The Role of Lighting in a Kitchen Renovation

Written By Dean Williams

The kitchen is one of the most frequently used spaces in the home, yet lighting is often overlooked during renovations. However, it plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and functionality. A well-planned lighting setup enhances visibility, highlights design elements, and adapts to different needs throughout the day. Here’s how to get it right with a focus on smart lighting automation.

1. Layer Your Lighting for Maximum Impact

A well-designed kitchen lighting plan includes three essential layers:

  • Ambient & Area Lighting: The primary source of illumination, typically provided by sunlight entering through windows, recessed down lights, and specialized fixtures such as chandeliers.

  • Task Lighting: Focused lighting where it’s needed most, such as under cabinets, over countertops, and in food prep areas.

  • Accent Lighting: The finishing touch that adds depth and character, like LED strips under cabinets, toe-kick lighting, or decorative pendants.

2. Choosing the Right Fixtures

Selecting the right fixtures depends on your kitchen’s layout and functionality:

  • Pendant Lights: Ideal for adding character and focused illumination over islands or dining spaces.

  • Under-Cabinet Lighting: Reduces shadows on countertops and enhances task visibility—LED strips or puck lights work best.

  • Down Lighting: Provides sleek, unobtrusive general illumination.

  • Toe-Kick Lighting: Offers subtle illumination for nighttime kitchen visits, improving safety and ambiance.

3. Getting the Light Temperature Right

Light temperature (measured in Kelvins) sets the kitchen’s atmosphere:

  • Warm White (2700K–3000K): Creates a cozy, inviting feel—ideal for traditional or farmhouse-style kitchens.

  • Cool White (3500K–4500K): A balanced, crisp light that suits modern and contemporary spaces.

  • Daylight (5000K–6500K): Bright and energizing—useful for detail-oriented tasks but can feel too harsh if overdone.

For optimal brightness, aim for 4,000–5,000 lumens in work areas, while accent lighting should be softer for ambiance.

4. Smart Lighting and Automation

Integrating smart lighting adds convenience, energy efficiency, and customization to your kitchen:

  • Dimmers & Scene Control: Using Lutron controls, you can create preset scenes that adjust lighting levels based on time of day or activity, such as dimmed lights for late-night visits.

  • Motion Sensors: Hands-free lighting for pantries or under-cabinet areas.

  • App & Voice Control: Control lights remotely or with voice commands using Alexa, Google Assistant, or HomeKit.

  • Tunable White & Color LEDs: Adjust light temperature or colors to suit different activities and moods.

5. Common Lighting Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping Task Lighting: Insufficient lighting makes food prep difficult and increases strain.

  • Not Using Dimmers: Fixed brightness can make a kitchen feel too harsh or too dim.

  • Poor Fixture Placement: Misplaced recessed lights or low-hanging pendants can create unwanted shadows or glare.

Final Thoughts

Lighting shouldn’t be an afterthought in a kitchen renovation. By layering different types of lighting, selecting the right fixtures, and incorporating smart automation, you can create a space that’s both visually appealing and highly functional. Thoughtfully planned lighting enhances everyday tasks, improves ambiance, and brings a new level of convenience to your kitchen.

Dean Williams