Choosing the Perfect Kitchen Lighting Option

Lighting is one of the most impactful elements of kitchen design. Kitchens are highly versatile areas of the home where cooking meets hosting and entertaining, and by installing purposeful lighting, you can enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your space. The right lighting options can create an inviting ambiance and improve your daily life. 

This kitchen lighting guide discusses the different lighting options available and explains how each can enhance your space. Get ready; home lighting solutions and your perfect kitchen await. 

Types of kitchen lighting

There are many different types of kitchen light fixtures available, and new styles and designs hit the market every year. Here’s an overview of the most popular lighting options you can choose from in your kitchen:

• LED kitchen lights: Installing LED lights in your kitchen is one of the best ways to brighten your space without significantly increasing your energy expenditure. These energy-efficient lighting options use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and come in various hues, sizes, and styles. 
• Pendant lights: Pendant lights have been a kitchen design staple for decades. These light fixtures hang from the ceiling and are typically used to add target lighting over kitchen islands, dinner tables, and bar tops. Like LED lights, pendant lights come in various styles, so you can find options that fit your preferences, whether you prefer a sleek, modern aesthetic or traditional ceiling lighting. 
• Spotlights: Spotlights and track lighting bars are another kitchen lighting solution that can provide focused light to a specific area or workspace. Many different types of spotlights are also available, including recessed (flush mount ceiling lights), adjustable, and fixed fixtures. 
• Under-cabinet lights: Under-cabinet lighting is a convenient and cost-effective way to install task lighting in your kitchen or highlight specific design features. Depending on the amount of space under your cabinets and the overall aesthetics of your kitchen, you can choose fixtures with ornate designs or ones that blend in.   

The Latest Kitchen Lighting Trends 2025

Kitchen lighting never stops evolving, and every year introduces new trends. In recent years, traditional fixtures have evolved to feature a mix of materials, textures, colors, and shapes. From incorporating statement pieces to swapping angular shapes for curvaceous ones, this year’s top kitchen lighting trends are sure to inspire at least a few ideas for you and your space. 

Oversized lights

Larger light fixtures, like scallop and dome-shaped pendant lights, have never been more in style. Oversized light fixtures go great over a countertop, island, or dining table, where they have room to captivate viewers and help anchor the space. 

Natural materials

Kitchen lighting trends continue to embrace sustainability and natural materials. Fixtures made from wood, rattan, or bamboo are becoming increasingly popular. These light fixtures help create warmth in a space and pair beautifully with neutral palettes or vibrant plants and flowers. 

Statement pieces

Over the last decade, kitchen lighting has become more than just functional—it’s now art. Bold chandeliers and mixed-material fixtures can be focal points, drawing attention and elevating the design of your space while still providing purposeful lighting in modern forms.

Layered lighting

Gone are the days of relying on one overhead fixture. Layered lighting combines ambient, task, and accent lighting fixtures to create a dynamic and flexible ambiance. For instance, you can install under-cabinet lighting and dimmable recessed fixtures to complement one another and create the perfect level of illumination and visual comfort throughout your entire kitchen. 

Curvaceous shapes

Flowing forms and rounded edges are becoming more common across all areas of home design, including kitchen lighting. Whether you’re fond of globe-shaped pendants or swooping floor lamps, curved shapes are a great way to soften a space and aesthetic elements that contribute to an inviting vibe overall.  

How to Choose the Perfect Lighting for Your Kitchen

Selecting the proper kitchen lighting involves balancing aesthetics, practicality, and long-term value. Here are some key factors you should consider when choosing fixtures and creating your kitchen lighting plan: 

• Personal taste: Above all else, your kitchen lighting should reflect your unique style and preferences. If you like sleek fixtures with a modern appeal, incorporate them into your plan. If you prefer rustic charm, choose a bold statement piece that reflects this. Choosing a design that aligns well with the rest of your home will make all the difference in how you feel about your kitchen after you're done.

• Budget: Establishing a budget will help you narrow your options and ensure your choices align with what you’re willing to spend. While premium lighting can be a worthwhile investment, plenty of affordable options offer style and functionality. Don't forget to account for installation costs if you need professional help.

• Functionality: Kitchen lighting serves multiple purposes, from food prep to entertaining. Evaluate your lighting needs across each zone of your kitchen: task or tech lighting for counters and workspaces, ambient lighting for overall illumination, and accent lighting for decorative purposes. Opt for adjustable or dimmable fixtures for added versatility and day-to-day customization.

• Ease of replacement: Consider the practicality of maintaining your lighting. Can you easily replace bulbs or fixtures if they wear out? Choose designs that use standard bulb sizes or easily sourced replacements to avoid future inconvenience. LED lighting is always an excellent choice if you want to prioritize long-lasting, energy-efficient illumination.

Common Kitchen Lighting Mistakes to Avoid

Overlooking the importance of proper lighting is often the number one mistake homeowners make when redesigning or renovating their kitchens. To create the perfect lighting, you’ll need to take into account a variety of factors, including the ones listed above and others, such as how often you use your kitchen for particular tasks, how much natural light your kitchen gets, and how the kitchen lighting will blend with lighting in nearby rooms (dining room, living room, etc.). 

Another common mistake homeowners make is overlighting their kitchens. Of course, you need plenty of light in your kitchen to accommodate its various uses. However, you don’t want too much of the wrong kind of light. Downlights and recessed lighting are great in moderation but can lead to making your space feel harsh when used excessively. Instead of installing rows of recessed fixtures, focus on layered lighting, providing different zones of light and temperature throughout your space. 

Illuminating Your Dream Kitchen

Excellent kitchen design starts and ends with purposeful lighting. Thoughtfully selected fixtures can transform even the most uninviting kitchen into a welcoming and practical space perfect for entertaining and preparing meals.

At Century Communities, we know how important it is to get the details right—including lighting. Our homes are designed to enhance your living space with carefully planned lighting that balances utility and aesthetics. 

Ready to find a home that fits your lifestyle? Use our Find Your Home feature to explore new construction homes across the United States and start envisioning your ideal kitchen today. 

Kitchen Lighting FAQ

What type of lighting is best for a kitchen?

Depending on your preferences and needs, various types of lighting can be a perfect addition to your kitchen. Layering different lights, such as ceiling lighting fixtures, floor lamps, and under-cabinet lighting, is the best technique for creating a structured and cohesive ambiance.

What type of lighting is best in dining areas?

If you have a dining area in your kitchen, make sure you have light focused on the table or countertop to illuminate meals. However, be careful not to overlight this area, or the space can feel corporate or clinical.

What are recessed lights?

Recessed lights, often called cans or downlights are installed into a ceiling or wall so that they sit flush with the surface. This installation gives them a low-profile appearance and modern vibe. Recessed lights can be a good choice in a variety of kitchen spaces, including over islands and countertops, on sloped ceilings, and even under cabinets.