Lighting can be the difference between creating a spectacular space with great vibes and dull dingy space. When designing a kitchen, lighting isn’t always top of your priorities – it can often be a second or even third thought. But it should be one of the first. Getting the lighting right helps to create a space that’s welcoming, safe and fit for purpose. Using several sources of light creates a layered effect helping you create the perfect vibe for any occasion. Bespoke kitchen designers Harvey Jones have some top tips on how you can light up your kitchen for all occasions.
To make sure you have lighting for all purposes and occasions, you should split up the lighting into categories:
- Task – for those spaces that require extra illumination to see when food prepping, cooking and serving.
- Mood – for those areas where you might want to define or create a more atmospheric feel, such as dining, relaxing or parties.
- General – for the remainder of the room, everyday use.
Ceiling lights are the most popular form of lighting, as the majority of spaces will benefit from general illumination. Depending on the natural light that the kitchen area possesses, you might want to invest in cool or warm LED Lighting. Cool lighting is bright and whiter and perfect for spaces that are lacking in natural light but can feel a little stark, while warm spots provide a gentler light.
Choosing to hang pendant lights above islands or dining tables creates a feature within the kitchen, a focal point for your guests to gather around. But be aware that these options often require extra wiring so plan ahead in the early stages. It is worth considering if you are likely to move the table as you don’t want to end up with statement lighting hovering over an empty space. Using several lights together at different heights creates an eye-catching feature but they are best hung in odd numbers to ensure there’s always one central shade in the space.
To help illuminate preparation areas, lights below cupboards will help you see clearly. At those essential cooking areas, it is best to make sure the lights are flush and easy to clean. Integral lighting in extractor fans is useful here too, providing additional lighting above hobs for cooking.
Decorative and mood lighting inside cupboards, below islands and between cabinets and the wall can create an array of illusions. Strips of LED lighting below cabinets will make an island appear to be floating, whilst illuminating your floor. Spots inside cupboards highlight your favourite glassware. Colour changing lights can sometimes be a little garish, but used in moderation they are a quick and easy way to create a variety of different atmospheres in the same space. Use uplighters or strip lights in the gap between wall cabinets and the ceiling to give your room a subtle glow in the evening.
