Rental homes
Kitchen Lighting Design for Rental homes
Place light where people work or read faces. Layer task light over ambient light and test glare from occupied positions.
Explore the ideas
Plan in this order
- Mark tasks, viewing angles and screen locations on the furniture plan before placing fittings.
- Separate regularly used tasks from the room's general lighting so each can be controlled independently.
- Test the proposed fitting and finish sample together. Glossy finishes can reflect a bright source directly into view.
Worked example
A glossy backsplash reflects the ceiling fixture into the cook’s eyes while chopping at night.
Use shielded under-cabinet task light and sample the backsplash vertically with that light switched on before selecting its sheen.
How to test it
Check the space in daylight and after dark. Stand and sit where people actually use it, and check controls from the entry.
Apply it to this space
- Layout
- Keep movable prep and pantry storage clear of appliance access and the cooking route.
- Detail
- Use freestanding carts, removable shelf liners and plug-in task lights where appropriate.
- Trade-off
- Portable additions avoid permanent changes but can reduce already tight aisle space.
- Confirm what may be attached or altered
- Measure appliance access before adding carts
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