A kitchen can be the heart of many homes, where a multitude of activities occur. Generally a higher level of light is required, for safety reasons as much as anything else. With electrical equipment, hot surfaces and gas appliances being used, it is essential that the lighting levels in the Kitchen have an even distribution.

When designing the lighting layout consider the kitchen split into three areas; the ceiling, work surfaces and mood lighting.

Ceiling Lights - this is the main source for the general lighting levels. Depending on ceiling heights, the source of the lighting will either be mounted ON the ceiling (Flush, Semi Flush or Spotlights) or IN the ceiling (Recessed Spotlights). Another consideration when choosing your ceiling lights is the amount of time you spend in the Kitchen. If you spend long periods in the Kitchen, then its worth looking into the use of energy efficient fittings that use fluorescent / low energy lamps. The lamps can cost more to replace and may take a few moments to "warm up" but generally then run cooler, last a lot longer and use less power.

Under Cupboard Lighting - this has a dual purpose, one, for subdued back ground lighting, when the ceiling lights are off and also for task lighting, general food preparation etc..

Light levels here can be important, so please take into consideration the colour of work tops, black granite will absorb more light than a paler wood finish. Also it is more common to use fluorescent or more popularly now, LED lighting, because they generate less heat than halogen lighting and if food is stored in the cupboards above this can be an issue.

Mood Lighting - this is used for more decorative purposes. Having lighting above your cupboards shinning up the walls can give a dramatic effect and a completely different feel to a homes most important room. Putting small LED's in the floor or in the plinth of the base units can also change how the room is viewed.

Having a combination of lighting sources in a Kitchen is proving very popular, whether its a cosy dinner party or preparing for a major function, the lighting of this room is very important and when the average spend on a new Kitchen can be anything from £5000 to £30,000 then just take a little time in planning the lighting to show off the best features of your investment.