The secrets of light design of the Kitchen
As psychologists approve that illumination is capable to influence an atmosphere of a premise. Therefore for kitchen it is necessary to choose such scheme of illumination which would favor to the main applicability of this premise - to be a place of preparation and reception of food. Therefore illumination of kitchen, first of all, should be uniform, not causing sharp shadows and light contrasts.
Lighting devices for kitchen can be picked up so that at various times day they provided equally comfortable level of light exposure.
For example, in the daytime usually there is enough a natural illumination. And to improve natural illumination of kitchen, furnish of walls and a ceiling needs to be executed in light tones. In this case light, getting on light surfaces, will repeatedly be reflected, that will strengthen natural light exposure. The glossy surface of kitchen furniture, also as well as mirrors, visually increases the size of kitchen under influence of day time illumination and cleans sharp sides between light and a shadow. It is necessary not to forget that well washed windows can raise light exposure of a premise up to 30 %.
????During dark period of day, and also if for normal work in the afternoon on kitchen light exposure is not sufficient, creation of comfortable conditions will be incurred with artificial light sources.
Artificial illumination is created by electric fixtures by means of which it is possible to adjust light exposure of kitchen. It is considered, that it is better to use as artificial light sources fixtures with luminescent lamps, spectral which structure of light is close to natural.
The main task of the general, or top, illumination is to support the general level of light exposure of kitchen in the evening. General light should be bright, but at the same time soft, it should be distributed in regular intervals on a room. Such light will not deform color of the prepared dishes, giving to them natural appetizing shades. It can be both usual built in the cellar fixtures, and a luster. Color illumination is not recommended to be applied as the core, but as illumination it will perfectly change kitchen space, will emphasize functional zoning a premise and to allocate design accents.
Local illumination is better to be hinged under the lockers - in this case the light will not arrest attension, and shines on only on a working surface of a table. Local illumination can also be used above a dining table.
If the size of a premise allows, the kitchen can be divided into functional zones which can be emphasized by means of small light accents.
Thus, the main task in selection of kitchen illumination is a harmony and equation of illumination. Light devices should become a harmonious part of a kitchen interior; therefore for each separate case the scheme of illumination will be individual.
Yes, that’s right….there are 3 types of lighting in a kitchen…general lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting. Of course, there is natural lighting as well. All play a role. Many people want the kitchen to be lit up like a laboratory. As a kitchen designer myself, I design lighting plans. I try to also include accent lighting to add wonderful ambiance to the room. Things not normally used, such as sconces in a kitchen - they will soften the entire feel of the utilitarian nature of the kitchen. Under cabinet lighting, which is task lighting, is very important as well, and can also be used for an accent effect in the evening, when the general lighting is shut down. Interesting article on lighting a kitchen. I encourage my clients to plan for as many windows in the kitchen as they can, to really connect with the outdoors.
February 7th, 2007 | #
There is nothing worse than trying to be creative in a room with very harsh fluorescent lights. It reminds me of a school canteen.
December 11th, 2007 | #