Uncover 75+ Exquisite Dos And Donts Kitchen Lighting You Won't Be Disappointed

When it comes to kitchen lighting, having multiple light sources is key. This will help to eliminate any shadows and provide more even lighting throughout the space. Plus, having multiple light sources can add depth and dimension to your kitchen, making it feel more inviting and cozy.

For example, you can have overhead lighting for general illumination, under cabinet lighting for task lighting, and pendant lights over the kitchen island for ambient lighting. This combination will not only make your kitchen look more aesthetically pleasing, but it will also provide you with the necessary illumination for various activities in the kitchen.

task lighting and ambient lighting

While it may be tempting to just rely on one light source in your kitchen, this can make the space feel dull and uninviting. It can also create harsh shadows and make it difficult to see when working in the kitchen.

Having only one light source can also make it challenging to create different moods in the kitchen. For instance, if you want a more relaxing atmosphere for a dinner party, having just one bright overhead light may not be ideal.

harsh shadows and different moods

Task lighting is essential in the kitchen, especially in areas where you will be working with sharp objects or precision tasks. This includes areas like the countertop, stove, and sink.

Having dedicated task lighting in these areas will not only make it easier to see what you are doing, but it will also reduce eye strain and make your kitchen more functional. You can choose from options like under cabinet lights, track lighting, or even a small desk lamp for targeted task lighting.

precision tasks and eye strain

While overhead lighting is necessary for general illumination, it shouldn't be the only source of light in your kitchen. This type of lighting can be too bright and create harsh shadows, making it difficult to see while working in the kitchen.

Instead, incorporate other light sources like under cabinet lighting or pendant lights to balance out the lighting in your kitchen. This will not only make your kitchen more functional, but it will also add visual interest and ambiance to the space.

harsh shadows and visual interest

The color temperature of your lights can greatly impact the overall look and feel of your kitchen. Color temperature is measured in Kelvin and can range from warm (yellow) to cool (blue) tones.

For the kitchen, it is recommended to use lights with a color temperature between 2700-3000K. This will provide a warm and inviting atmosphere without making it too yellow or too blue. It is also important to make sure that all the lights in your kitchen have the same color temperature to avoid a mismatched look.

color temperature and warm and inviting

As mentioned before, it is crucial to have all the lights in your kitchen with the same color temperature. Mixing different color temperatures can create an unbalanced and unappealing look in the space.

For example, having warm yellow lights in the kitchen and cool blue lights in the dining area can make the transition between the two spaces feel jarring. Stick to one color temperature for a cohesive and visually pleasing look.

unbalanced and cohesive

Having the ability to adjust the brightness of your kitchen lights is essential. This is where dimmer switches come in handy. They allow you to control the intensity of the light in your kitchen, making it easier to create different moods and ambiance.

Dimmer switches are also great for saving energy and extending the lifespan of your light bulbs. You can dim the lights when you don't need them to be too bright, and this will help to reduce your energy consumption and lower your electricity bill.

adjust the brightness and energy consumption

Having lights that are either too bright or too dim can be frustrating and impractical in the kitchen. Too bright lights can cause glare and make it difficult to see, while too dim lights can strain your eyes and make it challenging to work in the kitchen.

Make sure to choose the appropriate wattage for your kitchen lights, depending on the size and purpose of the space. You can also consider using LED lights, which are energy-efficient and have adjustable brightness options.

glare and strain your eyes

Layering your lighting is essential for creating a well-lit and visually appealing kitchen. This means incorporating different types of lighting, such as ambient, task, and accent lighting, to create depth and balance in the space.

For example, you can use pendant lights over the kitchen island for ambient lighting, under cabinet lights for task lighting, and a statement chandelier for accent lighting. This combination will not only make your kitchen more functional, but it will also add character and style to the space.

well-lit and character and style

Having all your kitchen lights at the same level can make the space feel flat and uninspired. Instead, try to vary the height of your lights to create visual interest and add dimension to the space.

For example, you can have pendant lights at different heights over the kitchen island, a chandelier above the dining table, and under cabinet lights at a lower level. This will not only make your kitchen look more visually appealing, but it will also provide more even lighting throughout the space.

flat and uninspired and visual interest