One of the most important aspects to consider during a kitchen design is the study of the lightning.

First of all, it is important to know that there are two main types of light:

• Natural light

• Artificial light

The first one is the outside light, i.e. sunlight.

The second one, as the word itself says is artificial. This means that it emanates from electrical appliances. It is characterized by different intensities and colours: Examples are warm light, which gives the room a cozier and a more relaxing atmosphere, and cold light, which is more neutral. The aim of the artificial light is to illuminate where the natural light doesn’t reach.

In turn, it is divided into 2 categories:

– General light: ensures homogeneous lighting through the positioning of several lighting elements (wall or ceiling).

– Mood light: must illuminate the room in such a way as to create a hospitable and warm atmosphere.

In addition, artificial lighting can be divided into the following categories:

• Architectural lights: these are lighting devices whose function is to illuminate rooms without highlighting the light structure
• Technical lights: these are light sources positioned at strategic points that are useful for giving greater visibility to certain areas
• Decorative lights: these have an aesthetic function. Their purpose is not to illuminate but to fill the space

To correctly and adequately illuminate the kitchen, it is necessary to use various sources of a different nature according to the function they are to perform. For the working area (hob, sink and worktop) it is advisable to use technical lights such as LED bars and spotlights. For the surrounding areas, other types of light such as pendant lamps or floor lamps can also be used.

VAMA’s tips for effectively planning the lighting of a kitchen/living area:

– Divide the light sources according to the functions and needs of the different areas of the kitchen;

– Provide under-cabinet lights in the presence of wall units or living areas with worktops underneath;

– Provide plenty of sockets for powering electrical appliances and devices;

– Provide direct and indirect light sources to create a general lighting atmosphere, ideal for cooking in complete freedom even in the absence of daylight (spotlights on the ceiling, LED strips above the columns);

– Provide a technical suspension, in the absence of false ceilings, and recessed lights or external wall lights to illuminate the island (if there is a hob or sink);

– Provide decorative pendant lights to fill the space

In conclusion, it is important to position the light sources strategically so as to obtain an optimal view in every space of the kitchen.