Lights To Put Above Kitchen Cabinets

Lights to Put Above Kitchen Cabinets: Essential Aspects

Lighting plays a crucial role in kitchen design, not only for illumination but also for creating a specific ambiance. Lights above kitchen cabinets are a particularly important aspect of kitchen lighting, as they provide task lighting for cooking and meal preparation, and can also enhance the overall aesthetic of the space.

When choosing lights to put above kitchen cabinets, there are several essential aspects to consider:

1. Type of Lighting

The type of lighting you choose will depend on the specific tasks you need to perform in the kitchen. For example, if you frequently cook complex meals, you will need bright, focused lighting to ensure you can see clearly. Consider using under-cabinet lighting with adjustable brightness and color temperature.

If your kitchen is primarily used for meal preparation and casual dining, you may prefer softer, ambient lighting. In this case, recessed lighting or pendants can provide adequate illumination without being overly bright.

2. Placement

The placement of the lights is crucial for effective task lighting. Under-cabinet lighting should be installed directly below the cabinets, facing the work surface. This ensures that the light is directed where it is needed most, eliminating shadows and improving visibility.

Recessed lighting can be placed in the ceiling above the cabinets, providing a more general and evenly distributed light. If you have a particularly large or dark kitchen, you may want to combine under-cabinet lighting with recessed lighting for optimal illumination.

3. Brightness

The brightness of the lights is another important consideration. For task lighting, you will need lights that are bright enough to provide clear visibility without being overwhelming. Consider using lights with a brightness of 400-600 lumens per linear foot for under-cabinet lighting, and 600-800 lumens per square foot for recessed lighting.

Adjustable brightness is a useful feature that allows you to customize the lighting to suit your needs. This can be particularly beneficial if you use the kitchen for multiple purposes, such as cooking, dining, and entertaining.

4. Color Temperature

Color temperature refers to the warmth or coolness of the light. Warm light, with a lower color temperature, creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Cool light, with a higher color temperature, provides a more energizing and focused light that is ideal for tasks.

For kitchen lighting, consider using a color temperature of 3000-4000 Kelvin for a warm and welcoming ambiance. If you need brighter, more focused lighting for cooking, opt for a color temperature of 4500-6000 Kelvin.

5. Style

The style of the lights you choose should complement the overall design of your kitchen. If you have a modern kitchen, consider using sleek and contemporary lights with clean lines and metallic finishes. For a traditional or rustic kitchen, choose lights with more ornate details and warm finishes.

Pendant lights can add a decorative touch to your kitchen while providing ambient lighting. Choose pendants that are proportional to the size of your kitchen and that match the overall style of the space.

Conclusion

Lights to put above kitchen cabinets are an essential part of kitchen design, providing task lighting for cooking and meal preparation, and enhancing the overall ambiance of the space. By considering the type of lighting, placement, brightness, color temperature, and style, you can choose the perfect lights to meet the specific needs and aesthetics of your kitchen.