When designing a kitchen, we often put most of our attention on appliances and storage. But lighting is just as essential! Good kitchen lighting not only makes it easier to prep ingredients, cook meals, brew coffee, or grab a late-night snack, it also enhances the beauty of your countertops, backsplash, and cabinet finishes. Keep reading to find out how to choose the best light fixtures to brighten and style your kitchen.

1. Assess Your Current Kitchen Lighting

Start by evaluating the lighting setup you already have. Are there light sources above key spots like your kitchen island, sink, or main cooking area? Do the fixture styles and bulb color temperatures match your preferences? If you're planning to add new fixtures, check if there are existing ceiling electrical boxes ready for installation. If not, you might need a professional electrician to install and wire the fixtures safely.

2. Pinpoint Areas That Need More Light

Next, identify spots in your kitchen that feel too dark. While natural light from a window can help during the day, nighttime is a different story. Dark areas often appear under upper cabinets, where shadows can make food prep tricky. Once you know where the lighting gaps are, you’ll be ready to choose the right types of fixtures to fill them.

3. Plan for Three (or More) Light Sources

The secret to a well-lit kitchen is layering different types of lighting. Aim for at least three light sources: a mix of overhead, task, and accent lighting to cover all your kitchen activities and create a cozy atmosphere. Here's a breakdown of options:

Kitchen Island Lighting

The island is a hub for cooking, casual meals, and even decorating, so it deserves special attention. Pendant lights are a popular choice to highlight the island’s length, while track lighting lets you adjust and direct the light exactly where you need it. Both options often come with dimming features to set the perfect mood at any time of day.

Shop Kitchen Island Lighting | Shop Track Lighting

Over-the-Sink Lighting

Washing dishes or rinsing veggies is much easier with proper lighting. Pendant lights work wonderfully above the sink because they’re compact yet bright, fitting nicely between upper cabinets. Adjustable hanging lengths make it easy to customize the fixture’s height for your space.

Shop Pendant Lights

Under-Cabinet Lighting

Once you install under-cabinet lighting, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. These fixtures come in a variety of color temperatures, from warm, cozy glows to bright, clean LED light. Some even feature fun multicolor settings. Choose between plug-in or battery-powered options. Plus, if you have space above your upper cabinets, you can install lights there too for a subtle glow.

Learn How to Install Under-Cabinet Lighting | Shop Under-Cabinet Lighting

Overhead Ceiling Lighting

Overhead lighting ensures your entire kitchen gets an even spread of brightness. Choose from:

• Flush Mount & Semi-Flush Mount Lights: Great for different ceiling heights, these fixtures come in all kinds of shapes and styles. Flush mounts sit tight against the ceiling, while semi-flush mounts hang slightly lower for rooms with higher ceilings.

• Recessed Lights: These minimalist, built-in lights are perfect for a clean, modern look and pair well with pendant lighting.

• Ceiling Fans with Lights: Ideal for large kitchens, these combine lighting and air circulation in one fixture.

Shop Flush Mount & Semi-Flush Mount Lights | Shop Recessed Lights | Shop Ceiling Fans With Lights

Wall Lighting

Wall sconces aren't just for living rooms! They can add beautiful accent or task lighting in your kitchen. Install them above the sink instead of a pendant light, or frame your upper cabinets with a pair of sconces. You could even install a few along the backsplash for a decorative glow.

Shop Wall Sconces

Countertop Lighting

At countertop level, plug-in nightlights or mini table lamps are charming ways to add accent lighting. They fit easily into kitchen outlets or cozy up a corner of your counter, and come in a variety of fun, stylish designs.