Lighting Safety

Regarding lighting in the kitchen, Jim Speirs, director general of NICEIC (an independent regulatory body for electrical installation safety) recommends applying care and attention to the design and installation of switches. ‘Make sure any switches are fitted at least 300mm away from the sink and taps to stop water coming into contact with electricity,’ he says. If you have any safety queries about lighting installation in the kitchen, visit www.niceic.org.uk or call 0870 013 0391.

Mood Lighting

Mood lighting is used to create atmosphere and can be achieved in a variety of ways from uplighters on cabinet tops to LEDs set into an island. For greater control over light levels, also consider fitting dimmers.

Task Lighting

To create a safe kitchen environment, worksurfaces and food preparation areas need to be effectively lit. Don’t rely on general light from infront or behind, as this will cast shadows. Instead, ensure that light is situated so that it shines directly down onto the worktop. You can do this by using low-voltage lights recessed directly into the underside of units or lights fitted centrally over an island.

Feature Lighting

Lighting can be a dramatic focal point in itself, for example, a striking row of pendants over a dining table, or spots that emphasize an object in the kitchen. Glass-fronted cupboards can be internally lit to show off glassware or glass shelves can be lit from above or below to draw attention to decorative items.

LEDs

LEDs (light emitting diodes) are the latest revolution in kitchen lighting, and contain a tiny chip (diode) that directly converts electricity to light. They have a life of between 50,000 and 100,000 hours and produce very little heat, making them much safer than standard bulbs. LEDs can be used to create task, mood and feature lighting. Jane Stewart, design director at Mowlem & Co says, ‘We do suggest LED plinth lighting quite often as it can create a beautiful link between the furniture and the floor.’