Keeping it Light for the Chef this Christmas

The kitchen tends to be the hub of most homes in this day and age and particularly when celebrating special occasions like anniversaries, birthdays and, of course, Christmas.

So, with your kitchen being the centre of activity, it’s important to consider your kitchen lighting so that you can create the right ambience for the space, as well as ensuring the chef has the correct amount of light for perfect food preparation.

Tips for Choosing Your Kitchen Lighting

Essentially there are two main types of kitchen lights that will help to create a cosy and warm atmosphere, while also keeping the space functional and fit for purpose.

The first is task lighting which is the

Task lights are the best option for food preparation and cooking spaces. For example, bright kitchen spotlights are a great way to illuminate your worktops, as are LED lights under cabinets and around hobs.

Then you should look at ambient kitchen light fittings to stop the space from feeling to bright and clinical. Kitchen pendant lighting above a dining area or island can be a brilliant way to create a warm glow when entertaining, while plinth lights can be used to instantly set the mood.

Your Kitchen Lighting Colour Scheme

In terms of what colour light is best for your kitchen, this again can vary depending on the function of the light fitting, the size of the room and your overall colour scheme.

For instance, cool white, or daylight bulbs are best for task lighting, as they really brighten up the worktop and create a practical space for that festive food preparation.

Warmer white bulbs work best for ambient kitchen light fixtures, as they create a more cosy feel that softens the functional atmosphere from the task lighting. And, for those wanting to entertain, colour-changing strip lights look great under cabinets for those late-night kitchen parties.

Looking at Your Kitchen Layout

Before choosing your lighting, it’s important to work out how much light you need in your kitchen.

When reviewing or designing your kitchen lighting layout, the best place to start is with the work spaces. In order to have a functional kitchen, you need to make sure that all worktops and cookers are well-lit.

Once you have established the placement of all task lighting, the next step would be then to consider where you will be likely to dine or entertain to introduce atmospheric lighting. This is a great stage to look at kitchen island lighting or more decorative ceiling lights.

Finally, once the task and ambient lighting is in place, you can look at any accent spaces you would like to highlight. For example, recessed lights in the kitchen can draw the eye to any focal points, like shelving or bookcases.

The Light Company

These kitchen lighting tips have been brought to you, courtesy of the Light Company in Swansea. We have a huge range of task, ambient and accent lighting options for all types of kitchen layouts. You can see our full range here https://thelightcompany.co.uk/ or visit our showroom in Craddock Street, Swansea.