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Designing With Light in the Kitchen
The kitchen is primarily a work area, but it
is also a gathering place for family and friends. Lighting
that is comfortable as well as functional is required.
A large ceiling fixture, equipped with energy-efficient fluorescent
tubes will supply plenty of well-diffused general lighting
(see light sources), but it may
leave you working in your own shadow at the sink, range, and countertops. These
areas need supplemental task lighting. For example, two track lights or recessed
lights over the sink will give you the illumination you need for washing dishes
and scouring pots and pans. |
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 At the sink and range, an individual recessed
downlight, equipped with an energy-efficient compact fluorescent
tube, will provide you with adequate task lighting when installed in the ceiling or in soffits over these two busy work areas.
 Dinettes,
nooks, and island counterscan be lighted with decorative pendants or miniature chandeliers. When used with a dimmer control, these ceiling-hung fixtures will provide you with adequate task lighting for homework, hobbies, or family business and allow you to lower the light for dining or entertaining (see lighting controls).  Undercabinet lighting is ideal for countertops.
Mount as close to the front of the cabinets as possible to avoid glare
reflecting off work surfaces. Choose energy-efficient fluorescent fixtures (they generally range from 12
to 48 inches long) that cover at least two-thirds the length of the counter, or a halogen work light that suits your needs.
The patented Ambiance® Lighting System by Sea Gull Lighting is also an excellent solution for lighting any work surface. Here are some examples: Kitchen cabinets can be accentuated by placing low-voltage mini-lights over, under, or inside cabinets. Soffits and other concealed locations can also be treated effectively with this type of lighting. These inconspicuous strips of miniature incandescent and Xenon bulbs will highlight your cabinetry, while adding a warm, comfortable atmosphere to your kitchen. |
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