{"id":290,"date":"2023-02-03T21:46:28","date_gmt":"2023-02-03T21:46:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/?p=41"},"modified":"2024-01-18T13:08:34","modified_gmt":"2024-01-18T13:08:34","slug":"how-many-lumens-for-kitchen","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/how-many-lumens-for-kitchen\/","title":{"rendered":"How Many Lumens Do I Really Need For A Well-lit Kitchen?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p style=\"font-size:14px\"><em>This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I might make a small commission at no extra cost to you. <strong>In fact, you get a 10% discount using the code &#8220;ZACH&#8221;.<\/strong> Thanks for the support and hope you enjoy the read!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A well-lit dramatic kitchen can solidify your home&#8217;s lighting plan &#8211; it can have so much character! So in this guide, I&#8217;ll explain everything there is to say about properly lighting your kitchen with the perfect distribution of lumens. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>First things first, how many lumens do you need to have a perfectly lit kitchen?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-image aligncenter uagb-block-c4428337 wp-block-uagb-image--layout-default wp-block-uagb-image--effect-static wp-block-uagb-image--align-center\"><figure class=\"wp-block-uagb-image__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Modern-kitchen-1-1024x683.jpg , https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Modern-kitchen-1-1024x683.jpg 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 480px) 150px\" src=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Modern-kitchen-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Modern kitchen with several lighting types and fixtures\" class=\"uag-image-437\" width=\"970\" height=\"683\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The average kitchen needs about 3500 to 5500 lumens of ambient light. You should aim for 35 lumens per square foot (or 380 lumens per square meter) of the kitchen. Task lighting, such as under the cabinet for cooking, should be 70 lumens per square foot (or 750 per square meter) <em>of your task area<\/em>. LED strips should be 200-500 lumens per foot (600-1600 lumens per meter).<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can already tell that this question is more complicated than it may seem at first. Kitchen lighting must be the best possible for you to work in there without any inconvenience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And even if you follow the general rules that bigger spaces need more lighting and so on, you still need to adjust your lights to the design of your own kitchen and your specific quirks.<\/p>\n\n\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-table-of-contents uagb-toc__align-left uagb-toc__columns-1  uagb-block-af0d1766     \"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-scroll= \"1\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-offset= \"30\"\n\t\t\t\t\tstyle=\"\"\n\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uagb-toc__wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uagb-toc__title\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTable Of Contents\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uagb-toc__list-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<ol class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#what-are-lumens-and-why-are-they-important-in-the-kitchen\" class=\"uagb-toc-link__trigger\">What Are Lumens And Why Are They Important In The Kitchen?<\/a><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#factors-to-consider-when-choosing-lumens-for-your-kitchen\" class=\"uagb-toc-link__trigger\">Factors To Consider When Choosing Lumens For Your Kitchen<\/a><ul class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#1-kitchen-size\" class=\"uagb-toc-link__trigger\">1. Kitchen size<\/a><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#2-ceiling-height-and-dark-kitchen\" class=\"uagb-toc-link__trigger\">2. Ceiling height and dark kitchen<\/a><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#3-type-of-task-being-performed\" class=\"uagb-toc-link__trigger\">3. Type of task being performed<\/a><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#4-color-temperature\" class=\"uagb-toc-link__trigger\">4. Color temperature<\/a><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#5-style-and-decor\" class=\"uagb-toc-link__trigger\">5. Style and decor<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#best-fixture-choices-for-all-types-of-kitchen-lighting\" class=\"uagb-toc-link__trigger\">Best Fixture Choices For All Types Of Kitchen Lighting<\/a><ul class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#ambient-lighting\" class=\"uagb-toc-link__trigger\">Ambient lighting<\/a><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#task-lighting\" class=\"uagb-toc-link__trigger\">Task lighting<\/a><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#accent-lighting\" class=\"uagb-toc-link__trigger\">Accent lighting<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#conclusion\" class=\"uagb-toc-link__trigger\">Conclusion<\/a><li class=\"uagb-toc__list\"><a href=\"#related-questions\" class=\"uagb-toc-link__trigger\">Related Questions<\/a><\/ul><\/ul><\/ol>\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-ba98f3ed\"><h2 class=\"uagb-heading-text\">What Are Lumens And Why Are They Important In The Kitchen?<\/h2><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Lumens are used to measure the amount of light that is emitted from any light source. In short, the higher the number of lumens, the brighter the light. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This unit is the only relevant measure for brightness right now. It has almost completely <a href=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/how-many-lumens-is-a-60-watt-bulb\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">replaced watts<\/a>, which are outdated. Watts measure the energy used by the light source, which is not accurate anymore, since we have developed way more energy-efficient light bulbs (e.g. LEDs).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So even though lumens will help us determine how much light we need in the kitchen, we first need to establish their relationship to the kitchen area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Not all areas of the kitchen need the same lumens!<\/strong> While you should try to have about 30 to 40 lumens per square foot (300-400 lumens per square meter), <strong>this is only applicable to ambient lighting.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The perfect lighting for cooking is task lighting of about 60-80 lumens per square foot (650-850 per square meter).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I recommend installing LED strips under the cabinet &#8211; they have many advantages over their fluorescent and halogen counterparts. In this case, look for 200-500 lumens per foot (600-1600 per meter). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Over 500 would be bright but could work if you don&#8217;t have much ambient light like recessed can lights, pendants, and so on. Less than 200 might not be bright enough. If you are unsure, get some dimmable LEDs. That way you can always control the brightness exactly as you want it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> Install motion-activated LED strips under the bottom cabinets and use a sensor. Super elegant feel and no more toe stubbing during late-night kitchen trips!<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-image aligncenter uagb-block-b65c1eab wp-block-uagb-image--layout-default wp-block-uagb-image--effect-static wp-block-uagb-image--align-center\"><figure class=\"wp-block-uagb-image__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Under_cabinet_toe_LED.jpg , https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Under_cabinet_toe_LED.jpg 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 480px) 150px\" src=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/Under_cabinet_toe_LED.jpg\" alt=\"Kitchen with LED strips under the lower cabinets\" class=\"uag-image-361\" width=\"533\" height=\"272\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><figcaption class=\"uagb-image-caption\"><em>Photo by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houzz.co.uk\/photos\/barnes-terrace-contemporary-kitchen-london-phvw-vp~25329010\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">PlaceDesign Kitchens and Interiors<\/a><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some recommended lumens for common kitchen areas:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Task lighting over a sink: 500-700 lumens<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Task lighting over a stove: 700-900 lumens<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Task lighting over a kitchen island: 800-1000 lumens<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines and the actual amount of lumens you will need may vary based on the size of your kitchen, the layout, and the natural light that enters the space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let&#8217;s get into that in more detail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-074c2be2\"><h2 class=\"uagb-heading-text\">Factors To Consider When Choosing Lumens For Your Kitchen<\/h2><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-4c7436ed\"><h3 class=\"uagb-heading-text\">1. Kitchen size<\/h3><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The first thing that will help you figure out your lumen needs is the size of your kitchen. You should aim for <strong>30-40 lumens per square foot (or 300-400 lumens per square meter).<\/strong> This is only about ambient light though, which aims to create a comfortable and even level of light throughout your space. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For ambient light, you can use <strong>ceiling lights, wall-mounted fixtures, or recessed spotlights.<\/strong> For most kitchens, ceiling lights and recessed spotlights should be enough. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Traditional architecture might work better with wall-mounted fixtures such as <a href=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/should-you-use-kitchen-sconces\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"869\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">sconces<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-a2f0d8ad\"><h3 class=\"uagb-heading-text\">2. Ceiling height and dark kitchen<\/h3><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>If your ceiling height is more than 10 feet (3 meters), you will need more than 30 to 40 lumens per square foot (300-400 lumens per square meter).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the case of ceiling lights or recessed spotlights, the light source will be further away from the main kitchen area. With sconces or uplighters, more light will be diffused away from the source. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There is no clear-cut way around this, but I would suggest increasing your lumens by <strong>5% for every extra foot (30 cm)<\/strong>. Remember that it&#8217;s better to over-light than under-light a space. And if you&#8217;re not sure, you can install dimmers to control the brightness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For low ceilings, you can read <a href=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/9-easy-tips-to-light-a-kitchen-with-low-ceiling\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"701\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">this guide.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dark kitchens can achieve an interesting, moodier effect, and they are very modern. However, they require more lumens to be properly lit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-image aligncenter uagb-block-7077533f wp-block-uagb-image--layout-default wp-block-uagb-image--effect-static wp-block-uagb-image--align-center\"><figure class=\"wp-block-uagb-image__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Dark-colored-modern-kitchen-1024x683.jpg ,https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Dark-colored-modern-kitchen-1024x683.jpg 780w, https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Dark-colored-modern-kitchen-1024x683.jpg 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 480px) 150px\" src=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Dark-colored-modern-kitchen-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Black kitchen\" class=\"uag-image-441\" width=\"723\" height=\"433\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>If your kitchen has dark paint or low natural light, go for 10-20% more lumens of ambient light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-43341779\"><h3 class=\"uagb-heading-text\">3. Type of task being performed<\/h3><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Although ambient light is very important to set the overall tone of your lighting scheme, it&#8217;s usually not enough for specific things. This is why we need task lighting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Task lighting in the kitchen should be about 60-80 lumens per square foot (or 600-800 lumens per square meter) of your task area. The most common task lighting for the kitchen would be under-the-cabinet <strong>LED strips, wall sconces, and overhead lights<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/pendant-over-the-kitchen-sink\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"768\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">over the sink<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have a kitchen island, target task lighting could be achieved by <strong>pendants<\/strong>. Consider multiple larger ones, and make sure they provide <strong>focused beams<\/strong> rather than distributing light in all directions. You can find more info on how to <a href=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/how-to-light-your-kitchen-island\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"682\">properly light your kitchen island here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even though chandeliers are not ideal for task lighting, they can definitely work in some kitchens!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-0389c158 alignfull uagb-is-root-container\"><div class=\"uagb-container-inner-blocks-wrap\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-d883386b\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-image uagb-block-b85184f5 wp-block-uagb-image--layout-default wp-block-uagb-image--effect-static wp-block-uagb-image--align-none\"><figure class=\"wp-block-uagb-image__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/modern-pendants-in-kitchen-1024x683.jpg , https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/modern-pendants-in-kitchen-1024x683.jpg 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 480px) 150px\" src=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/modern-pendants-in-kitchen-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Modern pendants hanging over kitchen island\" class=\"uag-image-443\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><figcaption class=\"uagb-image-caption\"><em>Kitchen island pendants with a modern feel<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-56099ef1\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-image uagb-block-3b0225d0 wp-block-uagb-image--layout-default wp-block-uagb-image--effect-static wp-block-uagb-image--align-none\"><figure class=\"wp-block-uagb-image__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Kitchen-table-chandelier-cropped-1024x819.jpg , https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Kitchen-table-chandelier-cropped-1024x819.jpg 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 480px) 150px\" src=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Kitchen-table-chandelier-cropped-1024x819.jpg\" alt=\"Chandelier over kitchen table\" class=\"uag-image-444\" width=\"894\" height=\"715\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><figcaption class=\"uagb-image-caption\"><em>A classic chandelier works best in traditional\/transitional kitchen styles<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-3cc2c4b1\"><h3 class=\"uagb-heading-text\">4. Color temperature<\/h3><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Color temperature is measured in Kelvins and indicates how yellow or blue the light is. <strong>Lower values are warmer and more yellowish (2700\u20133000 K) and higher values are cooler and more blueish (4000\u20135000 K).<\/strong> In general, 3000-4000 K is good for kitchens. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, you can read my <a href=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/warm-vs-cool-white\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">guide on color temperature<\/a>, which explains the benefits of each side of the spectrum and will help you figure out which is best for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Go for a consistent temperature that highlights the rest of your kitchen&#8217;s design. Warm light is best for earthly colors and materials, such as brown, grey, green, and wooden surfaces, while cooler light is best for contemporary &#8220;sharp&#8221; architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-ec75c435\"><h3 class=\"uagb-heading-text\">5. Style and decor<\/h3><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Although it&#8217;s always advisable to use three layers of light, the kitchen might not benefit much from accent lighting. If you have artwork or decor in your kitchen that you&#8217;d like to light up, you can use <strong>LED strips, puck lights, or directional can lights<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-e124cea3 alignfull uagb-is-root-container\"><div class=\"uagb-container-inner-blocks-wrap\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:0;padding-left:0;font-size:30px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/the-ultimate-guide-to-kitchen-lighting-2023\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"964\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Read More From The Blog<\/strong>&#8230;<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-post-grid uagb-post-grid  uagb-post__image-position-top uagb-post__image-enabled uagb-block-7c6f4f8e     uagb-post__items uagb-post__columns-1 is-grid uagb-post__columns-tablet-2 uagb-post__columns-mobile-1 uagb-post__equal-height\" data-total=\"1\" style=\"\">\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<article class=\"uagb-post__inner-wrap\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class='uagb-post__image'>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/the-ultimate-guide-to-kitchen-lighting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"bookmark noopener noreferrer\" class=\"uagb-image-ratio-inherit\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"903\" src=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/kitchenulti-1024x903.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Kitchen lighting\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/kitchenulti-1024x903.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/kitchenulti-300x265.jpg 300w, https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/kitchenulti-768x678.jpg 768w, https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/kitchenulti-1536x1355.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/kitchenulti.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"uagb-post__title uagb-post__text\">\n\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/the-ultimate-guide-to-kitchen-lighting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"bookmark noopener noreferrer\">The Ultimate Guide To Kitchen Lighting [2024]<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/h4>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class='uagb-post__text uagb-post-grid-byline'>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<time datetime=\"2023-09-29T07:54:56+00:00\" class=\"uagb-post__date\">\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"dashicons-calendar dashicons\"><\/span>\t\t\t\t\tSeptember 29, 2023\t\t\t\t<\/time>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class='uagb-post__text uagb-post__excerpt'>\n\t\t\t\t\t<p>So you&#8217;ve decided to redo your kitchen lighting or are building it from scratch. Or you&#8217;re simply super interested in lighting tips and just looking around (in which case you&#8217;re my favorite person). Well, look no further because, in this guide, we will talk about *everything* kitchen lighting. From start to finish, you&#8217;ll learn how&#8230;\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"uagb-post__text uagb-post__cta wp-block-button\">\n\t\t\t\t<a class=\"wp-block-button__link uagb-text-link\" href=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/the-ultimate-guide-to-kitchen-lighting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"bookmark noopener noreferrer\">Read More<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-0cdeb1f6\"><h2 class=\"uagb-heading-text\">Best Fixture Choices For All Types Of Kitchen Lighting<\/h2><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-bc3203d0\"><h3 class=\"uagb-heading-text\">Ambient lighting<\/h3><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Recessed can lights (most common)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chandelier(s)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Semi-Flush\/Flush mount light<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Chandeliers are an excellent choice for ambient lighting in kitchens. They work really well with recessed can lights and can be placed over your kitchen island or table. I am a huge nerd for <a href=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/chandelier-in-the-kitchen\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"896\">unique and modern chandeliers<\/a>, so maybe I&#8217;m a bit biased but meh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-12ebcb70 alignfull uagb-is-root-container\"><div class=\"uagb-container-inner-blocks-wrap\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-0fc6a9d7\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-image uagb-block-53df3736 wp-block-uagb-image--layout-default wp-block-uagb-image--effect-zoomin wp-block-uagb-image--align-none\"><figure class=\"wp-block-uagb-image__figure\"><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/residencesupply.com\/collections\/chandeliers\/products\/olenna-chandelier?sca_ref=5233857.u16sM6fsto&amp;utm_source=program-126078&amp;utm_medium=program-standard-affiliate-commission&amp;utm_campaign=affiliate-achillefs-zervos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/olenna-chandelier-976330_800x800.webp ,https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/olenna-chandelier-976330_800x800.webp 780w, https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/olenna-chandelier-976330_800x800.webp 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 480px) 150px\" src=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/olenna-chandelier-976330_800x800.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"uag-image-1313\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/a><figcaption class=\"uagb-image-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/residencesupply.com\/collections\/chandeliers\/products\/olenna-chandelier?sca_ref=5233857.u16sM6fsto&amp;utm_source=program-126078&amp;utm_medium=program-standard-affiliate-commission&amp;utm_campaign=affiliate-achillefs-zervos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Olenna Chandelier &#8211; Buy Now!<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-d202f588\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-image uagb-block-8b2b5436 wp-block-uagb-image--layout-default wp-block-uagb-image--effect-zoomin wp-block-uagb-image--align-none\"><figure class=\"wp-block-uagb-image__figure\"><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/residencesupply.com\/collections\/chandeliers\/products\/deleazo-chandelier?sca_ref=5233857.u16sM6fsto&amp;utm_source=program-126078&amp;utm_medium=program-standard-affiliate-commission&amp;utm_campaign=affiliate-achillefs-zervos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/deleazo-chandelier-587503_800x800.webp ,https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/deleazo-chandelier-587503_800x800.webp 780w, https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/deleazo-chandelier-587503_800x800.webp 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 480px) 150px\" src=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/deleazo-chandelier-587503_800x800.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"uag-image-1310\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/a><figcaption class=\"uagb-image-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/residencesupply.com\/collections\/chandeliers\/products\/deleazo-chandelier?sca_ref=5233857.u16sM6fsto&amp;utm_source=program-126078&amp;utm_medium=program-standard-affiliate-commission&amp;utm_campaign=affiliate-achillefs-zervos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Deleazo Chandelier &#8211; Buy Now!<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-82c0b9ce\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-image uagb-block-a28047ea wp-block-uagb-image--layout-default wp-block-uagb-image--effect-zoomin wp-block-uagb-image--align-none\"><figure class=\"wp-block-uagb-image__figure\"><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/residencesupply.com\/collections\/chandeliers\/products\/linea-chandelier?sca_ref=5233857.u16sM6fsto&amp;utm_source=program-126078&amp;utm_medium=program-standard-affiliate-commission&amp;utm_campaign=affiliate-achillefs-zervos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/linea-chandelier-348791_800x800.webp ,https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/linea-chandelier-348791_800x800.webp 780w, https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/linea-chandelier-348791_800x800.webp 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 480px) 150px\" src=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/linea-chandelier-348791_800x800.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"uag-image-1312\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1600\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/a><figcaption class=\"uagb-image-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/residencesupply.com\/collections\/chandeliers\/products\/linea-chandelier?sca_ref=5233857.u16sM6fsto&amp;utm_source=program-126078&amp;utm_medium=program-standard-affiliate-commission&amp;utm_campaign=affiliate-achillefs-zervos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Linea Chandelier &#8211; Buy Now!<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Anyway, keep in mind that chandeliers may restrict your options for task lighting. They usually diffuse light more than pendants and rarely have a focused beam. If you use the kitchen island or table for hobbies like reading or knitting, or if your kids use it to study while you cook, a chandelier might not be the best option. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-5d47ec0b\"><h3 class=\"uagb-heading-text\">Task lighting<\/h3><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Pendants<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Under cabinet lighting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Track lighting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recessed can lights<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Pendants are my favorite choice for kitchen islands, especially in modern kitchens. But of course, don&#8217;t use them in conjunction with chandeliers &#8211; that would look off!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-b6c389d7 alignfull uagb-is-root-container\"><div class=\"uagb-container-inner-blocks-wrap\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-d5265fd9\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-image uagb-block-637b422f wp-block-uagb-image--layout-default wp-block-uagb-image--effect-zoomin wp-block-uagb-image--align-none\"><figure class=\"wp-block-uagb-image__figure\"><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/residencesupply.com\/collections\/lighting-fixtures\/products\/macaron-pendant-light?sca_ref=5233857.u16sM6fsto&amp;utm_source=program-126078&amp;utm_medium=program-standard-affiliate-commission&amp;utm_campaign=affiliate-achillefs-zervos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/macaron-pendant-light-537616_800x800.webp ,https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/macaron-pendant-light-537616_800x800.webp 780w, https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/macaron-pendant-light-537616_800x800.webp 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 480px) 150px\" src=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/macaron-pendant-light-537616_800x800.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"uag-image-1314\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/a><figcaption class=\"uagb-image-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/residencesupply.com\/collections\/lighting-fixtures\/products\/macaron-pendant-light?sca_ref=5233857.u16sM6fsto&amp;utm_source=program-126078&amp;utm_medium=program-standard-affiliate-commission&amp;utm_campaign=affiliate-achillefs-zervos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Macaron Pendants &#8211; Buy Now!<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-3d0aa3aa\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-image uagb-block-87fd1e22 wp-block-uagb-image--layout-default wp-block-uagb-image--effect-zoomin wp-block-uagb-image--align-none\"><figure class=\"wp-block-uagb-image__figure\"><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/residencesupply.com\/collections\/pendant-lights\/products\/rangeen-pendant-light?sca_ref=5233857.u16sM6fsto&amp;utm_source=program-126078&amp;utm_medium=program-standard-affiliate-commission&amp;utm_campaign=affiliate-achillefs-zervos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/rangeen-pendant-light-166222_800x800.webp ,https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/rangeen-pendant-light-166222_800x800.webp 780w, https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/rangeen-pendant-light-166222_800x800.webp 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 480px) 150px\" src=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/rangeen-pendant-light-166222_800x800.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"uag-image-1315\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/a><figcaption class=\"uagb-image-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/residencesupply.com\/collections\/pendant-lights\/products\/rangeen-pendant-light?sca_ref=5233857.u16sM6fsto&amp;utm_source=program-126078&amp;utm_medium=program-standard-affiliate-commission&amp;utm_campaign=affiliate-achillefs-zervos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Rangeen Pendant &#8211; Buy Now!<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-793fe2ce\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-image uagb-block-23b485c5 wp-block-uagb-image--layout-default wp-block-uagb-image--effect-zoomin wp-block-uagb-image--align-none\"><figure class=\"wp-block-uagb-image__figure\"><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/residencesupply.com\/collections\/pendant-lights\/products\/color-block-shade-pendant-lamp?sca_ref=5233857.u16sM6fsto&amp;utm_source=program-126078&amp;utm_medium=program-standard-affiliate-commission&amp;utm_campaign=affiliate-achillefs-zervos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/color-block-shade-pendant-light-666454_800x800.webp ,https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/color-block-shade-pendant-light-666454_800x800.webp 780w, https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/color-block-shade-pendant-light-666454_800x800.webp 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 480px) 150px\" src=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/color-block-shade-pendant-light-666454_800x800.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"uag-image-1316\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/a><figcaption class=\"uagb-image-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/residencesupply.com\/collections\/pendant-lights\/products\/color-block-shade-pendant-lamp?sca_ref=5233857.u16sM6fsto&amp;utm_source=program-126078&amp;utm_medium=program-standard-affiliate-commission&amp;utm_campaign=affiliate-achillefs-zervos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Color Block Shade Pendant &#8211; Buy Now!<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>LED strips under the cabinet are by far the best lighting option for preparing food and using the sink. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-image aligncenter uagb-block-c629685c wp-block-uagb-image--layout-default wp-block-uagb-image--effect-static wp-block-uagb-image--align-center\"><figure class=\"wp-block-uagb-image__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Futuristic-LED-sink-edited-1024x1024.jpg , https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Futuristic-LED-sink-edited-1024x1024.jpg 360w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 480px) 150px\" src=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Futuristic-LED-sink-edited-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Kitchen sink with under-the-cabinet LED strip\" class=\"uag-image-446\" width=\"523\" height=\"523\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><figcaption class=\"uagb-image-caption\"><em>LED strips under the cabinet look very elegant and can help a lot while cooking<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>They can also be used with a motion sensor inside your cabinets and drawers &#8211; just like a fridge light!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-0353ef7d\"><h3 class=\"uagb-heading-text\">Accent lighting<\/h3><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>LED strips<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>LED puck lights<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The installation of these lights is straightforward and they can be used to highlight any artwork or decor to give an extra touch to the overall feel of your kitchen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-image aligncenter uagb-block-e05e6802 wp-block-uagb-image--layout-default wp-block-uagb-image--effect-static wp-block-uagb-image--align-center\"><figure class=\"wp-block-uagb-image__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Uplight-shelves-683x1024.jpg \" sizes=\"(max-width: 480px) 150px\" src=\"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Uplight-shelves-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Uplight in shelves\" class=\"uag-image-447\" width=\"362\" height=\"1024\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"\/><figcaption class=\"uagb-image-caption\"><em>Uplighting open shelves can double as task and accent lighting. Practical but also decorative!<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-994250e6\"><h2 class=\"uagb-heading-text\">Conclusion<\/h2><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>A well-lit kitchen is essential for preparing meals and entertaining guests. Not only that, it can also be a design haven if the lighting is used right.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To achieve a well-lit kitchen, you need to consider the type of light sources, the total number of lumens needed, the placement of the lights, and the type of light fixtures you will be using. With the right amount of light, you can create a functional and inviting space that will be the heart of your home!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-advanced-heading uagb-block-52321602\"><h2 class=\"uagb-heading-text\"><strong>Related Questions<\/strong><\/h2><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Are LED lights bright enough for a kitchen?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>LEDs can absolutely be bright enough for a kitchen! Aim for 30-60 lumens per square foot. Under the cabinet is a perfect position for LED strips. Ambient lighting is better achieved with recessed can lights, chandeliers, flush mount lights, and pendants that diffuse light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What LED color is best for the kitchen?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The best LED color for kitchens is white. The kitchen is a functional room and it is best to avoid dramatic lighting. A good color temperature is 3000 K but this depends on your personal preferences and the overall design of the kitchen. Yellow-orange LEDs with a motion sensor are excellent for late-night trips to the kitchen. They can be installed underneath the lower cabinets to avoid toe stubbing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How many lumens do I need for kitchen pendant lights?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pendant lights should be about 40-60 lumens per square foot of the kitchen island. Focused pendants can be a bit less, while diffuse pendants can be a bit brighter.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A well-lit dramatic kitchen can solidify your home&#8217;s lighting plan &#8211; it can have so much character! So in this guide, I&#8217;ll explain everything there is to say about properly lighting your kitchen with the perfect distribution of lumens. First things first, how many lumens do you need to have a perfectly lit kitchen? The [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":437,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[54,52],"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Modern-kitchen-1.jpg",1920,1280,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Modern-kitchen-1-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Modern-kitchen-1-300x200.jpg",300,200,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Modern-kitchen-1-768x512.jpg",768,512,true],"large":["https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Modern-kitchen-1-1024x683.jpg",1024,683,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Modern-kitchen-1-1536x1024.jpg",1536,1024,true],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Modern-kitchen-1.jpg",1920,1280,false],"mailpoet_newsletter_max":["https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Modern-kitchen-1.jpg",1320,880,false]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"Zach","author_link":"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/author\/zach\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"A well-lit dramatic kitchen can solidify your home&#8217;s lighting plan &#8211; it can have so much character! So in this guide, I&#8217;ll explain everything there is to say about properly lighting your kitchen with the perfect distribution of lumens. First things first, how many lumens do you need to have a perfectly lit kitchen? The&hellip;","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/290"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=290"}],"version-history":[{"count":83,"href":"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/290\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1441,"href":"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/290\/revisions\/1441"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/437"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=290"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=290"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/plottedlights.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=290"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}