Introduction
A kitchen is considered the heart of a home. Whether it’s a small apartment or a large house, the kitchen’s lighting plays a significant role in creating a functional and stylish space. However, small kitchens can be challenging to light up as you have to balance the amount of light with the limited space you have. In this article, we will provide some creative lighting ideas that will brighten up your small kitchen.
First Idea: Use Under Cabinet Lighting
One of the best lighting ideas for small kitchens is to install under-cabinet lights. These lights shine down on your countertops, making them more visible and easier to work on. Under-cabinet lights are available in different colors and styles, so you can choose one that matches your kitchen’s decor. LED lights are the most popular for under-cabinet lighting as they are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and bright.
How to Install Under Cabinet Lighting
Installing under-cabinet lighting is relatively easy and can be done in a few simple steps:
- Measure the length of the cabinets where you want to install the lights.
- Purchase the lights and an LED driver if needed.
- Clean the area where you want to install the lights.
- Remove the backing paper from the adhesive strip on the lights and stick them onto the bottom of the cabinets.
- Plug in the LED driver and connect the lights to it.
- Turn on the lights and enjoy your new illuminated workspace.
Second Idea: Pendant Lights
Pendant lights are stylish and functional lighting choices for small kitchens. These lights hang from the ceiling, creating an attractive focal point in the kitchen. Pendant lights come in different shapes, sizes, and colors, making them suitable for any kitchen style. Moreover, they are adjustable and can be used as task lights, providing direct light over a countertop or kitchen island.
How to Choose the Right Pendant Light
Choosing the right pendant light for your small kitchen can be a daunting task. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect one:
- Consider the size of your kitchen: Oversized pendant lights can make a small kitchen look cramped. Choose a pendant light that will complement the size of your kitchen.
- Match the style: Pendant lights come in different styles, such as modern, traditional, and rustic. Choose a style that matches your kitchen’s decor.
- Consider the height: Pendant lights should hang at an appropriate height to avoid casting shadows or blinding the person using the kitchen workspace. The recommended height is between 30 to 36 inches above the countertop or kitchen island.
Third Idea: Recessed Lighting
Recessed lighting is an excellent choice for small kitchens as they are versatile and install flush with the ceiling, creating an illusion of a more spacious kitchen. This lighting technique is ideal for a minimalist kitchen design, as it provides adequate light without taking up too much space.
How Many Recessed Lights Do You Need?
The number of recessed lights you need for your small kitchen depends on the kitchen’s size and shape. Here’s a simple formula that can help determine the number of recessed lights:
- Measure the length and width of your kitchen in feet.
- Multiply the two numbers together to get the square footage of your kitchen.
- Multiply the square footage by 1.5 to get the total number of watts needed for your kitchen.
- Divide the total watts by the wattage of each recessed light to get the total number of lights needed.