Find 69+ Inspiring Types Of Lighting For Commercial Kitchen Trend Of The Year

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If you're in the restaurant industry, you know how important lighting is in any commercial kitchen. Not only does it create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere for customers, but it also plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe and efficient work environment. However, selecting the right type of lighting for your commercial kitchen can be overwhelming with the variety of options available. To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a list of the top types of lighting for commercial kitchens. From energy-efficient LEDs to versatile track lighting, these options will elevate your kitchen's functionality and aesthetic. So let's dive in and discover the best lighting for your commercial kitchen!

Fluorescent Lighting

Fluorescent lighting is a popular choice for commercial kitchens due to its energy efficiency and long lifespan. These lights use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last up to 10 times longer. This makes them a cost-effective option for businesses looking to save on their energy bills. Fluorescent lights also produce a bright, even light that is ideal for well-lit workspaces.

There are two main types of fluorescent lighting: plug-in and ballast-driven. Plug-in fluorescent lights are more common and can be easily installed without the need for any wiring. Ballast-driven fluorescent lights require a ballast to regulate the amount of electricity flowing to the bulbs. These types of lights are more energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan, but they do require professional installation.

When choosing fluorescent lighting for your commercial kitchen, look for bulbs with a color temperature in the 3500-4100K range. This will provide a bright, natural-looking light that is ideal for food preparation and cooking. You can also opt for bulbs with a higher color temperature for a cooler, more blue-toned light or a lower color temperature for a warmer, more yellow-toned light.

Fluorescent Lighting

LED Lighting

LED lighting has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its energy efficiency and versatility. These lights use even less energy than fluorescent lights and have an even longer lifespan, up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. This makes them a great choice for businesses looking to save on their energy bills and reduce their environmental impact.

In addition to their energy efficiency, LED lights come in a variety of color temperatures and can be easily dimmed or programmed for different lighting effects. This makes them a great choice for commercial kitchens that need different lighting options for different tasks. For example, you can use cooler LED lights for food preparation and warmer LED lights for dining areas.

When choosing LED lighting for your commercial kitchen, be sure to look for bulbs with a high Color Rendering Index (CRI). This measures how accurately the light source shows colors compared to natural light. A CRI of 80 or above is recommended for commercial kitchens.

LED Lighting

Incandescent Lighting

While incandescent lighting is not as energy-efficient as fluorescent or LED lights, it is still a popular choice for commercial kitchens due to its warm, natural-looking light. Incandescent bulbs use a filament that glows when electricity passes through it, creating a warm, yellow-toned light that is similar to natural sunlight. This makes them a great choice for dining areas or other spaces where a cozy, inviting atmosphere is desired.

One disadvantage of incandescent lighting is its shorter lifespan. These bulbs typically only last for about 1,000 hours, compared to 10,000 hours for fluorescent bulbs and up to 25,000 hours for LED bulbs. This means they may need to be replaced more frequently, which can add up in terms of cost. However, for those looking for a warm and inviting lighting option, incandescent bulbs are still a popular choice.

Incandescent Lighting

Halogen Lighting

Halogen lighting is a type of incandescent lighting that uses a halogen gas to increase the lifespan and efficiency of the bulbs. These lights produce a bright, white light that is ideal for task lighting in commercial kitchens. They also have a longer lifespan than traditional incandescent bulbs, lasting up to 3,000 hours. However, they are not as energy-efficient as fluorescent or LED lights.

One unique feature of halogen lighting is its ability to be dimmed without affecting the color temperature of the light. This makes them a great choice for commercial kitchens that need different lighting levels for different tasks. Halogen bulbs also come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them a versatile option for different lighting needs.

Halogen Lighting

Track Lighting

Track lighting is a popular choice for commercial kitchens because it allows for flexibility in lighting placement and direction. These lights consist of a track that can be mounted to the ceiling or wall, with adjustable light fixtures that can be moved along the track and aimed in different directions. This makes them a great choice for highlighting specific areas or objects in the kitchen, such as a food display or countertop.

Track lighting also comes in a variety of styles and can be customized to fit the aesthetic of your commercial kitchen. Some options include LED track lighting for energy efficiency, or low-voltage track lighting for a softer, more diffused light. Be sure to consider the color temperature and CRI of the track lighting bulbs for the best results in your kitchen.

Track Lighting

Recessed Lighting

Recessed lighting, also known as can lights or downlights, is a popular choice for commercial kitchens due to its sleek and unobtrusive design. These lights are installed directly into the ceiling and provide a clean, modern look. They also offer a wide range of lighting options, from task lighting to ambient lighting.

When choosing recessed lighting for your commercial kitchen, consider the size and placement of the lights. For example, smaller recessed lights may be better suited for task lighting over a countertop, while larger recessed lights can provide more ambient lighting for a dining area. You can also choose between incandescent, LED, or halogen bulbs for your recessed lighting, depending on your energy efficiency and lighting needs.

Recessed Lighting

Under Cabinet Lighting

Under cabinet lighting is a great way to add both style and functionality to your commercial kitchen. These lights are installed underneath cabinets and provide a soft, diffused light that is perfect for food preparation and cooking. They also help to illuminate countertops and workspaces, making it easier to see while prepping ingredients or cooking.

Under cabinet lighting comes in a variety of types, including LED, fluorescent, and halogen. LED lights are the most energy-efficient option, while halogen lights provide a warmer and more natural-looking light. Be sure to consider the color temperature and CRI of the bulbs when choosing under cabinet lighting for your commercial kitchen.

Under Cabinet Lighting

Task Lighting

Task lighting is an essential component of any commercial kitchen. These lights are specifically designed to provide bright, focused lighting for tasks such as food preparation and cooking. Task lighting can come in the form of overhead lights, under cabinet lights, or even portable task lights that can be moved around as needed.

When choosing task lighting for your commercial kitchen, consider the color temperature and CRI of the bulbs. You want a light that is bright enough to clearly see what you are doing, but not so harsh that it creates glare or shadows. LED lights are a great option for task lighting, as they can be easily dimmed or programmed for different lighting levels.

Task Lighting

Accent Lighting

Accent lighting is a great way to add visual interest and ambiance to your commercial kitchen. These lights are typically used to highlight specific areas or objects, such as a display of food or a unique architectural feature. Accent lighting can come in the form of track lighting, recessed lighting, or even decorative wall sconces.

When choosing accent lighting for your commercial kitchen, consider the color temperature and CRI of the bulbs. You want a light that will enhance the visual appeal of the area or object, without altering its natural color. LED lights are a great option for accent lighting, as they can be easily adjusted and come in a variety of color temperatures.

Accent Lighting

Emergency Lighting

Emergency lighting is an essential safety feature for any commercial kitchen. These lights are designed to turn on automatically in the event of a power outage, providing a source of light to guide employees and customers to safety. Emergency lighting typically consists of battery-operated or backup generator-powered lights that are strategically placed throughout the kitchen.

When choosing emergency lighting for your commercial kitchen, be sure to test the lights regularly and replace batteries or bulbs as needed. You want to ensure that these lights are always in working order in case of an emergency.

Emergency Lighting

The Importance of Proper Lighting in a Commercial Kitchen

types of lighting for commercial kitchen

When it comes to designing a commercial kitchen, one of the most important factors to consider is lighting . Not only does proper lighting enhance the overall aesthetic of the space, but it also plays a crucial role in creating a safe and efficient work environment. As a result, choosing the right type of lighting for your commercial kitchen is essential. In addition to the basic overhead lighting, there are several other types of lighting that can be incorporated to improve the functionality and appearance of your kitchen.

Task Lighting

types of lighting for commercial kitchen

Task lighting is a type of lighting that is specifically designed to provide bright, focused light in areas where precise tasks are performed. In a commercial kitchen, this type of lighting is typically used over workstations, such as the prep area, cooktop, and sink. The brightness and direction of the light can be adjusted to suit the needs of the task at hand, making it easier for chefs and kitchen staff to work efficiently and safely.

Ambient Lighting

types of lighting for commercial kitchen

Ambient lighting refers to the overall general lighting in a space, and it is essential in commercial kitchens to create a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. This type of lighting can be achieved through the use of dimmable overhead lights, allowing for adjustments to be made based on the time of day and the level of natural light coming in through windows. Ambient lighting can also be achieved through the use of decorative lighting , such as pendant lights or chandeliers, which can add a touch of style to the kitchen.

Under-Cabinet Lighting

types of lighting for commercial kitchen

Under-cabinet lighting is an excellent addition to any commercial kitchen, as it provides additional lighting in areas where it is needed most. This type of lighting is typically installed under cabinets or shelves and can be used to illuminate countertops, making it easier to see while preparing food or plating dishes. Under-cabinet lighting can also be used to add a subtle ambiance to the kitchen, as it can be dimmed or brightened depending on the desired effect.

Emergency Lighting

types of lighting for commercial kitchen

Emergency lighting is an essential safety feature in any commercial kitchen. In the event of a power outage or other emergency, this type of lighting will automatically turn on, providing enough light for staff to safely navigate the kitchen and shut down any equipment. It is crucial to have emergency lighting installed in strategic locations throughout the kitchen, such as near exits and in areas with high-stakes equipment.

In conclusion, choosing the right types of lighting for your commercial kitchen is not only important for creating a visually appealing space but also for ensuring the safety and efficiency of your staff. Incorporating task lighting, ambient lighting, under-cabinet lighting, and emergency lighting will not only enhance the functionality of your kitchen but also contribute to the overall success of your business. So, take the time to carefully consider your lighting options and create a well-lit and inviting space for your commercial kitchen.


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