Plan Your Kitchen Lighting

Also referred to as can or pot lights, these install flush with the ceiling and are good for ambient lighting. If you like a kitchen lighting design that keeps the minimalist look of your contemporary decor, think about using recessed downlights for illumination.

You can choose between flat and adjustable models. Flat ones have fixed lamps, while adjustable units use pivoting bulbs. Adjustable options with recessed downlights also provide accent lighting. Directing the beams from these ceiling lights is a good way to have wall wash lights in your kitchen.

Hanging spotlights give modern kitchen lighting a movie set vibe. By shining light at specific areas, these can serve as task lighting when hung low enough or as ambient lighting when hung closer to the ceiling.

A plate-type unit groups its spotlights together and throws light from a single spot.

For a dramatic look, try illuminating with spotlight track lights. With their lights spaced out across long rows, these are also suitable choices for galley kitchens.

For those with industrial and rustic decors, bar track lights with antique or oxide grey finishes offer complementary kitchen lighting styles to help complete these stylish looks.

Not all kitchen lights hang from the ceiling or mount on the wall. Light sources tucked under and above cabinets can also transform cooking and dining areas.

For cabinets over the sink and food prep areas, consider under-cabinet lights as task lighting to illuminate these zones.

The two most popular types of kitchen lighting products in this category are puck and strip lights. These hidden lamps double as decorative lighting by casting bright glows on reflective worktops and wall tiles.

Another class of decorative kitchen light fixtures to consider is in-cabinet light. This type is also suitable for illuminating alcoves and open shelving units. Try adding some to storage compartments to highlight displayed items like prized crockery.

Consider using battery-powered strip lights as accent kitchen lights for cabinets situated away from wall outlets. Choosing LED strips with rechargeable batteries helps reduce running costs.

Plinth and toe kick lights sit on the baseboards of islands, counters, and other furnishings and cast pools of light on the floor.

Think about pairing these accent kitchen lights with glossy flooring. This reflective surface amplifies the effect of such fixtures and makes it look like kitchen units are floating.