Why Spotlights Are the Dream Kitchen Lighting Option and How to Style Them
Spotlights are one of the latest modern trends in kitchen lighting. They are functional, nice to look at, and give any room a vibrant touch just by existing. If you are looking for ways to mix up the décor in your kitchen and give it a splash of modernity, they might just be the answer to the question you didn’t know you needed to ask. This guide is here to convince you why spotlights are the dream lighting for your kitchen and give you a few pointers on style options too.
LED Bulbs are Sustainable
The first reason on the list is the sustainability factor of LED lightbulbs. They are arguably more environmentally friendly than the alternative style of bulb and are the perfect addition to any home that is eco-focused. Unlike other sustainable lighting options, LED bulbs (the most common form for spotlight products) emit light immediately instead of taking a pause to warm up, and they tend to last a lot longer too in terms of lifespan. Therefore, you get a sustainable bulb that lasts longer and is the clear winner in so many categories.
They are Versatile
There are multiple styles and size options for this style of light. Not only are you bound to find something that really suits your established style of décor, but there will definitely be a style that fits in with your aesthetic preference. You can also change the angle of the beam in certain models so you can, as the name suggests, point it in different directions depending on what you’re trying to do and what need it for.
They Are a Great Light Source
Some styles of lighting just don’t make the cut when it comes to actually performing their basic functions. Lighting up a room is what we need, but some designs are too fixated on other aspects such as how they look and bespoke designs that they forget what they are supposed to do. Spotlights are simple and elegant; you won’t find one in the shape of a golden goose, but they do exactly what they’re supposed to.
You Can Have a Dimmer
Dimmer switches can be installed right alongside the spotlights. There is not much stopping you from mixing up the stylings and having a section of spotters with a dimmer attached. They are also cost effective and therefore help you save some money on your energy bill over time. Dimmers can also be controlled by smart meters which makes them even more energy efficient and effective.
How to Install Spotlights
It is essential that before you install spotlights, your electrical system is up to date and safe. Spotlights put a different demand on a light system than regular light fittings, therefore an electrician will be the only way to fully assess the safety of the project. Hop online, search for electricians near me, and see what comes up. There are always credible options in your local area to be found when you use the search term ‘electricians near me’, and it is always easier to stay local and find services near your home. There are five key reasons why you should always use an electrician.
- They are the expert, and you probably aren’t. Even if you’ve read a few books on wiring and feel confident to give it a go, some jobs just call for professional input and this is definitely one of them.
- They will do a proper assessment to mitigate risk to other wiring and parts of the kitchen.
- An electrician is well-versed in being truthful and to the point to manage expectations.
- It leaves no room for mistakes and costly repairs as the job will be done correctly the first time around.
- It always gives a bigger peace of mind to know that the person carrying out a job knows what they’re doing.
Placement
Spotlights are typically placed on a ceiling, but there are wall varieties too. That means you can literally put them anywhere. Kitchens are the best place for this because there are lots of areas where you need specific lighting, for example, when measuring and cooking a particularly tricky dish or baked good.
Better for Low Ceilings
While this is not applicable to every home, this style is far superior for buildings with lower ceilings. Pendant shades and similar designs make a low ceiling hit differently. It makes the room feel smaller, is a danger for taller people, and generally feels dingy as you don’t get the full effect of the light because it only ends up shining in the wrong place. Avoid all of these issues by opting for the alternative.
It Opens the Door for Other Things
Because putting spotlights in is quite a big task, it opens the door to exploring other options for the electrics in the kitchen. Things like adding in a ceiling audio system, or a smart meter seems like the perfect additions for this occasion. Given that you’d be upgrading the lighting system anyway, it makes sense to explore things you could do at the same time.
Styling Ideas: Dimmer Switches
Dimmer switches, as mentioned above, are one of the most versatile styling methods for spotlight features. It adds an irreplaceable level of warmth and means you can use the lights to set the mood depending on the time of day and type of social occasion. Kitchens are social rooms. They are the heart of the home and, therefore, lots of people hang out here and spend time either eating, cooking, or generally relaxing. While cooking may benefit from a brighter environment, the relaxing side of things will enjoy a dimmed setting.
Different Colour Options
Have you ever fancied straying away from the traditional white light that most bulbs come in? Well, you can with spotlights. There are LED bulbs available in every color, and even ones that change color with the assistance of a remote control. It is something different to try, and might just add that certain something that the kitchen has been missing all along.
Spotlights In Cupboards
Cupboards are also the perfect place for spotlights. Imagine, no more fumbling around trying to switch on your phone torch to see right to the back. One simple switch or even a spotlight hooked up to a sensor when the door opens, and all your vision problems will be solved. They add a luxury element to any kitchen cupboard arrangement.
Spaced Out
One option for spotlights is to space them out at even intervals all over the ceiling. This looks neat and tidy, and suits neutral design themes and eclectic ones too plus everything in between.
Cluster Patches
Though it is never recommended to place this style of lights too close together for safety reasons, for example, to avoid causing an electrical over surge and fire, you can create smaller and therefore more concentrated zones for design and effect. There are literally hundreds of different patterns to try, depending on where and how the wiring works in your kitchen. Check in with an electrician for the safest route forward.
Spotlights are the future of homes. Whether you are a creative designer, trying to bring your home out of the dark ages, or simply a tall person trying to combat low ceilings, they have a lot to offer in a kitchen environment. Put them over the stove, or in a measuring zone, or even just space them out to fit out the whole space and enjoy.
