Make it Multitask

Lighting is one of the simplest and most affordable ways to transform your kitchen and bath into comfortable, functional and attractive living spaces. When lighting a multi-purpose room, layering light allows you to effectively perform various functions within the space and always brings about the most noticeable transformation.

Kitchen concepts
“Today’s kitchen has become the hub of the house,” says Larry Lauck, vice president of communications for the American Lighting Association (ALA). “Such multi-tasking kitchens demand equally versatile lighting. Gone are the days when a single 100-watt fixture centered in the kitchen’s ceiling was sufficient.”

Key ingredients
A blend of general, task and accent lighting is the perfect recipe for kitchen lighting—a combination that allows for kitchen functions from cooking to entertaining.

Stay centered
Placing a light in the center of the ceiling supplies well-diffused general lighting, allowing you to see in drawers and tackle chores.

Underneath it
Avoid working in a shadow by installing under-cabinet lighting.

Preparation station
Recessed down lights over the sink or range provide adequate task lighting for cooking, baking and scouring.

Multi-purpose surface
The kitchen table is often used for homework, hobbies or business. A decorative pendant, operating with a dimmer control, furnishes sufficient task lighting, while allowing the option to lower the light for dining purposes. For best results, pendant lights should be mounted 30 inches above the tabletop.

Special spots
Island counters and breakfast bars benefit most from miniature, low-voltage pendants, which can add a decorative touch as well.

Inside scoop
Low-voltage, linear systems inside cabinets accentuate the items stored inside.