Explore 60+ Awe-inspiring Lighting With Open Shelf Kitchen Most Trending, Most Beautiful, And Most Suitable

When it comes to creating a functional and stylish kitchen, the right lighting is key. This is especially true for open shelf kitchens, where the lighting needs to not only provide adequate illumination, but also enhance the overall design and aesthetics. In this article, we will explore the top 10 lighting options for open shelf kitchens, from trendy pendant lights to practical under cabinet lighting. Read on to discover the best lighting solutions for your open shelf kitchen.

If you have open shelves in your kitchen, it's important to choose lighting that will not only brighten the space, but also highlight your beautiful display of dishes and décor. One great idea is to use LED strip lights along the edges of your shelves. These thin and flexible lights will provide a soft glow and create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your kitchen. Plus, they are easy to install and can be cut to fit any length of shelving.

Another creative lighting idea for open shelf kitchens is to use shelf lighting. These are small lights that can be attached to the underside of your shelves, illuminating them from above. This type of lighting is perfect for showcasing your dishes and creating a dramatic effect. You can choose from different colors and intensities to create the perfect ambiance in your kitchen.

When it comes to the best lighting for open shelf kitchens, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. First and foremost, the lighting should be functional and provide enough light for everyday tasks. But it should also add to the overall design and atmosphere of your kitchen. Here are some of the best lighting options that check all of these boxes:

1. Pendant Lights: Pendant lights are a popular choice for open shelf kitchens, as they can add a touch of style and personality to the space. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and designs, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your kitchen.

2. Track Lighting: If you have a lot of open shelving in your kitchen, track lighting can be a great option. This type of lighting consists of a long track that can be installed on the ceiling, with several adjustable lights attached to it. This allows you to direct the light exactly where you need it, making it perfect for open shelves.

3. Under Cabinet Lighting: As mentioned earlier, under cabinet lighting is a practical and stylish choice for open shelf kitchens. It provides task lighting for your countertops while also adding a beautiful glow to your shelves. You can choose from traditional fluorescent or LED options, depending on your budget and preferences.

The design of your open shelf kitchen lighting is just as important as the type of lighting you choose. It should complement the overall design of your kitchen and enhance its style. Here are a few design tips for open shelf kitchen lighting:

1. Consider Your Kitchen Theme: If you have a specific theme or style in your kitchen, make sure your lighting design matches it. For example, if you have a rustic kitchen, opt for industrial-style pendant lights or Edison bulb fixtures to add to the overall aesthetic.

2. Mix and Match: Don't be afraid to mix and match different types of lighting in your open shelf kitchen. For example, you can combine pendant lights with track lighting or under cabinet lighting to create a layered and dynamic look.

3. Consider the Size of Your Kitchen: The size of your kitchen should also be a factor in your lighting design. If you have a small kitchen, choose smaller lights that won't overwhelm the space. For larger kitchens, you can opt for bigger and bolder lighting fixtures.

Now that we've covered the different types of lighting and design ideas, let's take a closer look at some specific lighting fixtures that are perfect for open shelf kitchens:

1. Globe Pendant Lights: These eye-catching pendant lights have a spherical shape and are available in various sizes, making them a great choice for different sizes of open shelves. They come in a variety of finishes, including brass, chrome, and matte black.

2. LED Strip Lights: As mentioned earlier, LED strip lights are a great option for open shelves. They provide a soft and even glow and can be easily hidden under shelves for a seamless look.

3. Recessed Lighting: If you want a more subtle lighting option for your open shelves, consider recessed lighting. These lights are installed into the ceiling and provide a sleek and modern look. They are also perfect for highlighting specific areas in your kitchen.

Before we wrap up, here are a few extra tips to keep in mind when choosing lighting for your open shelf kitchen:

1. Use Dimmers: Installing dimmer switches for your kitchen lights will allow you to adjust the intensity of the light and create different moods in your kitchen.

2. Don't Forget Task Lighting: While open shelf lighting is important for creating ambiance, don't forget about task lighting for your countertops. Under cabinet lighting or recessed lights can provide the extra illumination you need for cooking and food prep.

3. Use Warm Lighting: For a cozy and inviting atmosphere, opt for warm white lighting rather than cool white. This will create a more welcoming and comfortable space.

Finally, let's take a look at some of the top trends in open shelf kitchen lighting:

1. Mixed Metals: Mixing different metals in your lighting fixtures is a popular trend in open shelf kitchen design. For example, you can pair brass pendant lights with chrome track lighting for a modern and eclectic look.

2. Geometric Shapes: Geometric-shaped lights are making a comeback and are perfect for adding a touch of modernity to your open shelf kitchen. Look for fixtures with hexagonal, angular, or triangular shapes.

3. Exposed Bulbs: Instead of hiding the light bulbs behind shades, exposed bulbs are becoming a popular choice for open shelf kitchens. This adds a vintage and industrial feel to the space.

One of the most popular lighting options for open shelf kitchens is pendant lights. These hanging lights come in a variety of styles and designs, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your kitchen. Here are a few tips for using pendant lights in your open shelf kitchen:

1. Choose the Right Size: The size of your pendant lights should be proportional to the size of your shelves. For example, smaller shelves can be paired with smaller pendant lights, while larger shelves can handle bigger and bolder pendant lights.

2. Hang Them at the Right Height: The height at which you hang your pendant lights can greatly affect the overall look and functionality of your open shelf kitchen. As a general rule, the bottom of the pendant light should be around 30 inches above the surface of your shelves.

3. Consider the Style: There are countless styles of pendant lights to choose from, so make sure you choose one that complements the style of your kitchen. For example, if you have a modern kitchen, go for a sleek and simple pendant light, while a farmhouse-style kitchen would look great with a rustic pendant light.

Another popular lighting option for open shelf kitchens is track lighting. This type of lighting consists of a long track that can be installed on the ceiling, with several adjustable lights attached to it. Here are a few tips for using track lighting in your open shelf kitchen:

1. Choose the Right Placement: The placement of your track lighting is crucial for providing adequate illumination for your shelves. Make sure to position the track in a way that will evenly light all of your shelves.

2. Consider the Angle: The angle at which you position the lights on your track is important for creating the desired effect. For example, angling the lights towards the shelves will create a more dramatic look, while angling them away will provide more general lighting.

3. Use Different Lights: One of the great things about track lighting is that you can mix and match different lights on the same track. Consider using a combination of spotlights, floodlights, and pendant lights to create a dynamic and layered look.

Lastly, let's talk about under cabinet lighting. This type of lighting is perfect for open shelf kitchens, as it provides task lighting for your countertops while also adding a warm and inviting glow to your shelves. Here are a few tips for using under cabinet lighting in your open shelf kitchen:

1. Choose the Right Color Temperature: LED under cabinet lights come in different color temperatures, ranging from warm white to cool white. Make sure to choose the right color temperature for your kitchen, as it can greatly affect the overall ambiance.

2. Consider the Placement: The placement of your under cabinet lights is important for providing adequate task lighting. Install them towards the front of your cabinets to avoid casting shadows on your countertop.

3. Use Dimmers: As mentioned earlier, dimmer switches are a great addition to any open shelf kitchen. Make sure to install them for your under cabinet lighting as well, so you can adjust the intensity of the light depending on your needs.

In conclusion, lighting plays a crucial role in the design and functionality of an open shelf kitchen. By keeping these top 10 lighting options and tips in mind, you can create a beautiful and well-lit space that enhances the overall look and feel of your kitchen. So go ahead and light up your open shelves, and let your dishes and décor shine!