Kitchen Lighting Fixtures
When considering buying kitchen lighting fixtures, you will need to combine the diffrent types of lighting that are necessary in the kitchen, in order to perform tasks efficiently and comfortably.
The 2 typical types of lighting are task lighting(for special work surfaces) and ambient lighting (for atmosphere and aesthetics).
Decide on your needs and the atmosphere you want to create
Deciding on kitchen lighting fixtures means you must consider both the type of fixtures you want and their ideal placement.
Lighting variety is limited only by your wants and desires (and of course, your budget!) - styles range from contemporary to traditional, in materials that include pewter, nickel, bronze, brass and glass.
To make your decision about what to buy easier, ask yourself the following questions:
Where are the frequently-used task surfaces?
Where will you be dining?
Where are your countertops positioned?
How much light do you require or like?
Do you want adjustable lighting?
What is the best location for switches?
Task areas should have enough focussed light so you can easily see what you're working on. Your eyes need to be comfortable with the amount and strength of the light here.
Ambient lighting usually lights the rest of the kitchen, to give the room atmosphere and warmth. This lighting should be friendly and efficient, not harsh or uneven. By using a dimmer switch, you can control the amount of lighting for different situations at different times of the day and night.
When you've made a sketch map showing your positioning of the type of light, you must decide on the actual kitchen lighting fixtures. Pendant lights are a trendy and decorative way to flood your countertops in gentle pools of light, while track lighting gives you the flexibility to direct light into whatever places you want. This is a great option for areas that are multi-use.
The ever-popular recessed halogen lighting is very useful in the ceiling over the sink and cooktop. You can place these on different switches so that you can have all on, or only some, at different times.
Chandeliers are beautiful fixtures for general ambient lighting. Choose a fixture that complements your kitchen decor. Think about how the material (wrought iron for example) will meld with the other metals in appliances, cabinet handles etc.
Fluorescent lighting may be necessary in your new kitchen under government regulations - check this! Fluorecent bulbs are used because they are much higher in energy efficiency than incandescent lighting. Also, they don't fluctuate with energy surges. The main disadvantage is that they can't be dimmed - so perhaps use them in other places.
Once you have bought your fixtures, think about the bulb! Some will give an overall floodlight effect, while others will be a focussed spotlight.
Contemporary Lighting Interesting information about the way a designer plans contemporary kitchen lighting
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