Good kitchen lighting makes cooking easier and helps your kitchen look amazing. At Andrade Renovations, we know that the right lighting solutions can transform your cooking space from dull to dazzling during your kitchen renovations.
Why Kitchen Lighting Matters
Your kitchen is where you cook, eat, and spend time with family. Good lighting helps you:
- See clearly when cutting food
- Create a warm feeling for family meals
- Show off your beautiful kitchen design
- Make your space look bigger
Research shows that well-designed lighting can reduce energy use by up to 65% while making your kitchen more pleasant and easier to use.
Three Types of Kitchen Lighting
1. Main Lighting
This is the general light that fills your kitchen. It helps you move around safely.
Good options include:
- Ceiling lights
- Pendant lights above islands
- Track lighting
2. Work Lighting
This lighting focuses on where you’re working to prevent accidents and help you see better.
Popular choices:
- Under-cabinet lighting for your kitchen worktop
- Lights above islands where you prepare food
- Lights inside upper cabinets with glass doors
3. Mood Lighting
These lights add style and can set the mood in your kitchen. They highlight special features like open shelves or a stainless steel splashback.
LED Lights: The Smart Choice
LED lights are best for kitchens because they:
- Last much longer than old bulbs
- Help you save money on energy bills
- Don’t get very hot
- Show food colours correctly
- Turn on instantly
- Can be made brighter or dimmer
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Long life | LEDs last up to 50 times longer than old bulbs |
| Energy saving | Lower electricity bills |
| Cool running | Safe in kitchen heat |
| True colours | Food looks natural |
| Instant on | No waiting for brightness |
Where to Place Your Lights
Where you put your lights matters just as much as the type of lights you choose:
- Put ceiling lights 25-30 inches from walls
- Install under-cabinet lights toward the front edge to light your whole worktop
- Hang pendant lights 30-36 inches above islands
For more inspiration, check out our kitchen design gallery.
Light Colour: Getting It Right
The colour of your kitchen lighting affects how things look and feel:
- Warm light (2700K): Good for creating a cosy feeling
- Neutral light (3000K): Works well for most kitchens
- Cooler light (3500K): Best for work areas where you need to see clearly
Most people prefer warm or neutral lighting that makes stainless steel appliances and drawer fronts look their best.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does good kitchen lighting cost?
For kitchen renovations, set aside 5-10% of your budget for lighting. Book a free consultation with us to get exact prices.
Can I update my kitchen lighting without a full renovation?
Yes! New light fixtures are an easy and affordable kitchen makeover that makes a big difference.
Are LED lights worth the extra cost?
Definitely. They help you save money in the long run through lower energy bills and rarely need replacing.
What’s the best lighting for cooking?
For cooking tasks, you need bright, neutral light (3000K-3500K) directly over your worktop.
Want to improve your kitchen with better lighting? Contact Andrade Renovations today for expert advice on kitchen design and lighting solutions that will transform your cooking space.
