Where to position kitchen lights: a guide to layered lighting
In an interior design project, lighting should integrate seamlessly with the overall design, enhancing every detail. It shapes perception, establishes atmosphere and brings materials to life. Moving beyond the concept of a single light source—which inevitably creates areas of shadow and flattens the perception of volumes—the solution lies in layered lighting: a design method that arranges different light sources across multiple levels, each serving a specific purpose.
In this guide, we will explore how layered lighting can enhance the design of your kitchen.
Table of contents
The three layers of lighting
The key to a successful lighting scheme lies in managing the three layers of interior lighting: ambient (or general) lighting, task (or work) lighting and accent (or decorative) lighting. Considering them as distinct yet complementary layers is essential to ensuring that the kitchen is both functional and welcoming, while also expressing a strong sense of personality. This approach makes it possible to create different lighting scenarios, adapting the space to different times of day and the many activities of everyday life.
- Ambient lighting provides the foundation of the room's illumination. Its purpose is to deliver comfortable, diffused light. It is the first light switched on when entering the kitchen, welcoming those who enter and establishing the overall atmosphere of the space. It should be soft, glare-free and evenly distributed to prevent harsh contrasts and unwanted shadows.
- Task lighting is precise, focused and practical, designed for working areas such as the worktop, sink and cooking zone. Its purpose is to ensure maximum visibility and safety during food preparation and other kitchen activities.
- Accent lighting, finally, is the emotional layer of the design. Its purpose is to highlight architectural details, design objects or refined finishes, creating depth, visual hierarchy and points of interest.
Types of light fittings for each layer
Each layer of lighting requires specific types of light fittings, designed to meet both practical requirements and aesthetic needs.
Ambient lighting:
- Wide-beam recessed spotlights
- LED strips integrated into recessed channels or perimeter coves
- Ceiling lights with diffused illumination
- Centrally positioned pendant lights with diffused illumination
Task or work lighting:
- LED strips beneath wall units
- Narrow-beam recessed or track spotlights directed towards working areas
- Pendant lights above the island or peninsula
- Lighting integrated into the extractor hood
Accent or decorative lighting:
- Adjustable narrow-beam spotlights for highlighting artwork, walls or other features
- LED strips inside display cabinets or open compartments
- LED strips above and below kitchen cabinetry
- Wall lights
- Table or floor lamps
Choosing the style of light fittings
Once the appropriate types of light fittings have been established for each layer, the next step is to choose a style that works in perfect harmony with the kitchen. Light fittings are not merely functional elements, but genuine pieces of interior design that contribute to expressing the character and personality of the space. Their selection should be guided by visual consistency with the finishes, lines and volumes of the kitchen.
Within the home, whether lighting is designed to take centre stage through a statement piece or remain discreet and almost invisible, stylistic consistency is the key to achieving an elegant final result, carefully considered in every detail, where every element appears to be exactly where it belongs.
Positioning lights according to natural light
No lighting scheme can overlook the most important source of illumination: natural light. It is the most valuable layer of all, shaping the space throughout the day. Intelligent artificial lighting does not seek to replace it, but rather to complement it, ensuring visual comfort at all times.
A strategically positioned mirror or glass backsplash can reflect and amplify both natural and artificial light, introducing depth and dynamism into the space. Similarly, table lamps, floor globes or designer wall lights add a personal touch while creating atmospheric corners within the kitchen.
Lighting calculations
Lighting that feels natural and comfortable is based on a precise process: lighting calculation. This involves carefully assessing the quantity and quality of light required for every area of the kitchen. An accurate analysis ensures that there is always sufficient illumination, prevents eye strain and maintains an atmosphere that is both pleasant and functional.
The calculation begins by determining the amount of light required—measured in lux—for the different areas of the kitchen. Working areas require higher levels of illumination than dining areas or circulation spaces.
The characteristics of the space are then analysed, including the amount of furniture and the reflectance of different surfaces. A white wall, for example, reflects considerably more light than a dark surface, while a greater amount of furniture will have a stronger influence on the distribution of light throughout the space.
Finally, the positioning of the light sources is analysed in order to prevent unwanted shadows, direct glare and reflections on glossy surfaces. This assessment makes it possible to determine the luminous flux—measured in lumens—that the light fittings need to provide.
Conclusion
Kitchen lighting shapes the space, defines pathways, establishes visual hierarchies and, above all, creates a unique atmosphere. Through its three layers—ambient, task and accent lighting—layered lighting proves to be one of the most effective approaches for achieving the right balance between the practical requirements of everyday life and the desire for a space that feels refined, personal and aesthetically considered.
At Berloni, we believe that light is one of the principal tools for bringing the identity of a kitchen to life. A carefully considered lighting scheme enhances the quality of the materials, emphasises the purity of the design and creates the ideal setting for conviviality at every moment of the day. Book an appointment and personalise even those details that often go unnoticed.
Explore the Berloni Catalogue and find out how to create your kitchen.
