Today’s kitchens certainly earn their keep, in many cases serving as a communal hub to prepare and eat meals as a family, an area to entertain guests and a place to study and work. And, as interior designer Brett Mickan points out, choosing the right lighting can prove challenging due to this multipurpose nature. “You want well-lit areas when preparing food, but when entertaining, you don’t want the room to be lit up like a stadium,” he says. In a space that plays such a pivotal role in our homes and lives, it’s crucial to invest in flexible lighting options that will rise to any occasion – here’s everything you need to know.
Multitasking pendants
As far as feature lighting goes, there are plenty of options. Pendants remain a popular choice for kitchens, directing light onto food prep surfaces and demarcating separate zones. They certainly command a presence, whether you opt for a statement oversized pendant, three identical shades in a row or a cluster of different shapes or heights as an attractive feature. “Consider hanging pendants a little lower than usual over the island bench. It grounds the space and adds interest at eye level,” says Marie Botsis-Premici, co-founder of The Montauk Lighting Co.
Wall flowers
Wall lights or sconces are a more subtle option, bringing both style and practicality. Try them in small, narrow kitchens, or use them to light a washing-up area or illuminate artworks or display shelving. “They’re ideal for adding task lighting without flooding the entire area with light,” explains Brett.
This story is from the February 2022 edition of Home Beautiful.
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This story is from the February 2022 edition of Home Beautiful.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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