The contemporary kitchen has transitioned from a space for preparing and enjoying food, to an extension of the living room. Another area for many kinds of activities, the kitchen is also best fitted with multi-functional lighting that is responsive to the human perspective.

Do's for kitchen lighting

1. Use diffused lighting for maximum visibility above the cooking area and worktop. Wide flood spots are a good alternative.
2. Install LED strips under high cabinets to avoid dark areas, and to increase visibility when prepping food.
3. Use luminaires that combine general lighting and accent lighting, like a track or a profile system – installed on multiple circuits. 
4. Go for multiple circuits to control luminaires individually or in groups, to cater to the task at hand. 
5. Point beams to cabinets and walls to create an indirect lighting effect. 
6. Use accent or pendant lights on the table to create an intimate space.

Don'ts for kitchen lighting

1. Overdo it with general lighting. It could interfere with the mood you’re trying to create. 
2. Position surface-mounted luminaires in front of cabinets – the doors will be obstructed.
3. Position light behind people's back, otherwise they’ll be working in their own shadow.
4. Limit the lighting options by using just one type of lighting. Mix general and accent lighting.
5. Work with one central lighting point. It will drastically limit the lighting possibilities.
6. Underestimate dimming for the kitchen. Dimming is a must while food is cooking, or for dining or relaxing.