Lighting Guide: The Kitchen & Dining Room

The proper lighting can completely transform the feel of a space, and the kitchen and dining room are no exception. Whether you're preparing a meal, entertaining guests, or simply enjoying a family dinner, this versatile space is commonly coined as the heart of the home. With that, setting the right mood and creating a functional, comfortable environment is important.

Combining practicality and beauty, we have highlighted key aspects to consider when lighting your kitchen and dining room. 

Layer your lighting

Be flexible with your lighting choices to maximise the functionality from day to night. Use bright task lighting to illuminate working spaces, such as the Lunar pendants over a kitchen island, softer ambient lighting to set an intimate mood, and accent lighting like the Derwent wall light to add a decorative statement. Since many houses are adopting open-plan living, using layered lighting to create a considered lighting scheme is essential in establishing the different zones throughout the space.

Make a statement

Often the first room a visitor will see, the kitchen and dining room sets the tone for the rest of the house, so this is your chance to make an impression.

Chandeliers naturally draw attention to themselves, and dining tables act as the perfect focal point. Adding a single statement chandelier or a dramatic cluster pendant will create a stunning centerpiece whilst a row of matching fixtures or a linear chandelier such as the Orla can act as a stylish choice over a rectangular table. Whether your kitchen is warm and intimate, or open and bathing in natural light, a statement piece never goes amiss.

Consider size and style
 

Choosing a fixture that is too small or large for the space can throw off the balance of a room. When hanging pendants over a kitchen island, ideally the bottom of your pendants should sit 30 to 36 inches above the counter-top. The same applies to hanging a chandelier over the dining table. The type of bulb you choose can also affect the look and feel of the space. LED bulbs are energy-efficient and long-lasting, while incandescent bulbs provide warm, cosy light. Consider the look you're going for and choose the right bulb type. Finally, for extra flexibility, including some dimmer switches will allow you to vary the light levels according to the activity and time of day.

Light is an integral part of the interior design of your kitchen and dining room. It's important to consider what purpose lighting will serve within different areas of the room and to choose accordingly.