DIY tips for kitchen lighting

The lighting that you choose for your kitchen can make all the difference in terms of both look and practicality. There is a happy balance somewhere between a kitchen that is bathed in a dim, warm and beautiful but impossible to work in glow, and one that is illuminated by harsh strip lights in the manner of an interrogation room. There are several types of lighting that will make your kitchen a pleasant and workable space to be in.

Types of kitchen lighting

From a designer's perspective, there are four main areas of lighting that you need to consider for the kitchen. You may use all or only one or two of these, but considering where they fit into your kitchen design will help you create the right environment.

• Task lighting simply means that you will require sufficient light to complete cooking and food preparation tasks safely and effectively. Halogen or even fluorescent lights are commonly used for this as their clear white light is easy to see by, and down lights can be very practical
• Accent lighting is the next type to consider. This is simply for showing off any accents or features like a pot and pan rack with copper pots, or even a display in a cabinet
• Ambient lighting provides the background lighting effect. It should be subtle, and can overlap with task lighting in some designs
• Decorative lighting is a nice extra, and involves the use of standing lights, chandeliers, or decorative fittings. Don't go over board here - more than one or two features becomes confusing and potentially garish

Consider how all these types of lighting could fit together in your kitchen; imagine and then plan on paper before beginning. Don't be afraid to seek advice from a decorator if you are unsure - lighting makes a room!

DIY kitchen lighting

Firstly, any electrical work for lighting (or for anything else) must always be completed by a qualified licensed electrician, who must show you a certification card, and sign documentation at the end of the job. Never attempt to do your own electrical work - it is too easy to make dangerous mistakes.

Decide using the above guide, on what type of lighting should best go where. Also consider energy efficiency when actually purchasing lights - most of the four categories can be met by energy efficient lights, or even better use of sunlight. Consider a skylight or light tube for poorly lit kitchens.

It is wise before purchasing the lighting to have an electrician complete a quote for any changes or new electrical installations that may be required, so that you can factor this into your budget.

Kitchen lighting tips

Lighting can make all the difference to not only the look but the functionality of your kitchen. Your safety in the kitchen will be improved greatly by proper ambient and task lighting. Accent and decorative lighting will add interest and beauty. Use these styles of lighting together to create a space of practicality and beauty.