You want to escape poorly lit kitchens of the past. Building your home from scratch means the perfect opportunity to do it right the first time. Once you've decided upon the kitchen layout and cabinetry, it's time to work the lights into the build. To make the most of your new kitchen lighting, start with these four tips. 

1. Properly Set Your Task Lighting

Since most of your kitchen activity will center around the sink, stove, and countertops, you want to shine a lot of directed light in these areas. Placement of task lighting can make or break the functionality of your kitchen. Most task lighting falls into one or more of the following categories:

• Ceiling spotlights. Recessed spotlights in the ceiling should focus their beams on the edges of your counters. In this way, you don't block the light as you work. They illuminate without glare, and you can readily see the contents of your drawers. Be sure to include these every four feet or so for best coverage.
• Sink and stove lights. Lights above the sink(s) and stove should be bright enough to eliminate shadows without blazing into your eyes. Lights built into the range hood work well, as does flood lighting over the sink if you won't have a cabinet overhead under which to install a task light fixture. Remember, avoid using fluorescent lights, especially as task lighting. You may not perceive the inherent flickering, but it takes a toll on your eyes over time.
• Under-cabinet lighting. Strip LED lights on dimmers placed under counters rivals sliced bread for best invention ever. However, to avoid glare on your shiny new backsplash and eyes, be sure to mount them on the edge closest to you. 

2. Plan for Enough Ambient Light

Ambient light is more generalized and usually comes from ceiling fixtures. Flush-mounted lights, pendants, track lighting and chandeliers work well to fill the kitchen with warm, unfocused light. Depending on your cabinet arrangements, you may like uplighting installed along the tops of your cupboards to wash the ceiling with ambient light.

3. Add Decorative Accent Lights

Accent lights, such as wall sconces, add a touch of elegance to your new kitchen. They also can offer a soft glow for times when you aren't in the kitchen but might make trips to the fridge for evening snacks.

4. Bring in as Much Natural Light as Possible

Insufficient daylight in the kitchen makes it feel dreary. The more natural light you invite into the kitchen, the less you'll need electrical illumination during the day. Skylights and large windows will increase your comfort while preparing daytime meals.

Building a new home is as exciting as it is challenging. Our experienced designers at Northern Lighting would be happy to work with you on your kitchen ideas as you design your new home. We offer a vast stock of lighting options that will create the perfect lightscape across your kitchen. Let Northern Lighting help you choose the right fixtures for your whole house, too. Right now, you can take advantage of our Dot Sale and save up to 20 percent off selected items. Come see us today!