"Let there be light," as the saying goes in Genesis, and indeed, light plays a crucial role in every aspect of design, especially in kitchens where tasks like chopping, reading labels, and plating meals demand optimal illumination. However, there's a lot of confusion surrounding how kitchen lighting operates and its connection to what Laurysen aims to achieve when designing spaces for our clients.
To clarify these misconceptions, we reached out to our team of designers to share their insights on kitchen lighting. Their goal was to distinguish fact from fiction and offer practical tips for effective kitchen lighting design. Here's what they had to say, thanks to Wael Bakr CKD (Certified Kitchen Designer), Aviva Ben-Choreen CKD, and Sara Edgerton, Design Consultant.
First and foremost, understanding the different types of indoor lighting is key. Our designers emphasize that there are essentially three categories of lighting, each serving distinct purposes:
1. **Ambient Lighting**: This provides a room with a general, ambient glow.
2. **Task Lighting**: Brightens specific areas where tasks are performed, ensuring clarity and precision.
3. **Accent Lighting**: Adds decorative touches by highlighting particular zones or architectural details.
“Task lighting is central to our approach,†states Aviva Ben-Choreen. She explains that task lighting typically begins around the sink since it’s the focal point of kitchen activity. By strategically placing under-cabinet lights over countertops and islands, designers ensure that these high-use areas receive ample illumination. While accent lighting within cabinets or along edges adds aesthetic appeal, its role is secondary compared to task lighting, which ensures functionality.
Natural light is another critical factor. Although sunlight streaming through windows enhances visibility and aesthetics during daylight hours, reliance solely on natural light isn't advisable. As Wael Bakr notes, "In colder regions like Ottawa, cooking often happens after sunset." Therefore, depending exclusively on natural light is impractical. Moreover, no matter how large your windows are, they cannot replace strategically positioned task lights.
Color and space also influence lighting decisions. In smaller kitchens, lighting becomes even more significant because adequate illumination can create an illusion of spaciousness. According to Bakr, our brains process colors and lighting in ways that affect spatial perception. Bright environments tend to feel expansive, whereas dimmer ones appear confined. Consequently, designers must evaluate each kitchen's unique characteristics, particularly its size, to determine appropriate lighting solutions.
Measuring light accurately is another challenge. While experienced designers rely heavily on intuition, advanced tools exist to verify whether planned lighting meets requirements. Sara Edgerton mentions that alongside high-tech software used by architects, traditional methods involving lighting charts remain relevant. These resources detail the brightness levels of various light sources and how materials absorb or reflect them. Calculating precise quantities involves complex equations, yet achieving balance between technical accuracy and creative judgment defines the essence of lighting design.
Ultimately, integrating both scientific principles and artistic flair creates functional yet visually appealing kitchens. Lighting stands as a vital component of successful kitchen planning. Neglecting this aspect could compromise both usability and attractiveness, issues easily mitigated with proper attention. At minimum, we hope this discussion inspires you to prioritize lighting considerations when envisioning your ideal kitchen. After all, no one wants to cook in the dark!"
Barn Door
barn door, also known as a sliding barn door, is a type of door that is mounted on a track and slides horizontally to open and close. Originally used in barns and farmhouses, barn doors have gained popularity as a design element in homes and commercial spaces for their rustic charm and space-saving features. Here are some key features and benefits of barn doors:
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Aesthetic appeal: Barn doors are known for their rustic and charming appearance. They often feature wooden panels or planks with visible grain patterns, giving them a distinct character and adding warmth to a space. Barn doors can complement a variety of interior design styles, from farmhouse and industrial to contemporary and eclectic.
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Space-saving design: Barn doors slide along a track mounted on the wall, eliminating the need for floor space required by swinging doors. This makes them an excellent choice for areas where space is limited or where a traditional swinging door might be impractical.
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Versatility in application: Barn doors can be used in various settings within a home or commercial space. They are commonly used as interior doors for bedrooms, bathrooms, closets, or pantries. Additionally, they can serve as room dividers, allowing for flexible use of open-concept spaces.
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Easy operation: Barn doors glide smoothly along a track, making them easy to operate with minimal effort. They can be equipped with handles or pulls for convenient opening and closing.
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Customizable design options: Barn doors offer a range of design options and customization. They can be made from different types of wood, such as reclaimed barn wood, knotty pine, or rustic oak, allowing for variations in color, texture, and grain. Additionally, they can be stained, painted, or left natural to match the desired aesthetic.
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Privacy and noise control: Barn doors can provide privacy and noise control in areas where it is needed, such as bedrooms or home offices. When closed, they create a barrier that reduces sound transmission and visually separates spaces.
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Focal point and visual interest: Barn doors can serve as a focal point in a room, adding visual interest and becoming a statement piece of decor. They can be customized with unique hardware, such as decorative straps, handles, or rollers, to enhance their visual appeal.
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