10 Creative Kitchen Lighting Ideas: My favorite tried-and-true kitchen lighting ideas that make a differenceSienna GreyJan 20, 2026Table of Contents1. Layered Overhead and Task Lighting2. Under-Cabinet LED Strips3. Pendant Lights with Personality4. Dimmable Ceiling Spots5. Accent Lighting for Open Shelves6. Over-Sink Statement Light7. Toe-Kick Lighting8. Skylights or Solar Tubes9. Glass Cabinet Lighting10. Smart Lighting SystemsFAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEOne time, a client asked me if we could make her kitchen feel like "a sunrise in a Paris café"—without windows. I thought she was joking, but it turned into one of my favorite projects to date. It made me realize that in small kitchens, the right lighting is less about wattage and more about storytelling. Today, I’m sharing 10 kitchen lighting ideas I’ve tested over the years that can transform even the tiniest cooking space into something special.1. Layered Overhead and Task LightingInstead of relying on a single ceiling fixture, I mix soft overhead lights with precise task lights over counters and sinks. This reduces shadows and lets you adapt brightness depending on the occasion. I often plan layouts with tools like room planner so every light has a clear purpose.save pin2. Under-Cabinet LED StripsThese are lifesavers in small kitchens where wall cabinets block natural light. They’re affordable, energy-efficient, and create a clean glow on countertops. The only thing to watch is to hide wiring well—nothing spoils the magic like a dangling cord.save pin3. Pendant Lights with PersonalityI love using a pair of statement pendants over an island or peninsula. They double as focal points and conversation starters. Just mind the height—too low, and they might become a head-bumping hazard.save pin4. Dimmable Ceiling SpotsAdjustable recessed lights give you control over both mood and function. Perfect for late-night tea or an intense Sunday cook-off. The challenge? Installing them after a kitchen is finished can be tricky and sometimes pricey.save pin5. Accent Lighting for Open ShelvesA soft spotlight aimed at your open shelving can turn your spice jars into a design feature. This works best when shelf styling is intentional—you don’t want the light highlighting the old chipped mug collection.save pin6. Over-Sink Statement LightThat washing-up corner can be surprisingly charming with a unique fixture. I once added a copper pendant above a farmhouse sink, and it became the homeowner’s favorite Instagram backdrop. When working on layouts, I sometimes test options in a free floor plan creator before committing.save pin7. Toe-Kick LightingLED strips along the kitchen baseboards create a modern floating effect. They’re especially handy as night lights. The main drawback is needing a nearby outlet—plan ahead to avoid messy retrofits.save pin8. Skylights or Solar TubesIf your kitchen layout allows, bringing natural light from above is unbeatable. It changes the feel of the whole room and saves on electricity during the day. Of course, this is only doable if your space isn’t buried in the middle of an apartment block.save pin9. Glass Cabinet LightingAdding mini LEDs inside glass-front cabinets subtly showcases the contents and adds depth to the room. I’ve used this trick to make compact kitchens feel more open and airy.save pin10. Smart Lighting SystemsWi-Fi–controlled bulbs or strips let you change brightness and color with your phone. I once set up warm whites for dinner, then cool bright light for a cooking marathon—all without touching a switch. Testing different scenarios in a kitchen layout planner can save a lot of second-guessing later.save pinFAQ1. What’s the best light color for kitchens? Neutral white (around 4000K) offers clarity for cooking while still feeling warm and inviting.2. How many lumens do I need for my kitchen? Typically 70–100 lumens per square foot is recommended for task areas, according to the IES Lighting Handbook.3. Are LED lights safe for food prep? Yes. LEDs produce minimal heat and offer good color rendering, ensuring food looks appetizing.4. Can I mix warm and cool lights? Absolutely. Use warm for ambient and cool for task areas—it balances comfort and function.5. How can I make my small kitchen look bigger with lighting? Use under-cabinet lighting and reflective surfaces to bounce light around.6. Are pendant lights practical over kitchen islands? Yes, if hung high enough (about 30–36 inches above the countertop) to avoid blocking views.7. What’s the cheapest way to upgrade kitchen lighting? LED strip lights are affordable, easy to install, and highly effective.8. Is dimmable lighting worth it in kitchens? Definitely—it lets you shift from bright prep mode to soft dinner ambiance without changing fixtures.Start for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE