The best lighting strategies include multiple sources of light that take into consideration not just the aesthetics of the space but how the room will be used.
When it comes to planning lighting strategy for a kitchen or bath project, it's important to look at both the overall (general) lighting plan, as well as specific areas where task lighting is needed and places where accent lighting can be incorporated to add a touch of drama.
General lighting can best be accomplished with a mix of chandeliers, ceiling fixtures, recessed or track lighting. Task lighting, on the other hand, should focus on specific areas where extra light is needed, such as cooking areas (in the kitchen) or grooming areas (in the bath).
In the kitchen, task lighting should take into consideration what functions the homeowners perform in the space, including cooking and food prep, homework, hobbies, bill paying, computer work, etc.
While the vanity area is the most obvious place where task lighting is specified in the bathroom, its important to look at all of the bath functions to see where else task lighting might be needed ( i.e. in the shower, where tasks such as shaving, reading shampoo bottles, etc. may require additional lighting. Separate toilet compartments can also benefit from task lighting to facilitate reading.
While general and task lighting are critical to the functionality of the space, accent lighting is all about playing up specific aspects of the design. Accent lighting can help to define the focal point, whether it's a dramatic tile mural backsplash, a striking range hood or a beautiful stone shower alcove. To be effective, accent lighting requires at least three times as much light on the focal point as the general lighting surrounding it.
The latest LED lights also offer a host of flexible and energy-efficient options to provide accent lighting with "wow power" from under-lit countertop designs to dramatic lighting effects in the shower.
To maximize the effect of your lighting plan, the American Lighting Association offers the following tips:
KITCHEN LIGHTING
- When using recessed lighting, plan the lighting around the perimeter of the kitchen, approximately 30" away from the wall.
- For over the sink or range, recessed downlights assure even illumination. Square downlights provide a stylish alternative to the traditional round ones.
- Undercabinet lighting- including slim, energy-efficient florescent, miniature track lights and low-voltage linear systems can be used to illuminate countertops.
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| Pendent lights used for task lighting and recessed can lights used for general lighting in the kitchen |
BATH LIGHTING
- In the bathroom, lighting the grooming station properly is critically important. For lighting around smaller mirrors, the ALA notes that "decorative wall fixtures placed on each side of the mirror will provide the even, shadow-free facial illumination necessary for daily grooming tasks. For best results, mount fixtures at least 28" apart and 60" off the floor". With larger mirrors, a strip of horizontal vanity lights can be mounted about the mirror; the ALA recommends installing this 78" from the floor.
- Toe kick lighting provides added safety for middle-of-the-night bathroom tips, and can be especially helpful for those who are visually challenged.
- In the shower/tub area, recessed downlights with shielded fixtures will provide appropriate illumination while protecting reclining bathers from glare.
- Dimmer switches can be used not only to provide ambiance, but to enhance comfort for multiple users with differing light sensitivities.
- Bulb colors can also impact the way light works with the rest of the design, so don't be afraid to experiment!
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| LED lights added under this vanity are useful as a night light and create a dramatic effect visually |
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