Ceiling lights and fixtures do more than just provide illumination to the room. They also give off a modern look and ambient and relaxing state that makes it all the more conducive to kitchen activities such as cooking and dining. There are several types of kitchen lights that can suit different needs and moods. Each of these lights have their own characteristics and benefits.

Kitchen Downlights

Downlights are described as a type of light that are recessed into the ceiling and are fixed on providing a direct path of light on a single area. When choosing which kitchen downlights are suitable for your needs, there are several considerations that you have to keep in mind:

  • LED vs. halogen. LED downlights are more expensive than halogen ones, but in the long run, you get to save more on your consumption bill because they do not cost much to run. Halogen downlights, on the other hand, maybe a lot cheaper to buy than LEDs, but they consume more energy.
  • Colour temperature. You must decide the colour temperature of your downlights to be installed so you get the most out of them in terms of mood lighting.
  • Fire rated. They are much safer to use as they help in delaying the spread of fire, just in case one happens.

Ceiling lights

Kitchen ceiling lights can definitely add to the aesthetics of the whole room. You can choose from a wide range of choices – recessed or outwards lights. They also come in varying designs, shapes and sizes that will suit individual needs. When looking for ceiling lights, make sure that they complement the design of the kitchen, but if you are feeling a bit of a rebel and you want a stark contrast, then you can definitely do so.

Pendant lights

Pendant lights, as the name suggests, hand from the ceiling to create a more varied look for the kitchen. Kitchen pendant lighting is usually installed right above a kitchen counter or a dining table. They make a great source of dedicated lighting besides providing an accent to the kitchen. They come in different styles that can complement the kitchen perfectly.

Spotlights

Compared to downlights whose positions and focus are fixed, kitchen spotlights can easily be focused and directed in different areas in the kitchen. Their heads are mobile and can be turned several degrees in all directions so they can be used in a variety of ways and provide lighting to several areas and fixtures in the kitchen. They are also considered more practical than downlights. Besides being a decorative form of lighting, they are also very practical as you don’t need to light all spotlights at once if you are only going to use one area of the kitchen for certain tasks. All you have to do is focus one spotlight in the area and you’re good to go.

Under-cabinet lights

Under-cabinet lights are installed beneath kitchen cabinets and can provide lighting to counters without the distraction and obstruction of shadows. They can be of different types as well: track systems, slim strips or pucks. They can also be installed inside cabinets to illuminate glassware displays. These lights are more commonly used when homeowners only need a little illumination to do tasks in the kitchen counter such as making sandwiches, etc.

Under Cabinet Lighting
Under Cabinet Lighting

Plinth lights

Not many homeowners may be familiar with plinth lights. They are considered as accent lighting more than practical lighting. They are made up of small LED lights of varying colours that provide lighting accent to the kitchen. They are usually used for soft lighting and are considered beautiful additions to a kitchen look. They can also add depth to the room, especially if the kitchen is a little small. Illuminating a certain area with plinth lights can give off a feeling of more space.

Consider the Overall Design

The overall design and area of the kitchen should be considered when shopping for lights. The more economical and practical the lighting, the better. Since the kitchen is one of the most frequently used rooms in a home, it is just fitting that it be provided with the proper light fixtures so that anyone who is in the kitchen will have a productive and relaxing time.