In this blog we will talk about the basic lighting design techniques and layout guidelines for choosing light fixtures for your kitchen and dining area. We will also share some safety tips and benefits of LED.
Lighting has the ability to make or break the look and feel of her home. The key to good lighting is by layering three types of Lights.
Ambient lighting
Task lighting
Accent lighting
Ambient lighting is the main illumination in a room which is the overall lighting in the space. This could be a chandelier, multiple pendants, a ceiling fan with the light.
Task lighting is the light needed for specific tasks such as cooking, reading, applying makeup. Examples are recessed lights, sconces next to a dressing area.
Accent lighting could be a toe-kick or in-cabinet lights, cove lighting or small portable lamps. These lights add drama to the space. Use recessed ceiling fixtures that could direct towards the wall or picture lights that mount to the wall.
Many different lighting techniques can be used to set the mood in a specific area. It can also be used to create effects, place emphasis on focal points or can be washed over a wall to create a uniform appearance.
PHOTO CREDIT: CREATV EIGHT
Specifying lighting layout guidelines for kitchens
Add under cabinet lights to highlight the backsplash and add a layer of task lighting.
Add toe kick lighting to provide lighting in unusual areas.
A decorative pendant can be added over the sink.
PHOTO CREDIT: SIDEKIX MEDIA
Lighting guideline for an island
Pendants can be installed starting from 12 inches to 15 inches in from either end of the island and then space the pendants evenly within that span.
Space pendants around 24 inches to 30 inches apart from one another.
Keep 30 inches to 36 inches of space between the countertop and fixtures.
DINING ROOM - 3D RENDERING
Sizing guidelines of a chandelier in a dining room
The diameter should be 12 inches smaller than the table width.
Hang between 27 to 36 inches above the surface of a dining table.
The height from the fixture to the ceiling should be at a minimum of 18 inches.
Sizing guidelines for 2 or more pendants in a dining room
Spacing should be 30 inches apart.
Hang 62 inches to 66 inches above the floor or 30 inches about the table.
Kitchen lighting safety tips
Use LED whenever possible to avoid frequent light bulb changing and therefore ladder use.
Use under cabinet lighting at toe-kicks to light walkways.
Place switches and dimmers near the kitchen entrance.
Avoid using shiny surfaces near light sources.
PHOTO CREDIT : CALLUM HILL
The future Trend in lighting is Led. Why?
They have longer life ratings.
They are energy efficient and come in a compact size with beautiful profile fixtures.
LEDs are compatible with dimming control which will result in producing less heat.
That’s all folks! This blog is meant for you to gain more in depth knowledge about lighting.
You might like these decorating posts…