Here’s How to Choose the Right Lighting for Your Kitchen
A beautifully lit kitchen usually employs a combination of ambient, task and accent lighting. Ambient lighting provides a consistent level of general illumination. Task lighting brightens work areas, like the counter and stove areas, for safety and functionality. Finally, accent lighting supports ambient and task lighting, while enhancing décor, too. Here’s how to choose light fixtures for a perfect kitchen lightscape.
Kitchen Lighting Fixtures
Selecting kitchen light fixtures begins with identifying the different purposes they will serve. Here are the most common kitchen lighting types and the roles they can play in your kitchen lightscape.
Finding the Right Light Bulbs
Light bulbs come in a variety of colour temperatures that are measured in units of Kelvin (K) on a scale of 1,000 to 10,000. The Kelvin scale categorizes the colour emitted by bulbs as warm (yellow), cool (blue) or neutral. Here are some guidelines for matching bulbs to light fixtures.
Warm Bulbs
Light bulbs in the 2,200 K to 2,700 K range emit a warm, yellow-ish light that is ideal for ambient lighting since it feels welcoming and relaxed
Neutral Bulbs
Light bulbs in the 3,000 K to 3,500 K range produce a soft white light that’s crisper than warm bulbs and less glaring than cool bulbs. They can work double duty as task and/or ambient lighting.
Cool Bulbs
Light bulbs of 4,000 K and above produce a bright white light that’s ideal for task-oriented lighting, as it may feel too stark when used for ambient or accent lighting
TIP: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for light bulb sizing and wattage
Countertops
Shine a spotlight on kitchen counters you’ll be happy to work on every day. Find your style in low-maintenance laminate or stylish real wood.
Sinks
Pair your new lighting with a gleaming sink that will improve your kitchen’s utility. Find a single or double-bowl model that suits your lifestyle
Faucets
Elevate your kitchen sink with a stylish faucet that resists drips, water stains and fingerprints for clean, efficient performance
Flooring
If your new kitchen lighting is emphasizing stains and scuffs in tired flooring, now’s the time for an upgrade in sleek tile, wood or laminate
Paint
Brighten your kitchen with a fresh coat of paint. Choose from time-tested classic colours or the latest trendy hues for walls and cabinetry
Smart Light Bulbs
Energy-saving smart bulbs can be voice- or motion-activated anytime someone enters the kitchen. They’re also compatible with smart home assistants, like Google Home, Alexa and Siri.