How to make the best use of effective kitchen lighting
Choosing your new kitchen is sure to be an exciting time…
From the initial consultation to the designing stage, there will be a lot of emphasis on the style of your new kitchen, along with the finishes you require, and your chosen worksurfaces and appliances. Most kitchen showrooms will have some knowledge of the different types of lighting your kitchen is likely to require. But, knowing about them and using them effectively are poles apart! In fact, all too often there is little consideration given when planning a new kitchen’s lighting.
At Ray Munn we treat kitchen lighting as one of the essential key elements of an overall cohesive kitchen design, not only in terms of functionality, but also to produce spectacular visual results.
As with all other services, lighting should be considered from the offset, as more often than not, retrospective lighting has limited impact and functionality.
Today, many kitchens serve as a multitude of purposes. From having a breakfast bar or dining area, to more recently serving as a makeshift home office for many, consideration should be given as to what activities are likely to take place in the kitchen, other than that of cooking!
Task lighting
Effective ‘task lighting’ is essential for safe working. Commonly referred to as the ‘working triangle’ the locations of the cooker and hob, and the sink and refrigerator must all be well lit.
Lighting in these areas can be achieved with spotlights or down-lighters. Or, if the ceiling height allows, pendant lighting over an integrated island hob is both practical and visually eye-catching. Equally, under-cupboard lighting such as strip or LED lighting is designed to illuminate the worksurface, and therefore assist with food preparation.
Ambient lighting
‘Ambient lighting’ is ideal for seating areas and is best controlled with a dimmer switch. This way it allows for brighter lighting, or more subtle low-level lighting when required.
Accent lighting
Ideal for illuminating shelving and feature or glass fronted cupboards, ‘accent lighting’ will add interest to a room, along with a degree of practicality.
Feature lighting
Used to highlight items of interest, ‘feature lighting’ can illuminate cornices, be integrated into plinths, or between worksurfaces and base units, giving stylish impact to the appearance of a kitchen, especially at night time.
Opulent lighting
Dramatic in appearance, a chandelier is sure to create a truly impressive focal point in your kitchen! More often associated for use in a bedroom or living area, lighting such as a chandelier is the ideal type of lighting where a kitchen style is equally as opulent!
Lighting controls
Where and how light switches or smart technology controls are positioned is also important. Ideally, there should be a main control point of upon entering the kitchen, to activate each of the kitchens zones. The height of these switches or smart technology controls should also be considered too when planning the overall kitchen design.
Whatever the desired style of your new kitchen, whether it’s contemporary and minimal, or classic with traditional elements, it’s sure to need great lighting!
