Let there be light

PENDANT LIGHTS

Single or grouped pendant lights add style and a focal point in a kitchen.  They can be used to great effect over your bench top or as a feature over an adjoining dining area.  Pendant lights will not only provide specific task lighting, but they also bounce light around a room, improving the ambient light in general.

If you are thinking of including a trio of pendants, be sure to hire a professional installer as the last thing you want is these feature lights unevenly spaced and hung at the same height.

TASK LIGHTING

Downlights or LED strip lights are a great energy efficient solution and can be used in a variety of ways.  Placed under your overhead cabinets they’ll provide a shadow free work space, and are a great way to showcase your splashback and bench-top surfaces.     They can also be used to great effect on open shelving and to provide a shadow line along the kickback at the base of your cabinets.

NATURAL LIGHTING

If it’s feasible, try to incorporate some natural light into your design, particularly on a new build.   It’ll not only save on your electricity bill; it will also bring a welcome connection to and the outdoors and studies have shown natural light boost your mood and productivity.

A variety of lighting including white light (which emulates daytime lighting) and yellow light (which calms and relaxes) will give your space a layered look that complements your home no matter the occasion or time of day.

Don’t forget your pantry either – rummaging around in a dark space can waste time and a well-lit pantry is often achieved with inexpensive downlights or strip lighting.

Lighting is any easy and inexpensive way to add warmth and character to your new kitchen but does require careful planning to ensure you get the right balance of function and mood.