Decorating a kitchen is a highly personal affair, but one element remains worth playing by some rules: lighting. Too harsh or subtle, and a space, no matter how beautifully designed, will be lost or overexposed.
Allow Brooke Shields to convince you that under-cabinet lights are the way to go. As seen on the actor's Instagram page, the monochromatic kitchen sees gentle illumination under its shelves thanks to LED strip lighting – a timeless kitchen lighting idea.
It particularly suits the location, providing visibility for the sink and counter space, while adding a spotlight effect to Brooke's collection of cookbooks. Its thinness and discreet nature are also space-saving, making it a major win for those of us with small kitchens.
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These warm yet bright LED strips are suitable for practically any room in the home that needs some illumination (starting with inside your glass cabinets, of course).
Get a unique kitchen look with this antiquated bronze picture light, which includes a 2700K LED light source that will last for 30,000 hours.
This lamp is perfect for an all white kitchen. Its gently tapered ceramic base is finished with a matte exterior that perfectly matches the conical linen shade, creating an accent piece that will completely change the atmosphere in your kitchen.
Sconces are a beautiful alternative to under-cabinet lighting, and this stunning piece is one of my favorites. It features a pleated shade and a wood wall base to create a beautiful statement.
When integrating accent lighting into the kitchen, cordless lamps are the essential choice, offering effortless portability to illuminate different zones as needed. This specific brass design, topped with a classic white pleated shade, provides an element of utterly timeless style.
If wall lighting is more your style, this sconce offers plenty of charm. With lots of curves and organic materials, it has an almost nautical feel that never dates.
Design experts explain that kitchen lighting is crucial to a kitchen's ambiance, and as such, the goal should be to keep the space visible but inviting.
'Harsh overhead lighting or dim spaces make a kitchen feel dated and unwelcoming,' designer Nina Lichtenstein explains. 'Layered lighting is essential for a high-end look. Under-cabinet LED lighting, a statement pendant over a small island, or recessed lights create warmth and sophistication. Avoid harsh, overly cool-toned bulbs.'
While we are partial to the under-cabinet lights (these ones from Amazon are durable and affordable at under $25), there are plenty of other ways to achieve the same, glowy look.
Table lamps have gained popularity in kitchens, giving off some further illumination while adding a focal point to a countertop or island (these work especially well in larger kitchens with plenty of surface space). This all-white lamp from Wayfair is a great pick for a modern, minimalist kitchen.
Alternatively, picture lights are a chic and unexpected form of lighting, which, naturally, look fantastic above any hanging wall art.
