9 Hacks for Lighting Your Kitchen
Getting kitchen lighting right might seem simple, but achieving the perfect atmosphere takes some planning. From choosing ceiling lights, worktop lighting, and pendant lights, it’s essential to focus on both function and style. Below are 9 helpful tips to ensure your kitchen lighting is just right.
#1 Getting the Ceiling Lights Right
For kitchen ceiling lights, opt for materials like steel, metal, glass, or plastic. These are easy to clean and don’t retain cooking odors. Glare-free bulbs with adjustable brightness—ranging from warm white to daylight white—are perfect for the kitchen, providing safety and comfort for various activities.
#2 Worktop and Under-Cabinet Lighting
Proper lighting on worktops is crucial for safety. Shadows from ceiling lights can block light, but adding worktop and under-cabinet lights solves this. These lights often feature built-in motion detectors that automatically turn on when you’re working, providing safe illumination during food preparation.
#3 Illuminate Kitchen Islands & Counters in Style
If you have a kitchen island or counters, pendant lights are a stylish way to illuminate the space. Whether you opt for single-bulb or multi-bulb pendant lights, these fixtures can be hung at the ideal height over worktops or dining areas. Choose a neutral or warm white light for optimal ambiance.
#4 Must-Have Pendant Lights for Cosy Kitchen-Cum-Dining Room
If your kitchen doubles as a dining area, pendant lights are a great choice. Height-adjustable models with warm white, dimmable light are ideal. For small tables, a single pendant light works, while larger tables benefit from elongated pendant lights or multiple pendant fixtures spaced evenly.
#5 Track and Cable Systems for All Areas of the Kitchen
Every kitchen is unique, so track and cable systems provide flexible lighting solutions for all spaces. These systems can light up areas around corners, banishing shadows, and they look stylish while providing functional illumination. You can also fit various light fixtures within one track system.
#6 Small Kitchen Lighting Ideas
In small kitchens, space is limited, so use creative lighting solutions. Consider lighting fixtures that double as storage, such as shelf lights or standing shelves with integrated spotlights. For an added touch of style, try using luminous side tables or furniture pieces in your kitchen.
#7 LED Strips for Indirect and Coloured Lighting
To create atmospheric lighting in your kitchen, use LED strips along worktops, shelves, and counters. These strips can be cut to size and placed around corners, and many feature colour-changing functions that can be controlled remotely for a customized look.
#8 Illuminate Your Indoor Herb Garden
Fresh herbs like chives and basil not only enhance your cooking but also bring vibrancy to your kitchen. Place a pendant light or shelf with integrated lighting to highlight your indoor herb garden, providing both visual appeal and light that encourages plant growth.
#9 Smart Lights for Your Smart Kitchen
Smart lights can elevate the convenience of your kitchen. With voice control and smartphone connectivity, you can adjust lighting easily while your hands are full. LED panels under cabinets provide efficient worktop lighting, while RGB pendant lights above the dining table can offer a pop of colour.