THE GOLDEN RULES OF LIGHTING IN THE KITCHEN.
The lighting transforms the kitchen into a real haven of peace, perfect for recharging your batteries: whether for an aperitif, a meal, homework, games or a reading session. Artificial light permeates our living spaces, making its optimization essential for everyday well-being.
A small guide to best practices for the kitchen, according to Cuisines Steam. To help you create a warm atmosphere at the heart of your kitchen, we’ve sought the advice of Maude Rondeau, President of Luminaire Authentik. She shares her tips for creating a cozy lighting atmosphere, essential for your balance and comfort.
1. Always position the lighting 30 cm (12 inches) in front of the wall units.
This ensures optimal lighting inside your cabinets, while also highlighting materials such as wood. For example, in this kitchen, the ceiling lights are strategically positioned to enhance the wall units, complemented by interior lighting, creating a soft and cozy atmosphere.
2. Don't forget to install separate circuits!
In this kitchen, we installed LED strip lights under the shelves to effectively illuminate the worktops. In addition, light fixtures placed above the backsplash and under the counter add a touch of elegance, creating a warm lounge atmosphere. It is crucial to have separate circuits: one for functional lighting dedicated to preparing meals, and the other to create a welcoming and intimate atmosphere.
FOR THE CENTRAL ISLAND
3. Make sure to install the lighting precisely in the center of the island.
For example, on this lighting plan, there are three light sources above the island. The central light is positioned exactly in the centre of the island, both horizontally and vertically, and serves as a reference point for the other two lights, which are placed equidistant from it.
4. Be vigilant about the joists!
Before you start planning your lighting, it's essential to know the structure of your ceilings. Since it is impossible to install recessed spotlights in the joists, you will need to adapt your lighting plan accordingly.
5. Vary the light sources for optimal atmosphere.
Below we suggest four types of lighting to look for in the kitchen: ambient lighting, task lighting, accent lighting and decorative lighting. By combining these different light sources, you will meet these four essential needs while creating an atmosphere that is both soothing and welcoming.
6. Orient the light sources.
Determine key areas of the kitchen, such as the cooking area, washing area, and food preparation area. For example, on this lighting plane, pendant lights illuminate the island (food preparation area and washing area), while an illuminated hood highlights the cooking area. LED strip lights are also placed to illuminate other work areas. In the walk-in pantry, LED strip lights will ensure optimal visibility of the contents of the shelves.
7. When cabinets are above the counter, align the lighting flush with the counter.
With no cabinets, you can center the lighting on the countertop. For example, in this kitchen, the pendant lighting is perfectly aligned in the center of the counter.
The must-have is ambient lighting.
Maude recommends combining functionality and design to create the ideal atmosphere: recessed spot lights for precise lighting and linear models with glass balls for more diffused light. Above the island, pendant lights will bring a warm touch to the kitchen.
Mixing different light sources is essential. "Sticking to recessed lights would create a cool atmosphere, but combining them with other types of light balances functionality and ambience," says Maude.
For a harmonious atmosphere, think of the kitchen as an extension of the living room so that it blends naturally with the other rooms in the house.
Two elements often forgotten according to Maude.
Dimmers
Choose dimmable lights to adjust the light to suit the occasion. For example, opt for dim lighting during convivial moments with family or friends, or adjust the intensity according to the seasons to create the ideal atmosphere.
Kelvin degrees
Kelvin degrees are essential for defining the color temperature. A lower Kelvin corresponds to a warmer light, while a higher Kelvin produces a cooler light. For a warm atmosphere, Maude recommends choosing a temperature between 2,500 K and 3,000 K.
AUTHENTIK LIGHTING
Luminaire Authentik is a Quebec-based company that designs, designs and manufactures Scandinavian-inspired lighting. From its West Brome studio, the company has worked on impressive projects for the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Ubisoft, WeWork, and several hotels such as the Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth. Click here to visit their online store!
