Kitchen
3 Expert Tips for Achieving Perfect Kitchen Lighting
The right lighting is crucial for a kitchen, as it serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. It should provide enough illumination for various tasks across different zones, while also enhancing the overall design and adding a touch of style. To help you achieve the perfect balance in your kitchen lighting, Kerry Cochran, senior merchandise manager for Lumens, shares three expert tips for a perfectly lit space.
Whether you’re refreshing your kitchen or doing a full remodel, consider these three steps for creating a beautifully lit and highly functional kitchen.
- Use the Principle of Three-Level Lighting
“The modern kitchen serves more than one purpose, which necessitates a careful combination of task, ambient, and accent lighting,” Cochran explains. Balancing these different types of lighting can be tricky, but it’s essential for both function and visual appeal. 3 Expert Tips for Achieving Perfect Kitchen Lighting can help you achieve this balance. Cochran recommends creating layers of light by integrating three key elements: ambient lighting for general illumination, task lighting for work areas, and accent lighting to highlight specific features. This combination ensures a smooth transition from day to night, offering both practicality and visual harmony.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Mix Styles and Materials
Many people feel the need to match all their kitchen lighting fixtures, but Cochran says there’s no rule against mixing styles and materials. “In fact, some of the most well-designed kitchens incorporate a thoughtful mix of both styles and materials,” she says. Mixing metals, for example, can add depth and character to your space, as long as the tones complement each other. 3 Expert Tips for Achieving Perfect Kitchen Lighting suggest pairing warm tones like brass or copper with cooler ones such as stainless steel or chrome. This creates a dynamic contrast, while sticking to two or three finishes prevents the kitchen from feeling too chaotic.
- Add Personality Through Light Fixtures
Lighting fixtures are a great way to inject personality into your kitchen. Cochran compares selecting kitchen lighting to choosing jewelry for an outfit. “It should reflect your personality and style, and complement your outfit—the kitchen—without overwhelming it or competing for attention,” she says. To get this right, focus on functional lighting first—like track lights above the kitchen island—before introducing decorative pieces such as a bold pendant light or colorful sconces. 3 Expert Tips for Achieving Perfect Kitchen Lighting show how these fixtures can add a touch of individuality while still contributing to the overall design.
By following these expert tips, you’ll be able to create a kitchen that’s not only beautifully lit but also efficient and welcoming.
