6 Types of Kitchen Light Fixtures That Will Transform Your Space

Not so long ago, kitchen lighting was mostly about function rather than style. A combination of fluorescent lights and powerful spots was considered to be enough to light your way through meal preparation and cleaning, and aesthetics were largely secondary.

Today, of course, a kitchen is seen as far more than a purely functional space in a house, and modern lighting options need to create a sense of atmosphere, as well as provide adequate illumination.

Choosing the right types of light fixtures can transform an everyday kitchen into a warm and welcoming space for entertaining and relaxing, and create the illumination you need for meal prep.

Because of this, your lighting options should be at the foundation of any kitchen remodeling plans you make. Here are some of the most important points to bear in mind when thinking about which styles and types of lighting fixtures to install.

There's a huge range of kitchen lighting options available, offering the variety to either build your entire décor design around or to add the vital finishing touch to a theme. Here are some of the most popular and effective fixture types.

1. Individual Flush-Mounted Ceiling Lights 

For a smaller space or an alcove in a larger kitchen, an individual flush-mounted ceiling light fixture can provide effective illumination without intruding into the room and creating a sense of claustrophobia. But a simple ceiling light doesn't need to be unassuming or boring.

Try choosing a model with an LED light source in a retro black metal frame, which can help brighten up a small space where larger fixtures could be too assertive.

Ensure the light is bright enough. Light bulb brightness is measured at 36” above the finished floor (countertop height). I like to opt for an extra-bright ceiling light and put it on a dimmer switch so you can set a more mellow mood once the evening's meal prep tasks are complete.

2. Task Lighting vs. Ambient Lighting vs. Mood Lighting

Track Lights

While track lighting has somewhat fallen out of fashion, it can still be a classic option for illuminating work surfaces, dining areas, or kitchen islands. Smaller track lights with two or three lights provide focused light to brighten up a small space, with the fixtures individually movable to avoid glare and reflections if needed.

Larger track lighting fixtures with four or more lights can serve as a kitchen's main source of illumination, again with each track light swiveling to illuminate in the precise directions your space demands.

This type of lighting is best for when you want to focus light onto a particular wall or surface. For more general lighting, I prefer can lights.

Ambient Lighting; Better with Recessed Lighting

Ambient lights should be the main source of light in the kitchen. These lights must be distributed as evenly as possible. Recessed can lights are my go-to choice for ambient illumination.

While you can plan your kitchen's recessed lighting in many different ways, the exact placement will depend on your unique space. There are two main ways to arrange recessed lighting in the kitchen: along the perimeter or in two parallel lines.

The main things to bear in mind when working with recessed lighting are:

1. Ensure there's enough light in the kitchen to see everything you need to see while making meals.

2. Space out the recessed cans evenly so they are not clustered in one spot. Having too many cans detracts from the design, while emitting too much light.

3. In general, the higher the ceiling, the fewer recessed can lights are needed.

Mood lighting

Mood lights are used to create a relaxed atmosphere in the kitchen. Wall sconces are a fantastic way to add charm and character to your kitchen.

Choose wall sconces with adjustable arms or shades to direct light exactly where it's needed most. Consider accent lighting styles that complement your kitchen's design, whether it's traditional, modern, or somewhere in between. From sleek and minimalist designs to ornate and decorative fixtures, wall sconces offer versatility and style.

For extra mood lighting, consider toe kick lights under cabinets or islands.

3. Modern or Classic Chandelier Lighting 

When you want your light fixture to make a statement, it's hard to beat a chandelier for sheer dramatic effect. While the classic chandelier image is one of the crystal and candle-style bulbs used for decorative lighting, the style can be much more modern, varied, and versatile.

Try a rope-hung chandelier with upward-pointing bulbs on a rectangular plate for a warm and rustic feel, or a chrome-finished model filled with small LED lamps for a more dramatic and eye-catching effect.

Whichever style you choose, chandeliers are generally better suited for hanging over a kitchen dining table or island, where their atmospheric illumination creates warmth as well as brightness.

If you have a big airy space over a large island or dining room table, a chandelier is a great way to add visual weight, creating a feeling of balance.

4. Modern Island Pendant Lighting 

Modern pendant lighting has become popular form of accent lighting for a reason. As more kitchens incorporate large islands, designers need a way to light the countertop below, as well as add a bit of dramatic flair. Pendant lights do it all. Depending on which fixtures you choose, pendants can help define your kitchen's décor theme.

Try a combination of black brushed metal frames with clear glass shades for a contemporary feel that's striking without dominating a space. Alternatively, go for a more attention-grabbing chrome or stainless steel finish for a look that blends more easily with your kitchen appliances and other fixtures for a smooth overall effect.

This type of fixture also has the advantage of being hung on extendable cords that can be raised or lowered according to the size of your kitchen. In rooms with higher ceilings, a longer cord will help create a more welcoming and intimate feel, while in smaller spaces, particularly spaces with low ceilings, a shorter cord or help to maximize the sense of height while still providing plenty of ambient light.

Pendant Light FAQs

Q: How high above my island countertop should I hang my pendant light?

A: Standard island height is 36 inches. You will want the bottoms of your pendant lighting fixtures to be 30 to 36 inches above that.

Q: How far apart should I space my pendants above my kitchen island?

A: In general, most pendant lights look best when their bases are spaced at least 24 inches apart. Some small islands only need two pendants, while large kitchen islands might benefit from three or more pendants.

5. Linear Lighting Fixtures

Linear lights are an interesting alternative to pendant lighting. If you want a fixture that calls less attention to itself, yet still provides useful illumination of the countertop below, then consider this type of modern fixture. Linear lights take advantage of LED lighting technology to provide a continuous strip of downward-focused light.

Most styles minimize the bulk of the fixture, which helps draw attention to the kitchen cabinets behind. Linear lights are not for every decor, but if you have opted for a minimalist kitchen design, these fixtures can help tie the whole look together.

6. Under-Cabinet Lighting 

Under-cabinet lighting is a type of accent lighting that comes in different colors, ranging from 2,700k (warm candlelight feel) to 5,500k (daylight tone). They offer an enticing blend of atmosphere and practicality.

Adding a strip of LED lights beneath a cupboard or shelving can light your workspaces with shadow-free brightness while creating a welcoming glow through the rest of the kitchen that's ideal for relaxed evenings with guests.

Alternatively, placing more powerful puck lights under your main cabinets can be a great task lighting solution.

Put Your Kitchen Lighting Fixtures First

When you're putting together your plans for a kitchen remodel, it's natural to focus on the exciting aspects of appliance choices, work surface materials, backsplash designs, dining options, and the like.

All of these are important parts of a successful kitchen design, but in many ways, it's your choice of lighting that both sets the décor tone and influences how comfortable and welcoming your finished kitchen will be.

Pay careful attention to your lighting options from the start of your renovation planning, and you'll stand a much better chance of building a kitchen you'll love to spend time in for years to come.

Ready to Remodel Your Kitchen?

If you are located in the Des Moines, IA, metro area and are in need of kitchen remodeling advice, please don't hesitate to get in touch. We love helping homeowners transform their kitchen into their dream space.