Recessed lighting works well to remove shadows under cabinets.
The kitchen may be one of the most traveled regions of a home. Kitchen lighting needs to be practical and layered to illuminate properly. Recessed lighting typically sits in hollow regions to cast light in a downward projection. This effect concentrates the beam to spotlight otherwise shadowed areas. When creating a plan for the kitchen, the use of each space comes into play. Recessed lighting may be most effective over countertops, appliances and sink areas. Layering the lighting schematic will help bring illumination at different levels and create a balanced look for the kitchen.
Instructions
1. Sketch a layout of your kitchen on graph paper. Mark all current light sources on the graph. This will help when planning additional recessed fixtures.
2. Mark areas that lack proper lighting on the graph. Improper lighting can refer to shadowed regions or overly lit areas. Consider whether task-oriented regions, such as over the sink, need different or additional lighting sources.
3. Walk through the kitchen and note which areas will work best with this style of lighting. Mark under the cabinets to illuminate counters and over appliances such as stoves. While developing areas for recessed lighting, also mark other spots for ambient lights, such as ceiling or track lighting. Plan all the lighting at one time to avoid glare and repetition of effort.
4. Measure the room to determine how many fixtures you might need. When considering recessed lighting, plan one light for every 6 square feet of ceiling. Go back to the graph and use the measurement to note each fixture.
5. Mark areas on the graph for switches to control the lights.
6. Take pictures of all areas in your kitchen. Photograph regions you believe will work well for recessed lighting.
7. Organize the information---the measurements, the graph and pictures---and go to your local home improvement store. Consult with the lighting expert for advice on cost-effective fixtures. Use the plan and photographs to explain how you want to add the recessed lights to your kitchen.
Tags: Recessed lighting, your kitchen, Mark areas, recessed lighting, under cabinets, will help, will work