorative Lighting

This type of kitchen lighting can add sophistication and color to kitchens. Designs can vary from traditional to modern.

Down Lighting

Down lighting is energy efficient and consists of small aperture cans in the ceiling of kitchens. Designs that include down lighting create a lighting scheme free of shadows. Down lighting can produce a longer lamp life, minimize glare and produce a bright crisp light.

Low Voltage Track and Mono Rail Lighting

These lighting systems can offer an interesting and more flexible type of lighting and are easy to install in kitchens. Designs of this lighting style varies: they can be hand-bent and shaped to provide architectural interest. Low voltage lighting dims more easily and lights decorative objects and surfaces dramatically.

Lighting in Kitchens: Designs with the Right Lighting

You will find that there are places online that offer a great selection of kitchen lighting for your home improvement project. It is even possible to locate kitchen lighting contractors to install your new kitchen lighting. Designs can be involved and there are professionals who can help you plan the right lighting for your kitchen.

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