Lighting is the one kitchen fixture often overshadowed by other design specifications. Too many details go into the counter space, cabinetry and cooking appliances, leaving little thought for showcasing those components.

How the kitchen functions in its entirety achieves the design. The kitchen is the home’s epicenter, where people converse, cook/clean and consume. Each activity requires a specific space to cast a hint light.

Design the lighting strategy around your kitchen fixture and the four basic functions of illumination:

•  Overall
• Task
• Ambient
• Art

 Kitchen Ceiling

A light, which blends in with the ceiling without upstaging the other kitchen fixtures, reflects general lighting. For versatile luminosity, lighting on a dimmer switch accommodates all mood settings.

Over the Kitchen Sink

A fluorescent strip of lighting tucked underneath cabinets illuminates the sink and the focal point at hand.

 Above the Counter

Suspended above the counter, light pendants introduce understated drama. To save energy and achieve 500 minutes of lighting, consider kitchen fixture lights compatible with compact fluorescent lights (CFLs).

 Kitchen Fixture Maxim: No kitchen design is complete without proper lighting.