kitchen

11 Illuminating Kitchen Lighting Ideas Homeowners Need to Try

 
 

How your kitchen is lit can affect how well your spaghetti squash is sautéed or whether your guests feel welcome when you’re sharing cocktails at the kitchen island.

The kitchen is a home’s most multifunctional space – and how this gathering area is lit can affect how well your spaghetti squash is sauteed or whether your guests feel welcome when you’re sharing cocktails at the kitchen island.

How does a homeowner accomplish both at the same time? Designer Paul de Andrade, owner of Studio Kestrel in New York City, says the best kitchen lighting designs require multiple light sources in varying types, all of which are tunable.

For example, de Andrade recommends using high-quality LED strip lights under cabinets, which illuminate the entire countertop area. He suggests lighting with a color-rendering index, or CRI, of 90+ so strawberries look bright red and salads look crisp green.

“Lower quality lighting can make your countertop look washed out and sepia colored, which makes food seem dull and unappealing,” de Andrade says.

Here are 11 similarly bright techniques interior designers and kitchen experts propose that will make any kitchen feel warm and welcoming.

Layer Those Lights

Kitchens have a lot of activity: cooking, hanging out or entertaining. That means lots of lighting in various spaces, says Jessie Brinkley, an architectural designer with Melichar Architects in Lake Forest, Illinois.

“Kitchens require a lot of functionality in addition to beauty. Since there are so many affordable options available today, we are seeing layers of lighting that offer up lots of operational flexibility," Brinkley says. "Function task lighting and decorative lighting – small recessed, under-cabinet, in-cabinet, pendant lighting – work in combination.”

Consider a Chandelier

If you want to make a style statement, add a bit of fanciness to the kitchen, says Courtney Cole, an Australian interior designer with TileCloud.

“Chandeliers are returning to kitchens, especially in more traditional or farmhouse-style spaces. If you want to give the room a luxurious touch, these will give you just that – especially when used over a dining area or kitchen island,” Cole says.

Mix Up Your Finishes

Not every light in your kitchen needs to be made from glass, says Alan Berman, president at Archetype Architecture in New York City.

“Think brass, leather, marble and artisan glass fixtures that tell a story. Mixing textures and styles creates a vibrant visual experience, making spaces feel alive and expressive with lighting as a key narrative element,” Berman says.

Try a Trend

Kitchen trends that are popular and will continue to evolve in the years ahead include biophilic or nature-inspired design as well as sustainability, says Riki Lent, senior vice president of Kalco Lighting and Allegri Crystal in New Windsor, New York. This translates to kitchens that have warmer tones, softer shapes and an increased use of renewable materials.

“There’s also a strong desire to infuse personality into interiors, so handcrafted elements that artfully infuse unique materials are becoming more important,” Lent says.

Move Past Pedestrian Pendant Lights

Pendant lighting is a homeowner’s chance to make a statement, de Andrade says. “Nowadays there are so many beautiful options, so try something sculptural or alabaster or rattan," he says. "It’s a great way to break away from the often boring and utilitarian design of a kitchen and create a space that blends seamlessly with the rest of your home.”

Don’t Be Down on Downlights

The kitchen is the heart of the home, so its lighting needs to reflect that and be bright, warm and welcoming, says Antonia Caicedo, the interior architect and design director at Jimeco Interiors in Miami Shores, Florida.

"Overly bright lighting that works well in a garage or office space may not be the best for a kitchen space. Opt for a mix of downlights and pendants to achieve the perfect combination of functional and decorative,” Caicedo says.

Dimmer May Be Better

Dimmer switches can be a kitchen’s best assets, says Ashley Macuga, principal designer at Collected Interiors in San Francisco.

“Bedtime doesn’t necessarily mean a kitchen’s work is done. The middle of the night glass of water or midnight snack is better enjoyed under the soft glow of a sink pendant light," Macuga says. "Kept on a warm dim, it mimics the natural glow of sunset, helping you see without signaling to your brain that it’s time to wake up and start the day.”

Use Lights to Show Off Your Stuff

If you have a special piece you love to serve on or maybe a great family collectible, light it up, says Gabrielle Bove, owner of Opaline Interiors Studio in Boston.

“I love to hide LED tape lighting in specialty display cabinets to highlight my clients’ dinnerware and glassware collections. These types of lights are perfect to turn on when you have company over for a dinner party and provide an element of interest,” Bove says.

Take Tech to the Next Level

Bryce Crowley is co-owner of Kitchen Solvers of La Crosse in Wisconsin, working with clients on new custom cabinetry designs. He says homeowners need to add technology to their kitchen-lighting schemes.

“The integration of smart-lighting technology allows homeowners to control brightness and color temperature via smartphone apps or voice commands, enhancing the kitchen’s versatility for different tasks and moods,” says Crowley.

Add Smaller Shelf Lamps

Many homeowners have small or open shelving on either side of their sinks, and these areas can become landing zones for junk or miscellany. Instead, add pretty pendants on either side or bring in a decorative lamp to that otherwise dead space, says Tracy Metro, a Los Angeles-based interior designer and host of interior design show "House Doctor" on Netflix. “If you have opening shelving in your kitchen, putting a small table lamp on the shelf with a special shade adds so much style to the kitchen,” Metro says.

Don’t Forget the Small Details

Everyone always thinks about what’s above our heads – what about those spaces at our feet? That’s where a homeowner with a great designer can have some fun, says Leslie Dapper, lead designer at Rumor Designs in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

“Under-cabinet lighting and toe-kick lighting for kitchens are both great ideas and easy to do yourself with things like LED light strips and rechargeable lights,” Dapper says.

Read more at USNews.com

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This Is How Much the Average Kitchen Remodel Actually Costs, According to Experts

 
 

The kitchen is the heart of the home, so it makes sense that you’d want it to look good — and that’s why it’s one of the first spots people look at remodeling when they’ve got the chance to upgrade their space.

The cost of a kitchen remodel, though, can vary wildly based on what you’re updating, and how big of a renovation you’re planning. 

Apartment Therapy spoke to six experts to figure out exactly how much a kitchen renovation or remodel might set you back, and the experts quoted ranges from $1,000 to $300,000 — keep reading to see how that cost breaks down.

 
 

What Is the Average Kitchen Remodel Cost?

On average, you can expect to spend about $45,000 for a full kitchen remodel, the experts share. That cost, of course, depends on everything from the size of your kitchen and where you live, to the type of home you have and the quality of materials you choose. Labor expenses will vary, too, based on who you hire, how many hands they’ll need, and their availability (more on that below). And, unfortunately, Mazzarini notes, “with the lingering effects of the pandemic, costs are still trending high.”

Basic Kitchen Remodel Cost

A minor remodel can cost between $1,000 to $25,000. On the lowest end, you’d be doing simpler things yourself like painting your cabinets, upgrading hardware, shopping appliance sales, and doing some labor work — like hanging drywall or doing small carpentry jobs — on your own. This price range is for the DIYers who want to have a hand in (almost) every part of the process but don’t want to tackle major things like moving plumbing, electricity, or gas lines. When you add in new countertops and upgraded flooring, you’ll head to the higher end of this range.

Midrange Kitchen Remodel Cost

A moderate remodel costs between $25,000 to $60,000. In this price range, you’ll be replacing things like countertops, flooring, appliances, and cabinets. Lighting and walls may also be on the docket for this level of renovation. The majority of the cost here will come from cabinetry and appliances. Cabinets are often considered the most expensive part of a remodel, so consider painting what’s there instead of fully replacing them to keep costs down.

High-End Kitchen Remodel Cost

A major remodel of your kitchen will range from $60,000 to $300,000. For high-end renovations, you’ll be doing things like moving around plumbing, potentially adding gas lines, or even completely demolishing the existing footprint of your kitchen and redoing it into something new. Finishes like hardware and molding may be more upscale or luxury, and appliances will likely be top-of-the-line. Here’s the chance to grab those custom countertops you’ve always wanted, with a chic backsplash to match.

Kitchen Renovation Cost Breakdown

The cost of a kitchen remodel isn’t just for the materials — you’ll also need to pay for the workers you hire along the way. 

Labor Cost

For your remodel’s labor cost, Hagood says you’ll need to account for “the fees for skilled tradespeople, such as carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and general contractors, as well as any permits and inspections required for the project.” You’ll also include the cost of any designers you hire, which Babcock says runs $65-$250 per hour. Expect for your renovation cost to split up to around 60% materials and 40% labor.

Item Cost

  • Cabinet painting — $2,000 to $7,000

  • Cabinets — $25,000 to $75,000

  • Appliances — $1,000 to $50,000

  • Countertops — $1,500 to $20,000

  • Flooring — $5,000 to $10,000

  • Hardware and faucets — $5,000 to $15,000

  • Plumbing — $2,000 to $20,000

  • Electrical — $2,000 to $20,000

  • Lighting — $50 to $20,000

  • Painting — $200 to $3,000

  • Kitchen Island — $4,500 to $7,000

As always, remember that kitchen remodels are not one-size-fits-all. Your overall cost will depend on “the extent of the renovation, including whether you’re changing the kitchen’s footprint, or just updating existing elements,” Hagood says, which will significantly raise the cost.

Read more at ApartmentTherapy.com

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5 Little Touches to Make Your Kitchen the Best Room in the House

 
 

The kitchen is the heart of a home. It's where families gather, meals are prepared and memories are made.

As such, it's important that your kitchen is not only functional but also looks and feels amazing. In this post, we'll explore five little touches that will transform your kitchen from ordinary to extraordinary.

Fresh Flowers and Greenery
One of the simplest but most effective ways to elevate your kitchen's design is with fresh flowers or greenery. A vase of colorful blooms or a potted herb on a windowsill can add a pop of color and life to your space. Not only do plants and flowers look great, but they can also purify the air and add fragrance to your kitchen.

Consider changing out your flowers or greenery with the seasons to keep your kitchen feeling fresh and updated. In the spring, bring in daffodils or tulips for a burst of color. In the summer, opt for bright sunflowers or fragrant lavender. For autumn, switch to seasonal favorites like mums or pumpkins. And during the winter months, holly or evergreen branches can add a festive touch.

Stylish Dishware
Plain white dishware is classic and timeless, but if you want to make a statement, consider investing in some colorful or patterned plates and bowls. This is an easy way to add some personality to your kitchen and show off your personal style. You can also display your best dishware on open shelving or in glass cabinets.

If you're not sure where to start looking for stylish dishware, consider checking out local thrift stores or antique shops. You may be able to find unique and one-of-a-kind pieces that will make your kitchen stand out. Many online retailers also have a wide selection of handcrafted and trendy dishware options. And don't forget to keep an eye out for sales and clearance items at your favorite home goods stores.

When searching for durable dishware, it's important to look for materials that are strong and long-lasting. Some popular options include porcelain, stoneware and bone china. These materials are known for their durability and can withstand daily use without easily chipping or breaking. Additionally, consider the type of glaze used on the dishware as this can affect its longevity.

Custom Storage Solutions
Keeping your kitchen organized is essential for both function and aesthetics. Having custom storage solutions, such as pull-out drawers and organizers, can make a huge difference in how you use your space. These solutions can be tailored during a quick kitchen remodeling project to your specific needs and can keep everything from spices to utensils within reach.

In addition to custom storage solutions, there are many creative ways to make more storage in your kitchen. Utilize vertical space by installing shelves or hanging racks for pots and pans. Use under-shelf baskets or stackable shelves to maximize cabinet space. Magnetic knife strips can free up counter space while also keeping knives easily accessible.

Consider using the inside of cabinet doors for extra storage, such as for measuring cups or cutting boards. And don't forget to make use of underutilized spaces like the top of your refrigerator or above cabinets for storing items you don't frequently use. With a little creativity, you can find storage solutions that work best for your kitchen and keep it clutter-free.

Statement Lighting
Lighting can make or break a kitchen's design. Instead of a single overhead light, consider adding a statement fixture, like a chandelier or pendant lights over the island. This can create a focal point in your kitchen and add warmth and ambiance to the space. You can also install under-cabinet lighting for added task lighting.

While statement lighting can enhance the look of your kitchen, there are some types of lighting that should be avoided. Avoid using fluorescent lights as they can create harsh and unflattering shadows. Overly bright or mismatched light bulbs can also disrupt the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. Stick to warm and soft lighting for a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Art and Decorative Objects
Artwork and decorative objects can add a personal touch and tie together your kitchen's design. A framed print or painting can fill an empty wall, while decorative objects like vases, ceramic bowls or sculptures can add dimension and texture to your space. Choose pieces that complement your kitchen's color scheme and style.

When it comes to displaying art and decorative objects in your kitchen, it's important to consider the safety of both the items and those using the space. Avoid placing fragile items near areas with high traffic or where they could easily be knocked over. Instead, opt for shelves or wall-mounted displays that are securely anchored. For larger pieces, make sure they are safely secured to the wall to prevent any accidents. Be sure to be mindful of where you place art and decor near heat sources or areas prone to moisture, as these can damage certain materials.

Making your kitchen amazing doesn't have to be a complicated or expensive task. By incorporating these five little touches, you can transform your kitchen from ordinary to extraordinary. Think about what aspects of your kitchen you want to highlight or improve and start small. Whether it's adding fresh flowers or investing in custom storage solutions, these little touches can make a big impact and create a space you'll love spending time in.

Read more at Rismedia.com

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