Assess Lighting Needs

Optimal lighting is essential to provide a safe, efficient kitchen space. Therefore you must assess the lighting needs for your new kitchen in order to design your lighting plan in conjunction with your floor plan--and not as an afterthought. The expertise of a Kitchen or Lighting Designer may be needed to develop a proper lighting plan. When visiting a local lighting showroom, always bring along your floor plan so that their lighting professionals can review and assist you with your needs. You may also link to the American Lighting Association or call 1-800-274-4484; they may also guide you to local professional help.

No matter what size or style kitchen you are designing, review the following questions to assess your lighting needs:
· What kitchen activities will be performed--cooking, eating, clean up, entertainment, homework, etc.?
· What are the vision requirements of your family (poor vision requires up to 50% more light)?
· Would I rather create a warm or cool ambiance?
· What are the colors, textures, sheens, and materials will be used and how will light be reflected off or absorbed by them?
· Do I want to accent the room size or ceiling height or camouflage it?
· What natural light source(s) are available (amount of windows and exposure to sunlight)?

Try GE's interactive Virtual Lighting Designer to see how different lighting options can change the look of your kitchen.