Let There Be Light!
I absolutely love creating different effects with all the colors and types of lights available. We have come a long way since florescent under-cabinet lighting and the minimal ceiling fixtures that we used to see so often.
Today’s lighting options are not only beautiful, but can complement a design, enhance the space and illuminate all of the important areas at different times throughout the day and evening.
In my experience as a kitchen designer, I have found that there are three types of lighting:
General lighting starts at the ceiling and should provide good lighting for the walkways around your kitchen. It basically lights the room.
Task lighting is usually installed under your wall cabinets and lights your counter space. It illuminates the area that you are performing cooking tasks. Task lighting also highlights your backsplash and countertops.
Accent lighting is the most decorative and most exciting because it can be a focal point. For example, many of my clients choose a 
“pendant” fixture over their island. These fixtures come in all styles and provide a great decorative accent in your kitchen. They also provide needed lighting over the island. Lighting inside glass cabinets also adds effect by showcasing your wine glasses or your brand new every day dinner plates!
All of these different types of lighting work together to provide “layers” of lighting for a room. I’m a big fan of dimmer switches, whenever possible.
An important step in planning your lighting strategy is to think about where to place the switches. I’m a minimalist and I prefer as few switches as possible in the most convenient locations. When you shop for lighting fixtures, choose a specialist that has a showroom with all available options. I recommend seeing firsthand how each light source actually works. Some provide “cool” light and some provide “warm” light.
Work with your kitchen designer and your lighting specialist on a lighting plan that makes your new kitchen stand out. After all, your kitchen lighting is most likely the first light that you turn on in the morning and the last light that you turn off at night, so make it shine!
Catherine Whitney is the showroom manager and designer at South End Kitchens. She has 30 years experience in the kitchen and bath industry and works diligently with clients every step of the way. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 704-508-9505, or email Catherine at catherine@southendkitchens.com.The design studio is located in the historic Meeting Hall building at 1500 South Blvd, Suite 101-A. You can also visit South End Kitchensat www.sekdesignstudio.com.