The interior of a spacious kitchen with an island will not look complete without special lighting of this important and noticeable area. Our tips site will tell you what are the pendant lights that are traditionally located above the kitchen island, as well as the criteria for their selection..
Interior design experts identify four types of lighting that can be used not only in the kitchen, but also in any other room of the house:
- Working. This is local lighting that clearly highlights a specific area. On the kitchen island, under such a directed light, it will be very convenient to cook, read recipes, you will see every crumb on the countertop. Luminaires with an open bottom are best suited for working lighting, with shades that direct the light flow clearly downward..
- General. Or ambient lighting. Actually, it can be one chandelier with diffused light that spreads throughout the room. This kind of lighting is ideal if for the most part just having dinner over the kitchen island, rather than cooking. General ambient lighting above this area will create a more intimate setting, like in a restaurant or cafe..
- Accent. Emphasizes the design and decor features of the kitchen island. For example, if you choose a very beautiful wooden slab or marble countertop. Or the island itself has an original shape, beautiful details that need to be emphasized are located on it.
- Decorative. In this case, it is advisable to direct the light upwards, that is, choose special shades that will create interesting shadows on the ceiling. Such lighting should be used only if the kitchen has enough other light sources – working and general. Pendant lamps with decorative light will simply decorate the kitchen, they have little functionality.
It is quite permissible to use track lamps over the kitchen island, the features of which the portal devoted a detailed article to. They are a good choice if the ceiling height is not too high and the pendant lights look out of place..
Important! Designers advise placing pendant lights above the island’s tabletop so that from the working area to the bottom of the plafond is from 75 to 95 centimeters. It is in this case that the lighting will be as effective as possible, and the lamps themselves will become part of the decorative design – guests will not have a chance to immediately look into the plafond, see the light bulb.
As for the choice of appearance, model of a pendant lamp for a kitchen island, it can be absolutely anything. It all depends on the style of the interior of the entire kitchen chosen by the owners and the desire to add a decorative effect. Among the trends of 2020:
- Pendant lights with copper shades that perfectly match the wood on cabinet fronts.
- Retro lamps. Not economical, but very effective, ideal for rustic interior styles.
- Concise glass balls, both opaque and transparent.
- Forged, metal fixtures that can go well with other metal parts such as faucets, appliances and sinks.
Of course, classic pendant chandeliers that add luxury to the design of the kitchen also do not go out of fashion..
Important! Most often, no more than two or three pendant lamps are placed above the kitchen island..
What factors should be considered when selecting pendant lights for a kitchen island? Are there any specific design or functional aspects that should be taken into account?
When selecting pendant lights for a kitchen island, there are several factors to consider. First, the size and height of the island should determine the number and size of pendant lights needed. The style and decor of the kitchen should also influence the design of the pendant lights to ensure they complement the overall look.
Functionality is also important, as the pendant lights should provide adequate lighting for tasks such as cooking and preparation. Consider the type of light bulbs needed, the brightness level, and if the lights should be dimmable.
Additionally, the placement of the pendant lights should be considered to avoid shadows on the countertop. Adjustable or swivel pendant lights can provide flexibility in directing light where it is needed. Installation requirements, such as wiring and mounting options, should also be taken into account when selecting pendant lights for a kitchen island.
What are some factors to consider when selecting pendant lights for a kitchen island?