Master the Art of Kitchen Lighting Layout-Task lighting area under which you can consider the counters, sink and cooking range area -General or ambient lighting -Display or accent lighting -Decorative lighting Once you have decided which areas to light, the next step is how to light them. Based on each area’s needs, the type of lighting fixtures can be decided. For instance, while the counter areas will need light for food preparation, the sink and store will need down lights that can focus the light on specific activities. Here, the work surfaces need the best lighting, therefore plan your kitchen lighting layout accordingly. Next comes the overall ambient lighting that needs to be sufficiently bright to allow you to move around safely in the kitchen. Remember that the lighting layout is influenced by the size of the kitchen and the various fixtures that are in it. If the kitchen is small, you may only need a fluorescent tube and some under cabinet lighting. If your kitchen is large, then you would need to consider recessed fixtures, above the sink lighting, kitchen island and pantry lighting and lighting over the dining area. If the ceiling is very high, the ambient lighting must be brighter. When you plan the lighting layout, you have to factor in the color scheme of your kitchen surfaces along with everything else. If you have dark marble, you may need extra lighting. A vital aspect in your kitchen lighting layout is energy efficiency. Fluorescent fixtures not only provide good ambient light but also help cut down on your energy bills. But by themselves, these can add shadows, so think of complementing them with the task lights, which can be track lighting over your workspace. Under cabinet lights can also light up your countertop. Some kitchens lead into a living room or a dining room. In such cases, the lighting must synchronize with these spaces. It is a good idea to use light dimmers and other lighting controls so that when you walk from one room into another, there is no drastic difference in light intensity. To sum up, your kitchen lighting layout must be done in such a way that it is just as comfortable, regardless of the number of people who are in there. Kitchen Lighting Layout to Kitchen Lighting
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