Are you planning a kitchen remodeling project? There are so many choices to make, from which cooktop, to the countertop and cabinet materials—it can get overwhelming. You don’t want to overlook the importance of the lighting in your kitchen. After all, the kitchen is both a workspace and a room for entertaining or socializing. Be sure all of your lighting bases are covered by considering the following strategies.
Let the Sunshine In
As more homeowners are remodeling to bring the outdoors in, why not plan for additional windows or skylights as part of a new kitchen? These features can be incorporated into a design, and although there will be an additional cost, you’ll save energy in the long-term. A bright kitchen, with a foundation of ambient sunlight incorporates biophilic design. One element of the trending practice of biophilic design is the use of natural light. Having patterns of light changing throughout the day is more beneficial for our moods than having lights maintain a constant brightness. Of course, there are always cloudy days: be sure to have a second foundation of ambient light that is bright enough for overcast days and evening.
Artificial Ambient Lighting
Whether you’re entertaining or sharing a casual meal at your kitchen island, ambient lighting fixtures are a must for the kitchen. Pendant lighting is a big trend in the kitchen, and it has shown no signs of going away. Pendants are available in a wide variety of materials and styles, so you’re certain to find something to your liking. A grouping of pendants, or a chandelier, work perfectly over your kitchen island. If there is a cooktop on your island, and you need brighter lighting, consider using strip lighting or a flush mount fixture for fewer shadows.
Task and Accent Lighting
It is important to have sufficient lighting in your work triangle, the area encompassing the sink, stove, and refrigerator. Good lighting is also key over prep countertops. Consider under cabinet lighting to remedy the shadows cast by cabinetry.
Because the inside of cabinets can be dim, consider installing lighting inside your cabinets as well, especially if you have glass-fronted cabinets, or open shelves, displaying accessories you love. If you have a piece of artwork on your kitchen wall that you want to highlight, use mounted accent lights. As an added feature, above-counter lighting can illuminate a normally shadowy space between the ceiling and cabinets, while toe-kick lights provide enough light to navigate your kitchen at night without turning on overhead lighting.
If you are ready to get started on your kitchen remodeling project contact us today! You may want to check out our blog on selecting a kitchen layout for inspiration.