Planning your Kitchen Lighting to Enhance Design and Function

If you are ready to renovate your kitchen, the first thing most people think about is new cabinetry.  This is an important initial step, as it is usually the first thing most people notice about the kitchen.  Next, think about planning your kitchen lighting.  Not only can it make your kitchen more functional while you work and prepare meals, but it will highlight and accent areas to make your custom cabinetry look even better.
Task Lighting in the Kitchen
Because much of your time in the kitchen is spent on food preparation, consider where you will be working and integrate lighting.  Don't plan on one large overhead light doing the job, because you will be casting a shadow over your workspace.  Consider integrating lighting under your cabinets so counter space will be well lit without shadows or a harsh glare.
Accent Lighting
Accent lighting is the kind of feature that sets off features in your kitchen.  It isn't necessary to the utilization of the kitchen, but it can change your kitchen from ordinary to spectacular.  Consider integrating lighting into glass door cabinets to set off heirloom china, or an antique glass collection.  Track lighting or directional eyeball lights can also highlight artwork, a gorgeous backsplash, or any other special feature in your kitchen.
Decorative Kitchen Lights
Once your work space and special features are lit up, you can choose general lighting for the kitchen.  Hanging pendants, recessed lighting, adjustable track lights, or chandeliers are all popular choices in the kitchen.  This is where the homeowner can be creative and choose lighting that accents the style of the cabinetry and makes their kitchen a welcome, inviting space.
Whether you're doing a complete kitchen renovation or just an update, choosing lighting is an important step in the process to make your kitchen productive and aesthetically pleasing.  If you're looking for ideas to transform your kitchen into your dream space, contact us.