Lighting for a modern kitchen is an important issue that’s very relevant and deeply felt, especially when the days grow shorter, the desire to cook foods to pamper ourselves a bit grows and the shadows cast on our worktop become just as annoying as lights that are so bright they’re blinding. What’s the right balance to have effective lighting in the kitchen?  

Natural light from outside must be privileged above all other sources, right from the design phase of the house. It should come from the side in relation to the worktops. In any case, it must be complemented by artificial light, which must be clearly arranged to provide excellent visibility (through direct or accent lighting) and also ensure uniform perception of light by focusing on specific points (indirect or ambient lighting). This latter type is highly appreciated also for the gratifying sense of warmth and cosiness it brings to an environment, especially when we come home after a tiresome day during the coolest months of the year. 

Luminous back panels are certainly a useful option among the many available; they are made of glass or ceramic slabs, or may even have a magnetic panel that can be used with magnetised accessories for keeping utensils. The former are often able to provide both direct and indirect lighting. Similarly, luminous equipped rails or LED profiles – inserted in glass cabinets or bookshelves – can provide a functional solution or a certain atmosphere, depending on how they are used. 

Delve into the topic by consulting the Inspiration “Lighting the kitchen effectively”.