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tyler_brown0

Kitchen Recessed Lighting Layout

3 years ago

Hello! I'm struggling with finding a good layout for my kitchen recessed lights. I've gone back and forth on a lot of layouts, and below is my latest. I'm worried they're spread out too far, but can't find a layout that doesn't feel overcrowded either. I plan to have a separate sink light on its own switch, and don't plan to do pendants over the island due to how low my ceiling is (ceiling is ~92" for reference). Any suggestions or thoughts on the layout? What size recessed lights would be best? Thanks in advance for input!!



Comments (3)

  • 3 years ago

    Read this blog post by David Warfel and search other work by him. I studied his stuff and also went to a great lighting store for my bathroom remodel, and got free design help. I had been going to places like hotels and restaurants for years wondering, why is the light so good here? But I could never break it down. Then I had my own project to do, and that motivated me. I can tell you that you don't have enough cans. You need double the number you have on each wall. As for the ones in the middle of the room lighting the floor....not necessary. You need two pendants over the island so you don't get shadows. Do not get clear glass. You can have cans directed at the other walls to bounce ambient light into the room. You can use 4 inch LED's, not sure of the beam angle, but reading up will help you. You need to get under cabinet lights as well. You also need a separate light over your sink...but just one will result in shadows. If you pair two of them, or have pendants or sconces, that would be best for the sink. Separate switch. If you have the budget, you can also do toe kick lights. There, I just tripled your lighting spend. But it will be worth it. If you really really have limited money, I would do bright under cabinet lights (see warfel again, google) and maybe a few double recessed fixtures. Maybe also you could buy your lighting from one place...and find a great lighting store somewhere near you and get free design help. How to tell if it's a great lighting store? If it serves wealthy customers and has a great showroom. Well, hopefully the people are nice.

  • 3 years ago

    Questions:

    - Is the hall door the main circulation to the Kitchen, and is that a window at the end of hallway?

    - Are you set on the island and possible pinch point behind the stools?

    - Is the side door to the exterior?

    - What is the "rectangle" directly across from the Powder door along the wall, built-in cabinets, bench, console?

    - Is there a Pantry cabinet to the left of the standard-depth refrigerator?


  • PRO
    3 years ago

    The lights you have centered on the edge of the counter need to be moved over the counter if you are trying to light workspace. They way they are here will cast shadows when you step up to the counter. Undercabinet lighting is much better for this situation.

    General rule of thumb is about 4 ft spacing between lights. I would still do pendant lights over the island - the ceiling is not that low.

    Good luck!