A layered approach:

1. Task lighting- recommended is a blend of recessed lighting positioned to shine down on counter space and under-cabinet lighting. Florescent tube lighting under the cabinet is very effective as it shines on the complete countertop and the backsplash without creating shadows. Also think about pendant lighting over an island and sink that is bright enough to make tasks in those areas easier.

2. Ambient lighting- this is the general overall lighting that creates a warm glow and fills in shadows to create a brighter feeling in the room. If possible, try to allow lots of daylight into your kitchen for natural ambient lighting. Add to this overhead ceiling light fixtures – track or recessed halogen lights work well.

3. Accent lighting- this is decorative lighting used to elevate the style of the room and focus on special areas. It can include pendant lights and/or drum shades or chandeliers. It may also include spot lighting for artwork or a special display. And don’t forget about puck lighting inside glass cabinets. Rule of thumb: the larger the space, the grander the accent lighting. This is where you can show your own personal style, so think about the statement you want to make, and also try to to tie it into the overall style of the rest of the home.

All images via Pinterest

Feel free to drop by our showroom to ask our knowledgeable designers about a lighting plan for your kitchen.

1. Use open shelving. Not only is it easy to access frequently used items, it also forces you to keep things neat when out in the open. It’s also great for small kitchens because it opens up the space.

2. Customize your cabinets. You can do this when you order cabinetry or you can do it yourself with existing cabinets thanks to all kinds of great organizational gadgets now available. Pull-out shelves, dividers for cookie sheets, custom recycling and garbage units, spice jar inserts and towel bars all keep things in their place and easily accessible.

3. Drawer organizers are a must. Every single utensil and kitchen do-dad has its place, and it is in a drawer organizer. Get one. Or many.

4. Use hooks. Hooks for towels, utensils, pots and just about anything else are so useful and help you avoid throwing things on the counters.

5. Use counter space wisely. Keep counters open except for frequently used items. Store cooking utensils in pretty jars near the stove, and snacks in glass containers so you can clearly see what’s there.

6. Look up. Utilize the space between your cabinets and ceiling, and on top of your refrigerator by throwing lesser-used items in baskets or pretty bins. Or if starting fresh, customize your cabinets and take them all the way to the ceiling.

7. Utilize awkward corners. Open shelving that goes all the way to the wall in a corner is a more efficient use of space than a corner cabinet (and adds interest).

8. Make better use of lower cabinet space. Open shelving below the counter is convenient for everyday items.

9. Gather appliances. Carve out a for all your small appliances to keep them together, ideally one that is handy to an outlet and behind a closed door. An appliance garage (yes, they have been updated) is fantastic for this.

10. Give cookbooks their own space. Keep recipes and cookbooks together and handy on a dedicated shelf.