Kitchen Lighting

A kitchen is essentially a working area so a high level of illumination is required. Main lighting can be achieved by fluorescent strips, ceiling mounted, to give good overall general lighting. They should be fitted with a diffuser to prevent glare.

Circular tubes are available but the straight batten type is normally best for kitchens. If possible, position the tube above the sink, slightly over the front edge and parallel to it.

Allow between 8 to 10 Watt per square metre of surface to be lit. Most kitchens need only one 65W (1500mm long) tube to achieve this. If less is used, some supplementary lighting will be needed.

Concealed lighting can be used for selected areas or they can be highlighted by the use of spotlights. Downlighters can be concealed in suspended ceilings but they get hot and care must be taken to allow for this. Use about 25W per square metre of worktop to be illuminated.

Natural lighting should be made use of if at all possible.