Looking for ways to freshen up your kitchen and create a warm, inviting atmosphere? Good lighting is key! With the right lighting fixtures and design tricks, you can instantly transform the look of your room. Here are 9 tips for optimum lighting in the kitchen that will help you showcase your cooking space in its best light. From basic interior decorating ideas to creating projects, these tips will have your kitchen looking bright and beautiful in no time.
The right ceiling lamp: Dos & Don’ts
Ceiling lamps made of steel, metal, glass or plastic are best suited for the kitchen. These materials are easy to clean and do not absorb the smell of cooking fumes.
Bright, glare-free lamps are important for basic lighting. A lamp in which both the brightness and the light color (from warm white to daylight white) can be selected by means of a dimmer is ideal for the kitchen. In this way, the perfect light can be selected for every task in the kitchen – from cleaning, cutting to cozy sitting.
Lighting for the worktop and under the kitchen cabinet
The light from the ceiling lamp alone is not enough to cut vegetables. Shadow makes it difficult to work properly. The solution: light under the cupboards or on the wall behind the worktop.
There is a wide choice – from furniture recessed spotlights to LED panels. Built-in motion detectors are particularly practical, so that the light always switches on when someone is working in the kitchen. Also recommended if the necessary connection is missing is under cabinet lighting with a plug for the socket.
Illuminate your kitchen island and worktop in style with beautiful hanging lamps
Larger kitchens, in which there is room for a kitchen island and a counter, are ideal for creative lighting. The chicest design hanging lamps are great eye-catchers for the kitchen.
It is possible to place several hanging lamps with one lamp next to each other or to opt for a model with several lamps. A choice must be made between a warm white or neutral white light colour. A neutral white light color can be chosen for above the worktop, a warm white light color is more cozy for above the sitting and dining area. Lamps that are adjustable in height provide more flexibility.
Must-have hanging lamps for a cozy open kitchen
Those who have an open kitchen usually also have a dining table. A hanging lamp is the perfect choice here. Preferably one that is adjustable in height with warm white light that can be dimmed.
For a small table, a hanging lamp is sufficient. If the table is rectangular and larger, an elongated pendant lamp is perfect. Several hanging lamps next to each other that are mounted at equal distances from each other are also a great alternative.
Rail and cable systems for the kitchen
An individual kitchen requires special lighting concepts. Cable systems are just as suitable as rail systems because they can also perfectly illuminate different corners.
With just one power connection, different parts of the room can be individually illuminated. And several lamps can be attached within one system – perfect for more variety in the kitchen. One thing is certain: rail and cable systems are not only functional, but also an asset to a stylish interior.
Lighting up small kitchens
An apartment often has a small kitchen with little space. Creativity is required here. Lamps can also serve as extra shelves with storage space. That is extremely practical.
Larger wall shelves with lights also provide storage space and a pleasant lighting atmosphere. And if you like luminous furniture, a luminous side table for the kitchen is very practical.
LED strips for indirect and colorful lighting
Creating special light accents in the kitchen is best done with LED strips. These can be attached to the underside of the worktop, as well as to wall shelves and a counter.
LED strips are practical: LED dots can easily be shortened with scissors, where you are allowed to cut is always indicated on the LED strips themselves. The LED strips can also be placed around a corner and even cut pieces can be reconnected with special clips. LED strips with a cheerful color change function provide variation in the lighting. Depending on the product, it can also be operated with a remote control or smartphone.
Fresh herbs perfectly lit
Naturally, fresh herbs also belong in a kitchen. With basil, chives and other fresh herbs you can easily and deliciously refine dishes.
Special lamps for plants are also ideal for providing perfect light for fresh herbs. It is also ideal for highlighting the herbs and as a beautiful decoration. There are even hanging lamps with a special flower pot for herbs or plants.
Smart lighting for the kitchen: simple & fun
Smart lighting can no longer be ignored in the world of lighting. Smart lighting also has a lot to offer in the kitchen – from convenient voice control to flexible lighting systems.
Smart lighting is versatile and flexible. Smart LED panels can be operated with a smartphone and can be connected as under-counter lighting to illuminate the worktop. Hanging lamps above the dining table with RGB LED lighting provide a colourful variety. There are also lamps where you can switch between indirect and direct lighting and the light can be radiated in many directions. All these gadgets provide more luxury and comfort in the kitchen.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about kitchen lighting
How bright should a kitchen lamp be?
In the commercial sector, there are clear guidelines for lighting in the kitchen due to occupational safety. In the kitchen at your home there are no obligations. You can choose the lighting concept yourself. The first step is sufficiently bright basic lighting that illuminates the entire kitchen evenly and without glare. The workplaces such as the hobs and worktops, where cutting is done and kitchen appliances are used, must be extra well lit. We recommend worktop lighting for under the kitchen cabinets, so that the light shines directly on the worktop without annoying shadows. Then comes the dimmable lighting that makes it cozy: dimmable hanging lamps should certainly not be missing for a cozy atmosphere.
How many watts should a kitchen lamp have?
The wattage of the old light bulb no longer matters in the era of modern LED technology. It depends on the product how much brightness a light source generates with how many watts. A reliable comparison of the light sources is made via the luminous flux (lumen). A comparison value in Watts can be found in the product details for orientation. Depending on the size and layout of the kitchen, you can choose the lamps for the kitchen.
What light color should a kitchen lamp have?
In the commercial sector this question is answered quickly – universal white with 4000 Kelvin is recommended. Because this light color is perceived as quite cold, light in a range of 2700 to 3000 Kelvin is recommended for private rooms – ie warm white light. This applies especially to the area where tables and chairs are located and where people can chat. With many lamps, the light color can be individually adjusted – then you can choose the light color yourself depending on the situation.
What should be considered when choosing a kitchen lamp?
After installation, the lamp must emit light that is as glare-free as possible to reduce the risk of accidents. Light sources should be chosen that illuminate the workplaces evenly and with little shadow. In the kitchen, care should also be taken that the surface of the lamp can be easily cleaned to remove dust and grease. Models that are resistant to the development of heat and humidity should be used especially near the fryer, stove and dishwasher – it is best not to place the lamp directly above them. Lamps with a sensor that turn on without a switch when your hands are dirty or wet can also be useful. Lamps that stylishly illuminate cupboards, wall shelves and the kitchen island are also ideal for creating beautiful accents in the kitchen.
What should be considered when planning kitchen lighting?
After installation, the lamp must emit light that is as glare-free as possible to reduce the risk of accidents. Light sources should be chosen that illuminate the workplaces evenly and with little shadow. In the kitchen, care should also be taken so that the surface of the lamp can be easily cleaned to remove dust and grease. Models that are resistant to the development of heat and humidity should be used especially near the fryer, stove and dishwasher – it is best not to place the lamp directly above them. Lamps with a sensor that turn on without a switch when your hands are dirty or wet can also be useful. Lamps that stylishly illuminate cupboards, wall shelves and the kitchen island are also ideal for creating beautiful accents in the kitchen.
Final Thought:
Lighting is an essential aspect of any kitchen design. With the right combination of task, accent and ambient lighting, you can create a beautiful, functional kitchen that will increase the value of your home. By following these nine tips for optimum lighting in the kitchen, you can easily make your space look and feel more inviting. From dimmable LED recessed lights to layered pendant fixtures, there are plenty of options to choose from that will help you create an inviting atmosphere for cooking, eating and entertaining.