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Section 6:  Lighting

A variety of lighting solutions can be used within the kitchen for both practical and decorative purposes.  Below are some examples of how various lighting can be used:

Section 1: Design Overview

Section 2: The Working Triangle

Section 3: Typical Layouts

Section 4: Budgets

Section 5: Worktops

Section 6: Lighting

Section 7: Design Checklist

1. Ceiling Lights

An ideal way to light the whole kitchen is to use spotlights recessed into the ceiling.  By using a dimmer switch this will allow you to fully light the kitchen when it is being used for cooking or food preparation and then more softer lighting if the kitchen is being used as a dining area.

2. Task Lighting

The kitchen consists of several 'task areas' such as cooking, food preparation, etc.  The majority of cooker hoods now come with lighting included which is a good way of lighting a hob area, however in additon you may also wish to add under cupboard lighting to those areas that will be used the most.

3. Built-In Cabinet Lighting

Downlighters in glazed wall units and dressers provide an ideal decorative solution.

4. Over-Cupboard Lighting

Kitchens rarely go from floor to ceiling and so over-cupboard lighting is the perfect way to eliminate shadows and is particularly useful with modern designs where cornice may not be used.

5. Plinth Lighting

This is a relatively new area in kitchens and is used mainly as a decorative feature for those who really want their kitchens to make a statement.