Lighting is the jewelry of the kitchen, but it’s also one of the most technical parts of the design. A beautiful kitchen that is poorly lit is like a luxury car without headlights (it looks great in the driveway, but it’s a struggle to use!).
We believe a high-performance kitchen needs layered lighting. From the height of your pendants to the placement of your task lighting, here are the essential design rules we follow to ensure your kitchen is as functional as it is beautiful.
Island Pendants
How many pendants?
While three pendants used to be the industry standard, we typically prefer to use two medium-to-large sized pendants over an island. Two larger fixtures create a more substantial architectural statement and feel more curated than three smaller, “busy” fixtures.
How high to I hang pendants over an island?
The most common mistake we see is hanging pendants too high or too low. Our standard rule is to hang the bottom of the pendant 30-36 inches above the countertop. This provides plenty of clearance for sightlines across the kitchen while ensuring the light is close enough to be effective.
How to place pendants over an island?
It may sound simple, but always ensure your pendants are perfectly centered over the island. Make sure to double check placement in the framing and electrical phase to ensure that the fixtures align with the island cabinetry and the overall flow of the room.
The Only Guide You Need to Design an Island
Layered Lighting
Recessed Lighting
Pendants are great for style, but you shouldn’t rely on them to do the heavy lifting. We always integrate recessed lighting throughout the kitchen to ensure you can adequately see what you’re doing while cooking or cleaning.
Under-Cabinet Lights
For true functionality, under-cabinet lighting is a non-negotiable. These lights provide direct task lighting for your countertops (perfect for prep work) and act as beautiful ambient lighting when you want to dim the main lights in the evening.
Dimmers
We love and recommend kitchen lights to be on a dimmer. Being able to adjust the mood of the kitchen, from bright prep-work to a soft, warm glow for late-night hosting, is a luxury detail that makes a massive difference in how the home feels.
Kitchen Island Pendant Lights:
Kitchen Lighting FAQ
Q: Should my cabinet hardware match my light fixtures?
A: Not necessarily! We love mixing metals. For example, you can pair brass cabinet hardware with matte black or polished nickel light fixtures for a more collected and layered look.
How to Mix Metals in a Kitchen
Q: How do I choose the right color for my lightbulbs?
A: We recommend a color temperature between 2700K and 3000K. This provides a warm, inviting glow that mimics natural light without feeling too yellow or too blue/sterile.
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