THE BRIGHT SIDE

MORE THAN ANY OTHER ROOM IN YOUR HOME, THE KITCHEN REQUIRES A BALANCED BLEND OF LIGHTING OPTIONS TO HELP BRING IT INTO FOCUS

STEPHANIE HOPE

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.