Lighting for your Kitchen & Dinette areas

WHAT IS THE BEST GENERAL LIGHTING FOR A KITCHEN?

Unfortunately, there aren’t any easy answers here, since so much is determined by the size of your kitchen area. Most people start with a 2-light or 4-light decorative fluorescent in the center of the ceiling. It’s less costly, uses less energy and provides very good general light output.

A kitchen of 100 square feet or less can use a 2-light fluorescent; up to 250 square feet takes a 4-light fluorescent. Larger than 250 will need the 4-light plus additional lighting.

WHAT DO I DO ABOUT TASK AREAS SUCH AS ISLANDS, AREAS OVER THE SINK, AND COUNTER TOPS?

Besides the general lighting guidelines in the above answer, these areas call for more concentrated lighting since they are normally work areas. Again, you should refer to the formula for task areas in question 1. The Kichler Cabinet Lighting or Kichler Linear Lighting systems can provide solid, brighter light on work surfaces, surfaces above cabinets and other concealed locations to add a warm, comfortable atmosphere to your kitchen. A decorative pendant with 2 or 3 shades (depending on the size of the island) can be installed over your island for sufficient light and to add a decorative element to that area. Linear chandeliers also work great over a kitchen island.

HOW DO I LIGHT A DINETTE AREA?

Normally, a decorative pendant (single light – since this is generally a smaller eating area) or a mini chandelier with separate recessed light will do the job while providing plenty of light on the table surface. Use a dimmer to soften the light for mood dining when entertaining and to turn up higher for homework.