With the creation of bigger and bigger kitchens, lighting the spaces above and below the cabinets has become more important than ever. Available in slim, energy-efficient designs such as miniature track lights or low-voltage linear systems, under- and overcabinet lighting quickly and easily lights up counter tops and accents ceilings. Halogens offer consumers a whiter, more accentuating light. Used undercabinet, it compliments  the look of granite and marble countertops.

Every kitchen is individual and task lighting here depends on cabinet layout and computer location. Too much light can wash out the screen. Consider a fluorescent task light for the computer. Be sure to cover the key board and work materials.Halogen undercabinet lighting offers another option. If space is limited a small halogen desk lamp might work well, putting the light where you need it.

No matter how many lights you install in your kitchen, the experts recommend circuiting them separately so the lighting is zoned. This allows you to create ambience by mixing the various lights you turn on. Lights above the cabinets should be soft and low-voltage. The light over the sink should have its own switch. Same with the lights over the island and those over counters.

Kitchen Lighting:  

Layout requirements are affected by the size and complexity of the area. This tells the designer how many lights are needed and where they should be placed for the perfect setup. A small kitchen might only need a central 2 x 4 fluorescent cloud fixture and some under cabinet lighting. A larger kitchen may need recessed fixtures, lighting over the sink, breakfast table, kitchen island, and pantry. Task and accent lighting also become more important with bigger areas to cover. Taller kitchen ceilings require brighter light bulbs. Cove lighting above kitchen cabinets provides an interesting touch to the space.
If the kitchen opens into a living or dining area the lighting should be able to integrate with the adjacent spaces. Light dimmers and lighting controls allow for a smooth transition between different rooms with contiguous spaces.

Also, the color of kitchen counter top surfaces should be taken into account. Dark surfaces, such as dark marble, might need additional illumination.

Lighting for the kitchen normally consists of three layers:

1. General lighting - overall illumination.
2. Task lighting - helps perform specific tasks.
3. Accent lighting - add drama, visual interest, part of the décor.