Are you trying to find the perfect lighting for your kitchen island? Finding a mix between the style you want to achieve and the type of lighting you need can be challenging!
Lighting is one of the most important aspects of a kitchen and can often be overlooked. When choosing what lighting you want over your kitchen island you must consider several factors. Things like the type of lighting, the style, design, and the lighting requirements for daily tasks.
Lighting fixtures offer different types of light based on the shape and materials used. Some provide ambient light, while others are great for task lighting. Considering your needs will ensure you are satisfied with your final decision and save you money, time, and headaches.
Lighting Over Kitchen Island
Pendant Lighting Over Kitchen Island
Pendant lighting is a great option to consider for your kitchen island. Pendant lights come in various styles, sizes, and designs that can enhance the look and feel of your kitchen.
Lighting is important in all areas of your home, but particularly in the kitchen where a direct and plentiful light source is required for daily tasks. Since pendant lights are generally smaller than chandeliers you can place multiple pendant lights over a kitchen island. This will give the island a direct and bright light source when preparing meals. Although pendant lighting is excellent at providing your island with ample lighting, your kitchen requires other sources of light to fully illuminate it.
When it comes to installing your pendant light be sure to consider the following guidelines;
- Pendant lighting should be placed 30″ – 36″ above the island’s surface. This can vary depending on personal height, ceiling height, and the look you are trying to achieve.
- One or multiple pendant lights can be used over the island’s surface, but ensure that the outer edge of the light is a minimum of 6″ from the end of the island.
- As a general rule of thumb space each light 30″ – 32″ apart, depending on the island length, the number of lights used, and the diameter of each light.
- Choose pendant lighting size based on the area that you are working with. For example, a large island and tall ceilings require larger-sized fixtures than a small island or short ceilings.
Pendant Lighting Styles And Placements
This beautiful kitchen features two dome-shaped pendant lights that have the following features:
- Provides an excellent source of task lighting and ample illumination to the surface area of the island.
- Are spaced equally from the outer edge of the island’s surface with a direct line of sight down the middle.
- The design of the light complements contemporary and modern style homes.
This gorgeous glam kitchen features three cylinder style pendant lights that have the following features:
- The minimal diameter of each lighting fixture makes it a great choice for a smaller island.
- The cylinder shape of each light provides some direct lighting for tasks, but with a smaller surface area than say a larger dome-shaped light.
- The crystal material disperses light in various directions creating ambiant light and casting a soft glow.
- The overall design of this look would complement a luxurious style home.
Two metal cone-shaped pendant lights create a focal point in this stunning farmhouse-style kitchen and have the following features:
- The metal material of the light provides direct task lighting aimed at the surface below.
- Each light is spaced evenly from the sink and edge of the island.
- The metal design of the light would complement farmhouse, industrial, and mid-century style homes.
