KITCHEN ISLAND LIGHTING GUIDE

Kitchen Island Lighting Guide

When we partner with our clients to design their dream kitchen, we don't want to miss any small or large details. A lot of thought and preparation go into any remodel; it's important that we don't forget the details that make the space look and feel luxurious.

Our design team guides our clients through each step of planning to ensure that their vision will be brought to life. Each of the light fixtures featured in the blog is unique and distinct. They not only enhance the aesthetic of the space but also serve a functional purpose. If you're remodeling your kitchen, this blog might inspire you to opt for bold lighting above your island, adding an eye-catching statement piece. This blog is a sequel to a recent post about selecting the right light fixtures, which delves deeper into how to match your style with choices and ensure that your space is both charming and properly illuminated!

A well-designed kitchen island serves as the centerpiece of any modern kitchen, providing a functional space for cooking, dining, and entertaining. When it comes to lighting this important area, it's crucial to balance functionality and style.

Consider the Size and Shape of Your Island

Before selecting lighting fixtures, know the size and shape of your kitchen island. Larger islands may require multiple lighting sources to provide proper illumination. Along with that, the size of the light fixture matters. A larger fixture can provide more focused light, so you might need fewer of them. Smaller fixtures might require more to adequately illuminate the space.

• For longer or rectangular-shaped islands, linear pendant lights or a series of smaller pendants can create a visually pleasing effect.

• For a smaller island (4-5 feet long), a single larger light fixture or a linear pendant with multiple bulbs might suffice.

• For larger islands (6 feet or more), you might consider using multiple smaller fixtures or a longer linear pendant to ensure even lighting coverage.

Determine the Ceiling Height

Ceiling height plays a critical role in determining the type of lighting that will work best. For standard ceiling heights, pendant lights suspended at the appropriate height provide an eye-catching focal point. However, if you have higher ceilings, consider using taller pendant lights or a combination of pendant lights and recessed lighting to maintain balanced and uniform lighting.

• Hang the fixtures at a height where they provide adequate task lighting without obstructing the line of sight or impeding movement. A common guideline is to hang the fixtures around 30-36 inches above the island's surface.

Choose the Right Style

Your design style also plays a huge role. Some people prefer a minimalist look with a single prominent fixture, while others prefer a more symmetrical or clustered arrangement. Selecting a lighting style that complements the overall design of your kitchen is essential. Whether your kitchen has a rustic, industrial, modern, or traditional aesthetic, there is a vast array of lighting options available. For a contemporary look, consider sleek and minimalist pendant lights with clean lines. On the flip side, if you’re going for a more rustic or industrial vibe, choose fixtures with exposed bulbs or metal accents. Here are a few examples from a few of our recent kitchen remodels:

Determine the Lighting Intensity

Your lighting choice should provide sufficient illumination for cooking tasks while creating an inviting ambiance. This one might be obvious, but no one likes to cook or bake in the dark. And we’ve all been in a space where the lights are so bright, they hurt your eyes! So it’s important to find the right brightness in your kitchen.

Depending on the size of your island and the activities you'll be performing, you can opt for task lighting, ambient lighting, or a combination of both. Consider adjustable or dimmable fixtures, allowing you to control the intensity of light according to your needs and mood.

The type of bulbs you use (incandescent, LED, etc.) and their wattage will impact the overall brightness. LED bulbs are energy-efficient and come in various color temperatures to match your desired ambiance. This part can often be overlooked, however it makes or breaks the space.

Pay Attention to Light Placement

Positioning your fixtures correctly is crucial for achieving optimal functionality and aesthetic appeal. For islands used primarily for meal preparation, place the fixtures slightly ahead of the edge to minimize shadows. For islands used for dining or entertaining, center the fixtures directly over the table area to create an intimate atmosphere. Aim for even spacing between fixtures to avoid shadows and dark spots on the island's surface. Generally, the fixtures should be spaced around 24-30 inches apart.

Consider Additional Lighting Options

While pendant lights are a popular choice for kitchen islands, don't be afraid to explore other lighting options. Combine pendant lights with recessed lighting to evenly distribute light throughout the space.

Under-cabinet lighting can also be a practical addition, providing extra task lighting for food preparation on the island's surface. Under-cabinet lighting also adds a cozy touch as well. There are great economical options on Amazon that just stick to the bottom of the cabinet. Some have remotes and some can change colors!

Hopefully this blog gives you some clarity on how to add lighting to your kitchen. (And don’t forget to check out the previous blog on how to choose light fixtures). There are so many different options of kitchen island light fixtures, so we are sure we can help you find the perfect one! If you are considering a kitchen remodel and need some questions answered, we are only a phone call away. Our team of skilled tradesmen, designers, and estimators are here to help. We would love to be apart of your home’s story. Partnering with our clients to make their dream home a reality is our favorite thing to do. We will help you fall in love with your home all over again.

—Xtra Mile Team

August 3, 2023

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