"‘Let there be light,’ is a phrase that echoes through the book of Genesis, and it holds true in all aspects of design—especially when it comes to kitchens. Whether you're slicing vegetables, reading a recipe, or presenting a dish, good lighting is essential.
Unfortunately, there’s a lot of confusion about how kitchen lighting works and how it plays into the designs we create at Laurysen. That’s why we reached out to our team of experts to clear up the myths and share some real, practical tips on kitchen lighting. Here's what Wael Bakr, CKD; Aviva Ben-Choreen, CKD; and Sara Edgerton, Design Consultant, had to say.
**Three Key Types of Lighting**
The first thing our designers emphasize is that there are three main types of lighting, each with its own purpose:
1. **Ambient Lighting**: This is the general, soft illumination that fills the room.
2. **Task Lighting**: Designed to provide focused brightness for specific areas like countertops, islands, or sinks.
3. **Accent Lighting**: Used to highlight certain features, such as cabinetry or decorative elements, adding visual interest.
‘We focus heavily on task lighting in kitchen design,’ says Aviva Ben-Choreen. ‘It’s the most important because it directly affects how well you can work in the space.’
Typically, task lighting starts from the sink outward. Designers identify key work areas and install lights underneath cabinets to ensure those spots are well-lit. The sink is often the priority because it’s where most of the action happens—you need to see clearly while washing, cutting, or preparing food.
Accent lighting, though aesthetically pleasing, is secondary. It adds style but doesn’t serve a functional role like task lighting does.
**Natural Light: The Fourth Element**
Natural light is always a bonus in any kitchen. During the day, sunlight streaming through windows can make the space feel bright and welcoming. However, as Wael Bakr points out, relying solely on natural light isn’t practical—especially in places where it gets dark early, like Ottawa.
‘You can’t cook in the dark,’ he says. ‘That’s why a window can never replace a properly placed task light.’
**Light, Color, and Perception**
In smaller kitchens, lighting becomes even more crucial. As our designers have noted, more light tends to make a space feel larger, while dim lighting can make it feel cramped. This is rooted in psychology—our brains interpret light and color differently, which influences how we perceive space.
Bakr explains, ‘A darker room feels cozy, while a brighter one feels more open.’ So, when designing small spaces, it’s common to increase task lighting to create a sense of openness and functionality.
**Measuring Light: The Science Behind It**
While many designers rely on their experience and eye for lighting, there are also scientific methods to ensure proper illumination. Sara Edgerton mentions that lighting calculations are part of a broader discipline that involves math, not just intuition.
‘It’s not simple math,’ she admits. ‘But it’s necessary if you want precise results.’ Lighting tables can help determine the right amount of light needed based on factors like bulb type and surface color.
This blend of science and art is what makes lighting design so unique. It’s not just about brightness—it’s about creating a space that feels right, both functionally and aesthetically.
**The Big Picture**
At Laurysen, our designers walk the line between science and art. They bring technical knowledge and creative vision together to build kitchens that work seamlessly. And lighting is a big part of that equation.
Poor lighting can ruin both the function and beauty of a kitchen. But with the right approach, it can enhance the entire space. So, the next time you imagine your dream kitchen, don’t forget to think about the light. After all, you can’t cook in the dark!"
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